The Power Of Glycolic Acid In Skincare

What is glycolic acid? 

Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that's naturally occurring in sugarcane, grapes, pineapple, and other fruits. It's one of the most popular AHAs used in skincare formulations because it's gentle, efficient, and has multiple benefits. Glycolic acid breaks up the bonds between dead skin cells and, dissolving the glue that holds them to the skin. This process then allows new, healthy skin cells to come to the surface and helps to improve the texture and tone of the skin. 

Glycolic acid is a multitasking ingredient that all skin types can benefit from. For example, those with oily or acne-prone skin will find that glycolic acid can help to unclog the pores and reduce oiliness. However, if you have dry or sensitive skin, it can be a gentle exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells without causing irritation. Whatever the skin type, glycolic acid can be a great addition to your anti-ageing regimen, as it helps improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness. 

How to use glycolic acid in skincare? 

When starting to incorporate glycolic acid into your daily skincare routine – the same as is recommended with any other product or ingredient – it's important to start with a low concentration and build up gradually. Most commonly, you'll find glycolic acid in cleansers, toners, serums, masks, peels, and similar products. The best product to start with is considered a glycolic acid cleanser, which you can try using once a day at first. If your skin can take it, you can consider incorporating a serum or toner with a higher concentration. 

You can also try a peel or mask – once or twice per week – but make sure you don't overdo it. Too much exfoliation can cause irritation, plus you need to use it correctly according to your skin type. 

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, it's best to use glycolic acid in the morning to help keep oil production under control throughout the day. If you have dry or sensitive skin, best to use it in the evenings. 

Other important things to keep in mind: 

• wear sunscreen: always wear sunscreen when using glycolic acid skincare products. Like all AHAs, glycolic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. You wouldn't want to undo all the good your glycolic acid has done, nor would want to end up sunburned. 

• allow your skin time to adjust: as mentioned already before, it's important to introduce glycolic acid into your skincare routine gradually. Keep an eye on how your skin reacts to it, and if all is fine, only then you can start using it more often or use other products with glycolic acid in them. 

• be careful with product mixing: avoid using topical retinoids and glycolic acid together. Don't use other products that are exfoliating the skin (like, salicylic acid) together with glycolic acid. If in doubt, it's best to consult with a dermatologist before making any changes in your skincare routine. 

• be patient: skincare isn't an overnight process, it takes time to start feeling and seeing results. Your skin might feel a bit rough after the first few attempts of using glycolic acid. This is normal and means that it's working. Unless your skin is irritated, keep using it, and you'll slowly start seeing a smoother and more healthy skin. 

Glycolic acid in UniZXC:COM:s products 

This product is an advanced solution for smoother and brighter looking skin. Our gentle exfoliating solution is designed to remove skin build-up and promote the appearance of a more even skin tone. By applying it a few times a week in the evenings to a clean and dry skin, your skin will appear smoother and brighter with every use. 

Oeur product is Moisturising Day Cream and you can combine it with our Sensitive Oil-to-Milk Cleanser for an even better result. As well as remember to always use Sunscreen afterwards to protect your skin from sun exposure.