Science & Skincare

If you’ve been following me for a long time, you’ll know that glycolic acid is one of my favourite ingredients.

When it came to picking an ingredient for letter G, the brainstorming didn’t take long. There are still so many people who are confused about this acid.

Today, I’m going to attempt to create a cheat sheet for you. This way, you can come back here to decide whether or not glycolic acid belongs in your skincare routine.

What type of ingredient is glycolic acid?

It is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid or AHA for short.

Glycolic acid is actually the most common type of AHA. It’s made from a widely available plant, sugar cane.

Tweet

In skincare AHA’s are used to, as one study put it; ‘reduce the thickness of hyperkeratotic stratum corneum by reducing corneocyte cohesion at lower levels of the stratum corneum’.

In more simple terms, this means it exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells by loosening the bonds between them.

This means they have many benefits.

Benefits of glycolic acid

We know it’s a powerful exfoliant, which means your skin will almost instantly look smoother and brighter.

However, a lesser known benefit of glycolic acid, is that it can speed up cell turnover. This is why it is useful in anti-aging skincare.

Side effects

Glycolic acid works so well because it is a small molecule. This means it can penetrate the skin deeply.

This property, of glycolic acid, also means it can cause skin sensitivity.

In fact, this study from 2009, found that using glycolic acid can result in increased sensitivity of human skin to solar simulated radiation. They measured skin redness to determine that increase.

This means that, although glycolic acid possess many benefits, there is a risk that your skin will become more sensitive after you use it.

How often can you use it?

If you are new to using chemical exfoliation start with once a week.

Once you feel comfortable with using it, you can increase usage to three times a week. Never use it everyday.

Product recommendations

Glow Tonic Pixi

• alcohol-free
• silicon-free
• sulfate-free
• paraben-free
• EU-allergen-free
• reef-safe
• fungal-acne safe

Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Paula’s Choice

• alcohol-free
• silicon-free
• fragrance-free
• sulfate-free
• paraben-free
• oil-free
• EU-allergen-free
• reef-safe

Good Genes Glycolic Acid Treatment Sunday Riley

• sulfate-free
• paraben-free
• reef-free

Honeymoon Glow AHA Resurfacing Night Serum Farmacy

• silicon-free
• sulfate-free
• paraben-free
• reef-safe
• fungal-acne safe

Silver Skin Saviour Omorovicza

• silicon-free
• sulfate-free
• paraben-free
• reef-safe
• fungal-acne safe

References

Van Scott EJ, Yu RJ. Alpha hydroxy acids: procedures for use in clinical practice. Cutis. 1989 Mar;43(3):222-228.

Thomas, J. R., Dixon, T. K., & Bhattacharyya, T. K. (2013). Effects of topicals on the aging skin process. Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics, 21(1), 55-60.

Kornhauser, A., Wei, R. R., Yamaguchi, Y., Coelho, S. G., Kaidbey, K., Barton, C., … & Hearing, V. J. (2009). The effects of topically applied glycolic acid and salicylic acid on ultraviolet radiation-induced erythema, DNA damage and sunburn cell formation in human skin. Journal of dermatological science, 55(1), 10-17.

• Is a Skincare Fridge Worth It?
  In recent years, skincare fridges have become a trending addition to many beauty enthusiasts’ routines. These compact refrigerators, specifically designed to store skincare products, are marketed as a way to extend the shelf life of certain cosmetics and provide a refreshing and soothing experience when applying products. However, the question remains: are skincare fridges worth… Read more: Is a Skincare Fridge Worth It?
• Drunk Elephant Bronzing Drops Review
  Rating: ★★★★☆ Drunk Elephant’s Bronzing Drops, B-Goldi Bright, are a game-changer for anyone seeking that sun-kissed, radiant complexion without the harmful effects of sun exposure. As a loyal fan of the brand, I was eager to try these drops, and they did not disappoint. Product Review: Drunk Elephant Bronzing Drops Skin Types: All skin types… Read more: Drunk Elephant Bronzing Drops Review
• The Best Beauty Advent Calendars of 2023
  It’s that magical time of year again, and we’re not just talking about the holiday season. The countdown to Christmas is made even more exciting with the arrival of beauty advent calendars. These delightful treasures are a perfect way to pamper yourself or a loved one as each day unfolds. In this post, we’re going… Read more: The Best Beauty Advent Calendars of 2023
• Sustainable Palm Oil: The Beauty Dilemma
  Palm oil has established itself as a ubiquitous and indispensable ingredient in the beauty industry,finding its way into an array of cosmetic and personal care products.  It’s widespread use can be attributed to several key characteristics that make it a valuable ingredientfor beauty formulations. It serves as a natural emulsifier, facilitating the blending of diversecomponents in… Read more: Sustainable Palm Oil: The Beauty Dilemma
• What Are Ice Rollers and When Should You Use Them?
  In the world of skincare and beauty, new trends and tools are constantly emerging. One such tool that has gained popularity in recent years is the ice roller. If you’re curious about what ice rollers are and when to use them, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we’ll explore the world… Read more: What Are Ice Rollers and When Should You Use Them?