Glycolic acid: what it does and how to use it

Glycolic acid is gaining popularity for its powerful exfoliating action and ability to renew skin cells. This active ingredient belongs to the family of alpha hydroxy acids, commonly known as AHAs. In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to know about it, how to use it, what precautions we should take to avoid damaging our skin, and where we can find it.

What is glycolic acid and what is it used for?

Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) obtained mainly from sugar cane and is well known for its use in skincare, especially in exfoliating products or chemical peels.

So, what does glycolic acid do? The main role this active ingredient plays in the skin is exfoliation and cell renewal. It works by dissolving the bonds that hold cells together, including the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. This exfoliating action of glycolic acid helps to remove them. What will we notice in our skin?

Benefits of glycolic acid

• More radiance and a more even tone.
• A more refined texture.
• A reduction in skin imperfections, including spots and blackheads.
• It also stimulates collagen production, improving firmness and softening fine lines.

How to use glycolic acid in your skincare routine

Although it is an active ingredient that is well tolerated by most skin types, especially more resilient skin, we should keep a few tips in mind so that our skin accepts it well.

• Start with low concentrations and increase gradually; do not begin straight away with the highest concentration product. A 3-5% formula would be a good place to start, increasing progressively.
• Use it in your evening routine, not only because during the day we are exposed to the sun and it can damage unprotected skin, but also because this is when the skin renews itself; by applying glycolic acid, we give that renewal an extra boost.
• Sun protection: As mentioned above, to stop the sun from damaging unprotected skin, you should apply sunscreen every morning if you want to see satisfying results and, above all, if you do not want your skin to be harmed by this.
• How often should I use it? Frequency, just like concentration, should be increased gradually. Ideally, start by using it 3 times a week at first, that is, every other day, and when you see that your skin tolerates this active ingredient well, you can use it every night, depending on the rest of the products in your routine.

Best glycolic acid options for acne

There are many formulas on the market with high or low concentrations, combined with other active ingredients that enhance its renewing effect and help with blemishes, such as salicylic acid. We can also find it in different formats: serums, creams, toners and even masks.

One example available on our website is Peeling Cleanance Comedomed de Avene, a cream with glycolic acid that not only improves acne and blemishes, but also stimulates cell renewal thanks to its keratolytic action, exfoliating the skin and helping to improve the small post-inflammatory acne marks left behind.

Choosing one product or another will depend on what you want to achieve, your skin type, or even the other products in your routine, although ideally you should use those that work in synergy.

That is why, if you have any questions, we recommend writing to our pharmacy team so that we can advise you personally.