Glycolic acid is an ingredient used in skin care products. Derived from sugar cane, it acts as a defoliating agent that helps treat acne, aging and other facial conditions. It is also know as an acid peel or a peel cleanser. It is used to reduce acne scars, combat ageing, and normal facial hygiene.
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is categorized as a fruit acid but is really a substance from cane. The acidic properties cleanse the skin chemically by effectively peeling the dead cells and loosened particles from the face which is then rinsed away with water. There are industrial uses for the chemical to remove rust and grease. Obviously, it is a potent concoction.
This gives rise to the main side affect of glycolic acid which is it can leave the skin prone to sun damage. Once the face is clean, the rays can better penetrate causing damage to newly formed skin cells. This side effect is easily neutralized by a good sunscreen and, of course, avoiding direct sunshine, especially on the face and most especially just after the cleansing. It is now common knowledge that direct sunlight is dangerous and can lead to massive skin damage and possibly even death.
Oddly enough, there are no serious side effects from using AHA even though it is a powerful agent. In fact, the concentration levels have to be kept higher to achieve desired results. If the concentration is lower than some 40% in the cream, it tends to have zero effect. Most products maintain 50% or higher concentration of total AHA in the topical solution. That will do the job of exfoliating and cleansing properly. Excessive use can lead to redness, crusting and flaking but if used with care, residuals are minimized. A mild burning or stinging sensation is sometimes reported with its use, but those reports are not considered significant any may be attributed to excessive application.
Glycolic acid is a natural substance that is strongly recommended by dermatologist and experts. When used in conjunction with good skin hygiene habits, it is a useful product to control ageing, acne and other conditions. Always consult a doctor or expert before applying any chemical to the body. The market is full of moisturizers and some of the best belong to the category of glycolic acid moisturizers. In fact in the market you should look at all sorts of glycolic acid products
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