Glycolic Acid

What is it?

Glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (or AHA) that’s derived from sugar cane. It joins other acids you might recognize, such as lactic acid (derived from sour milk and purportedly a favorite of Cleopatra’s), tartaric acid (from grapes), and citric acid – which, you might guess, comes from citrus fruits.

But it’s unique, of the AHAs, glycolic is the simplest in structure and the smallest, it has the lowest molecular weight. That small molecular weight means it’s easy for it to penetrate your skin and be super effective.

Benefits for your skin?

When it comes to glycolic acid benefits, the list is long. First and foremost, this is an exfoliant. It helps shed dead skin cells and reveal the newer, brighter layers underneath by acting on the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin).

But because glycolic acid is so small, it can get deeper into your skin too, where it does some serious work. Glycolic acid stimulates fibroblasts in the dermis to produce increased amounts of collagen. By stimulating collagen production, it helps skin feel firmer and minimises fine lines and wrinkles.

How to use in your skincare routine?

As with any exfoliant, it’s best to start small if you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritation. We recommend initially opting for a cleanser which will allow your skin to acclimatise first, rather than diving straight into a leave-on glycolic product if you are unsure whether your skin can tolerate it. Try one that pairs glycolic with hydrating ingredients, like hyaluronic acid.