Glycolic acid is a water-soluble α-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane. It is one of the most famous and the most extensively used α-hydroxy acids in the skin care industry.
Glycolic acid works by accelerating the renewal of cells. It helps dissolve the binder that holds skin cells together to make dead skin cells fall off more quickly than they naturally would.
In addition, glycolic acid stimulates the skin to produce more collagen. Collagen is the protein that makes the skin firm, plump and elastic (collagen is also the protein that can strengthen bones and connective tissues). The production of collagen naturally slows with age, and the sun exposure can also damage it, but the regular use of glycolic acid can help prevent this kind of decomposition of collagen.
Effects of glycolic acid uses skin care:
Glycolic acid is a very popular treatment because it has many benefits for the skin. It is often used in anti-aging products for its effective skin renewal property. It helps smooth lines and wrinkles and improves the texture of your skin. Glycolic acid skin care is a common application to moisten the skin and strengthen the hydration.
Not only is it an anti-aging treatment, glycolic acid can also help protect the skin form the sun. It is also usually used to eliminate and lighten slight excessive hyperpigmentation. Regular use of glycolic acid can help brighten the skin, and it is the exfoliating characteristic that makes it an effective precautionary measure to prevent ingrown hair.