Glycolic acid is alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane. It has become increasingly popular for the skin due to its effective exfoliation and other skincare benefits. It is a water-soluble acid from the AHA family. It has the smallest molecular size of the AHAs, allowing it to penetrate the skin thoroughly. This characteristic makes it especially useful for exfoliation and skin rejuvenation. Not only this, but it has several other benefits for the skin especially. Besides, it provides multiple skin benefits such as:
- Effective exfoliation
- Improves texture
- Enhances hydration
- Unclogs pores
- Reduces hyperpigmentation
- Prevents signs of ageing
- Encourages product absorption
Understanding Glycolic Acid Benefits
Understanding the role of any product before incorporating it into your skincare routine is essential. Because it will help you know the whether it is beneficial for the desired concerns or not. Also, it will help you know that which product will positively react to your skin and which can cause harm. So, it is recommended, not to trust blindly on any product or any treatment which is meant to be done specially on your skin. So, glycolic acid takes charge of multiple responsibilities such as:
- Exfoliation
Glycolic acid has an exfoliating nature. It penetrates deep in to the skin and breaks the associations between the dead skin cells. So that they easily cast off while promoting the growth of new cells. It makes the skin soft, smooth and clear.
- Brightening Effect
Glycolic acid promotes cell turnover and exfoliates dead skin cells, resulting in a brighter, more radiant complexion. With the passage of time, it reduces the signs of aging and promotes a brightened, natural looking appearance.
- Improved texture
It works to soothe the skin effectively. The exfoliation power is a plus. It gently exfoliates challenging regions on the cheeks, elbows, knees, and other areas, leaving behind softer, smoother skin. This will work to improve skin texture, reduce acne and clogged pores providing a clearer and even skin tone.
- Role of collagen
It promotes collagen production in the skin and deals with several issues of the skin. It makes the skin firm and elastic. It also strengthens your bones and connective tissues. As you age, your skin produces less collagen. Overexposure to the sun also destroys collagen. Daily use of glycolic acid can assist in preventing collagen degradation.
Understanding its Drawbacks and Precautions:
Despite its several benefits, it has some of the drawbacks as well. It can cause irritation to your skin when applied in excess. This irritation may lead to itching, redness and burning. Those who have sensitive skin should use low concentrations of it.
Due to its exfoliation properties, it can make your skin thin. In this way your skin will have the greater risk of sun damage. So, in order to protect your skin from any harm, use sunscreen regularly while applying glycolic acid in your daily routine because it will prevent the harmful ingredients to react undesirably.
It is necessary to understand that glycolic acid serums, creams and other products may react negatively when used with specific skin care products or procedures such as retinoids and facial peels. Try not to use it with any other exfoliating agent, such as salicylic acid, because it can harm your skin.
Furthermore, misuse or inappropriate application of glycolic acid can impair the skin's natural barrier function, resulting in dryness, flakiness, and increased susceptibility to other skin conditions such as eczema or rosacea.
Using Glycolic Acid on daily basis:
If you are using glycolic acid in a right way, it can provide multiple benefits to your skin.
There are numerous glycolic acid products in Pakistan, such as creams, serums and many more. But it would help if you carefully choose the right product for your skin. Those who are new or have sensitive skin should try with a lower concentration of it. The tolerant skin types can bear it in excess. For this purpose, you should try La Skin AHA & BHA Serum. It contains glycolic acid that exfoliates the skin from within. It develops the new and fresh skin cells to give your skin a soft and hydrated finish.
- Frequency of use: Finding your balance
Every product needs time to work on your skin. There are various skin types and every product reacts differently. Same is the case with glycolic acid. Start with less quantity and gradually increase the use and try it daily. However, overuse can cause severe irritation and make your skin sensitive. Besides, if you have sensitive skin, use it occasionally. Note the response of your skin to it and then start using it continuously.
- Layering with other skincare ingredients
Before using glycolic acid, use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt or makeup. For this purpose, you should choose La Skin Foaming Face Wash, which contains glycolic acid to cleanse your skin gently. Put on a toner first before using the product containing glycolic acid.
Then apply glycolic acid and let in penetrate in to the skin before apply any other product. End your skincare on a moisturizer to keep it hydrated and protect the natural barrier. The end, don’t forget to use sunscreen while using glycolic acid. Because of its exfoliating nature, it can damage your skin and make your skin sensitive.
You should be aware of your skin condition before using glycolic acid and after using it. So that your skincare can be adjusted accordingly.
Conclusion:
Hence, glycolic acid is one of the best ingredients for the skin, if used according to your skin type. It works to minimize fine lines, and other signs of aging like wrinkles. It improves the overall texture of your skin. In Pakistan, many glycolic acid creams and serums are low in price and easily affordable. Choosing the appropriate concentration and frequency of administration is critical for obtaining its advantages without irritating. Consistent use is the only key to a refreshed, healthy skin. Remember to wear sunscreen during the day for proper skin protection and to avoid sun damage.
