What is glycolic acid?
There are many myths surrounding the benefits of using glycolic acid and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Both of these ingredients are commonly used in products to exfoliate skin. However, in order to get the most out of these products, you need to understand how they work and what they can do for your skin. In this article we cover everything you need to know about their uses and potential side effects.
Glycolic acid is a naturally-derived AHA that helps to exfoliate the top layer of skin. Similar to the beta hydroxy acid in salicylic acid, glycolic acid is a derivative of sugar cane. It is also known as malic acid due to its chemical structure. The main advantage of glycolic acid over other AHAs is that it doesn’t cause irritation. Because glycolic acid is a weak acid, it may cause some mild skin irritation when used on inflamed or blemished skin. However, once the skin is properly cleansed, glycolic acid has the ability to gently remove even the most stubborn makeup and dirt. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness, dark spots, and pustules.
What is ascorbic acid (vitamin C)?
Vitamin C is a very powerful antioxidant that is also used in serums and moisturizers to boost skin hydration and repair. Its ability to boost collagen production makes it essential for anti-aging products, especially those that contain retinol. Ascorbic acid is found naturally in fruits, vegetables, and certain herbs.
Can you use glycolic acid with Vitamin C?
Yes! Since these ingredients are non-toxic, there are no limitations regarding their use. You can use glycolic acid and vitamin C together as part of your routine or use them separately. When you use vitamin C alongside glycolic acid, you’re creating an AHA/hydration serum. Because vitamin C boosts collagen production, it helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C is also a very powerful anti-aging ingredient and can help to reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Benefits of glycolic acid
– Exfoliates the top layer of skin to unclog pores and remove buildup
– Can be used with mild, chemical-free cleansers
– Can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
– Has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness, pustules, and dark spots
– Can be used to treat acne, rosacea, and acne scars
– Can be used to treat acne, acne scars, and rosacea
– Can help to promote clearer skin by boosting the production of collagen and elastin
– Can help to improve skin tone, texture, and tone
– Anti-aging properties that can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots
– Can promote healthier skin by helping to build collagen and repair skin damage
– Can help to reduce acne and acne scars by promoting healthy skin growth
– Can help to improve skin tone and texture by reducing hyperpigmentation
Benefits of ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
– Boosts collagen production to treat damaged skin
– Promotes healthy skin growth by increasing collagen and elastin production
– Reduces the appearance of wrinkles
– Is an anti-aging ingredient that can help to boost collagen production
– Can help to reduce hyperpigmentation by reducing dark spots
– Is a very powerful antioxidant that can help to fight against harmful free radicals
– Is an effective acne treatment due to its ability to unclog pores and promote healthy skin growth
– Is an effective antioxidant that can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots
– Is an effective treatment for acne due to its ability to treat acne, reduce wrinkles and wrinkles, and boost collagen and elastin production
– Is an effective treatment for acne due to its ability to treat acne, reduce wrinkles and wrinkles, and boost collagen and elastin production
Which product should you use?
In order to get the most out of glycolic acid and vitamin C, you should use a chemical-free, non-foaming cleanser. Look for cleansers that are rich in salicylates and exfoliating. You can use these products together as part of your routine or use one at a time. Alternatively, if you have sensitive skin, you can use a gradual-use product that only lightly exfoliates skin.
Just a note on safety
Both glycolic acid and ascorbic acid are non-toxic and suitable for all skin types. However, if you have sensitive skin, it’s recommended to use a product that lightly exfoliates skin. It’s also important to note that results are not guaranteed. Glycolic acid and vitamin C work best when used alongside a balanced skincare routine and application. In order to get the most out of these products, you should aim to use them twice a week for 30 minutes. It’s recommended that you follow up with a gentle moisturizer and sunscreen. Another important thing to keep in mind is that these products are not a substitute for sunscreen. In order to protect your skin, you should always wear sunscreen everyday and limit your time in the sun. Keep in mind that every individual has unique skin type, so results may vary. You may also experience skin irritation while using these products.
Conclusion
Glycolic acid is a mild AHA that exfoliates the top layer of skin to unclog pores and remove buildup. Ascorbic acid is a powerful antioxidant that can boost collagen production, treat acne and acne scars, reduce wrinkles and dark spots, and promote healthier, glowing skin. Both of these ingredients are non-toxic and suitable for all skin types. However, if you have sensitive skin, you can use a product that lightly exfoliates skin. Another important thing to keep in mind is that these products are not a substitute for sunscreen. These ingredients are powerful, but you need to use them properly in order to see results. They are not a substitute for sunscreen, and the results are not guaranteed.
FAQ
What not to mix glycolic acid with?
It’s important to avoid mixing glycolic acid with certain other skincare ingredients to prevent skin irritation, increased sensitivity, or reduced efficacy of the products. Some ingredients you should not mix with glycolic acid include:
a. Retinol or retinoids: Mixing these two ingredients can cause redness, irritation, and excessive skin peeling.
b. Other AHAs and BHAs: Combining glycolic acid with other exfoliating acids (e.g., salicylic acid, lactic acid) can lead to over-exfoliation and skin irritation.
c. Vitamin C: While both glycolic acid and vitamin C have beneficial effects on the skin, using them together can cause irritation and diminish their effectiveness.
To avoid any adverse reactions, use these ingredients separately or at different times of the day (e.g., glycolic acid in the evening and vitamin C in the morning).
Is it OK to use glycolic acid every day?
The frequency of glycolic acid usage depends on your skin type, sensitivity, and the concentration of glycolic acid in the product you’re using. For most people, using glycolic acid 2-3 times per week is sufficient. Overuse can lead to skin irritation, redness, and dryness. If you have sensitive skin or are new to glycolic acid, start by using it once a week and gradually increase the frequency as your skin adjusts.
Should I moisturize my skin after glycolic acid?
Yes, it’s essential to moisturize your skin after using glycolic acid. As an exfoliating agent, glycolic acid can be drying to the skin. Applying a moisturizer after using glycolic acid helps replenish the skin’s moisture barrier and soothe any potential irritation. Choose a moisturizer suitable for your skin type, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen during the day, as glycolic acid can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.
Why is glycolic acid darkening my skin?
Glycolic acid itself does not darken the skin. However, it can cause temporary darkening of the skin due to irritation, especially if overused or combined with other exfoliating ingredients. This darkening is usually caused by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) – a natural response to inflammation in the skin.
To minimize the risk of skin darkening, follow these tips:
a. Start with a low concentration of glycolic acid and gradually increase it as your skin adjusts.
b. Do not use glycolic acid too frequently or in combination with other exfoliants.
c. Always wear sunscreen during the day to protect your skin from sun damage.
