What is Glycolic Acid?
The smallest AHA molecule, allowing deep penetration. Derived from sugar cane, it exfoliates dead skin cells, improves texture, and boosts radiance. The most studied and potent AHA.
✅Key Benefits
- ✓Exfoliates dead skin cells
- ✓Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- ✓Fades hyperpigmentation and melasma
- ✓Improves skin texture and smoothness
- ✓Unclogs pores
- ✓Boosts product absorption
- ✓Increases collagen production
🎯Best For
Sun damageTexture issuesHyperpigmentationAnti-agingDull skin
📋How to Use
Use 1-3x per week (PM only). Start with 5-7%, work up to 10%. Apply to clean, dry skin, wait 10-20 min before next product. Always use SPF 30+ next morning. Can tingle - normal. Rinse off peels/masks after recommended time.
⚗️RECOMMENDED CONCENTRATION: 5-7% (daily use), 8-10% (2-3x week), 30-70% (professional peels)
⚠️Avoid Mixing With
- ✕Retinoids (same time)
- ✕Benzoyl Peroxide
- ✕Vitamin C (timing)
- ✕Other AHAs/BHAs
💚Pairs Well With
- ✓Hyaluronic Acid
- ✓Niacinamide (after)
- ✓Ceramides
- ✓Peptides (pH consideration)
🚫Avoid If
- ⚠Extremely sensitive skin
- ⚠Active rosacea
- ⚠Sunburned skin
- ⚠Using retinoids (same night)
🔬Scientific Evidence
Over 300 studies. FDA-approved for photoaging. Proven to increase epidermal and dermal thickness by 15-25%. Van Scott & Yu (1984) pioneered AHA research. Reduces melanin by inhibiting tyrosinase.
⚡Important Warnings
- !Increases sun sensitivity - SPF mandatory
- !Can cause irritation, redness, peeling
- !Not recommended for darker skin tones (PIH risk)
- !Avoid before waxing or procedures
- !Do not over-exfoliate (2-3x week max)
💡Fun Facts
- ★Smallest AHA = deepest penetration
- ★Cleopatra's milk baths contained lactic acid (AHA)
- ★Professional peels use 50-70% concentration
- ★Takes 4-6 weeks to see visible results