Beauty

Glycolic acid: everything you need to know

If you've never heard ofglycolic acid before, it's high time you did! It's the star acid of chemical exfoliation It's the star acid of chemical exfoliation (or peeling), and the perfect replacement for the small grains found in many facial scrubs, which tend to be a little too aggressive for the skin. At Oh My Cream, we're big fans ofglycolic acid , which can really make a difference to the skin: tighter pores, a more even complexion, softer skin, visible reduction in pigmentation spots, etc. You too can benefit from glycolic acid peel into your beauty routine.

What is glycolic acid?

Glycolic acid is a naturally-occurring fruit acid belonging to the alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) family, a group of acids widely used in cosmetics for their exfoliating properties. It has a low molecular weight. In other words, it has the ability to penetrate deep into the skin, making it all the more effective and powerful.

What are the benefits of glycolic acid?

A molecule with powerful exfoliating power, glycolic acid "nibbles" at dead cells on the surface of the epidermis and slightly below. It helps to :

Boost radiance for an immediate "new skin" effect.
Unifies the complexion by reducing pigmentation spots.
Smooth fine lines and improve firmness.
Unclog pores and prevent imperfections.

Particularly recommended for treating pigmentation spotspigmentation spots, blotchy complexions and to get rid of blackheads and other imperfectionsGlycolic acid also promotes cell renewal and the synthesis of collagen and elastin. Multi-active, glycolic acid is an essential ingredient in any anti-aging beauty routine.

How do I use glycolic acid?

Choose a suitable product (serum, lotion, mask) with a concentration of between 5 and 10% to start with.
Apply in the evening to clean, dry skin.
Add a moisturizing cream to limit the risk of irritation.
Use SPF 50 sun protection during the day, as it can sensitize the skin to the sun.
Gradually increase the frequency, depending on your skin's tolerance.

Glycolic acid can be found in many different types of beauty products: it's easily found in exfoliating lotions and very commonly in glycolic acid peels. It can also be found in targeted skin care products, such as night care products designed to boost skin radiance or eliminate old imperfections.

Why and how to perform a glycolic acid peel?

When we speak of a peel, we mean a chemical exfoliation based on fruit acids. The most common peel is the glycolic acid peel. A glycolic acid peel exfoliates dead skin cells to promote cell regeneration, resulting in clearer, smoother, more even-toned skin.

There are different degrees of peel power, more or less deep, depending on the concentration of glycolic acid (but also other exfoliating active ingredients such as retinol or salicylic acid). There are both gentle peels with 5% glycolic acid and more concentrated peels with 15% glycolic acid.

So, if you have sensitive skin or have never used this type of exfoliant before, it's best to turn to gentle peels. Conversely, if you're used to using exfoliating products on your face, you can easily use more concentrated peels.

Obviously, the more concentrated the peel, the more frequently it should be used. Never use a glycolic acid peel more than twice a week (unless it's very gentle), as this can sensitize your skin.

Finally, as with any exfoliating product, and to avoid it being counter-productive, we prefer to use it in the evening to limit any risk of photosensitization. We also recommend that you always use sun protection as a complement.

Our favorite glycolic acid products

The Good Genes Sunday Riley, a powerfully formulated multi-function serum that acts as a skin perfector to diminish residual marks, smooth fine lines, plump and boost radiance.
Le Liquid Peelfoliant Daily Exfoliator Dermalogica,

a peel with a powerful blend of acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, phytic acid, tranexamic acid, salicylic acid and gluconolacone) and enzymes, to smooth the appearance of fine lines, visibly minimize pores and even out skin tone.

Le Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator Goop Beauty, this exfoliating treatment combines mechanical and chemical exfoliation to instantly smooth out skin irregularities, even out the complexion and give the skin a maximum glow!
Le Glycolactic Skin Renewal Mask Ren Skincare, a cocktail of fruit acids (including glycolic acid) for virtually instant skin renewal! Use this mask once or twice a week, and leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing off.
The 15% Glycolic Overnight Glow Peeling Discs Goop Beauty, cotton discs soaked in a glycolic acid (15%) and hyaluronic acid solution to exfoliate, refine skin texture and brighten the complexion.

Is glycolic acid suitable for all skin types?

Glycolic acid is particularly suitable for normal to combination and/or oily skin with imperfections. On the other hand, it is not recommended for highly reactive skin or in the case of aggressive dermatological treatments.

For normal to combination skin, it is ideal for illuminating the complexion and refining texture.
For oily and blemish-prone skin, it helps regulate excess sebum and purify pores.
For sensitive skin, use with caution, starting with a low concentration (5% max.) and spacing out applications.

What are the contraindications to using glycolic acid?

As with any exfoliating active ingredient, redness can occur with a glycolic acid peel, especially if the peel is highly concentrated in acid. Similarly, the application of a glycolic acid peel may cause a slight tingling sensation. This is perfectly normal! However, if you experience intense tingling or a burning sensation, your skin is probably not tolerating glycolic acid. Don't panic, just rinse your product off immediately with clean water and switch to less concentrated products or those based on another exfoliating active ingredient, such as BHA.

Glycolic acid and the sun don't mix... Glycolic acid is a photo-sensitizing active ingredient. It is therefore advisable to apply glycolic acid products in the evening, and to wear sun protection in the morning. As a general rule, do not perform this type of peel if you are going to be exposed to the sun for any length of time. In other words, glycolic acid should be avoided during the summer vacations, and reserved for the autumn!

What's the difference between glycolic acid and salicylic acid?

Glycolic acid (AHA) exfoliates the skin's surface and is ideal for radiance and blemishes. Salicylic acid (BHA) penetrates pores to treat imperfections and excess sebum. The two can be combined for a purifying, radiance-enhancing effect. Find out all our advice on salicylic acid in our article dedicated to this powerful anti-imperfection active ingredient.

Do you have a question about the right body routine? Write to us at contact@ohmycream.com, our beauty coaches will be delighted to help. You can also book an appointment via this link link for an online consultation to speak directly with one of our experts and carry out a skin diagnosis.

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