Glycolic Acid
TYPE OF INGREDIENT
Chemical exfoliant
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Serums, exfoliating products
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF GLYCOLIC ACID?
Glycolic acid is a gentle chemical exfoliant that loosens connections between dead skin cells. It stimulates collagen production and is clinically proven to improve the appearance of photodamaged skin, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps smoothen skin texture and even out pigmentation.
WHAT IS GLYCOLIC ACID?
Glycolic acid is a water-soluble alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). AHAs are a class of naturally occurring organic acids derived from fruit and dairy products. Glycolic acid is the smallest and most extensively used of the AHAs.
IS GLYCOLIC ACID SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?
Glycolic acid at high concentrations is associated with irritation; it should be used cautiously in those with sensitive skin types.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Sources:
Narda M, Trullas C, Brown A, Piquero-Casals J, Granger C, Fabbrocini G. Glycolic acid adjusted to pH 4 stimulates collagen production and epidermal renewal without affecting levels of proinflammatory TNF-alpha in human skin explants. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021 Feb;20(2):513-521. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13570. Epub 2020 Jul 24. Fabbrocini G, De Padova MP, Tosti A. Glycolic acid In: Tosti A, Grimes PE, De Padova MP, eds. Color Atlas of Chemical Peels. Springer, Berlin: Heidelberg; 2012:9‐16.
La Roche-Posay Glycolic B5 Serum
