Glycolic Acid: The Holy Grail of Skin Care Products

You can watch my full video on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/zIjbZVvBLx4

In this post, I just want to go over some benefits of glycolic acid and what exactly it is. I will also give you some skin care product options that you could possibly incorporate into your skincare routine. It's very important to note that this is just an informative post and that you should always consult your dermatologist before using any products that you are unsure of using.

So, let's discuss what glycolic acid is.

Glycolic Acid gently removes the outermost layer of dead cells from the skin, revealing lighter, brighter, fresher skin. Products that contain Glycolic Acid are often used to treat scarring, skin discoloration and signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles.

Glycolic acid is the smallest molecule in the alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) family—and due to its small size, it penetrates the skin cells easier. As an AHA, glycolic acid naturally exfoliates the skin by removing dead skin cells and allows new, radiant skin cells to grow in place. An interesting fact that I learned from doing some research is, it's derived from sugarcane.

It also contributes to the growth of collagen, which is responsible for skin's elasticity. Your skin's elasticity deteriorates with age.

Now, this is super important...be sure to use a sunscreen while using alpha hydroxy acid products. Alpha hydroxy acids can also cause mild skin irritation, redness, swelling, itching, and skin discoloration. Facial peels, lotions, and creams with a concentration greater than 10% should only be used under the supervision of a dermatologist.

Also, keep in mind that you should use these products intermittently. For the cleanser in particular, replace your regular cleanser 1-2 times per week for dry to combination skin, and 2-3 times per week for combination and oily skin. Then you can gradually build up your skin's tolerance to glycolic acid and use the products everyday. It really depends on your skin type. Everyone has different skin so be aware of that.

Here are some different products that you can try and incorporate into your skincare routine. However, these are just suggestions and you should do your research and try whatever products that you feel comfortable putting on your skin.

Facial Cleansers:

1) Boscia's Detoxifying Black Charcoal Cleanser: $30 for 5 oz.

2) Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser Daily Foaming Wash ($38) for 4 oz.

3) Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser ($16) for 6 oz

Facial Toners:

1) Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner $18 for 8 fl oz

2) SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner $76 for 5.4 oz

3) Reviva Labs Glycolic Acid Toner ( $13)

Body Moisturizers:

1) Epicuren Glycolic Lotion Skin Peel 5% 2oz for $26.50

2) Passion Naturals 6% AHA Serum with Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, (30ml) for $18

3) Donell AHA 20 Face and Body Moisturizer for $27