Glycolic Acid Facial Lotions
Glycolic acid lotions are among some of the most popular facial products used today. Glycolic acid, along with citric, lactic and tartaric is an alpha hydroxy acid and extracted from sugar cane for use in cosmetics. The thought of putting an acid on your skin may be a little worrying but there’s no need to worry as it’s quite safe and beneficial. Glycolic acid is used in a range of products including exfoliating agents, acne preparations and chemical peels. It can be bought in over the counter products and in prescription only preparations where a higher concentration is used. It can help to clear up whiteheads and blackheads for those suffering from acne, reduce lines and wrinkles, help to diminish dark or discolored patches and leave skin smooth and younger looking.
That’s quite a range of benefits so how exactly does glycolic acid accomplish all this?
One of the advantages of alpha hydroxy acids is that they are very small molecules. This means that once placed on the surface of the skin the molecules can work their way through the epidermis to the dermis below. Dead skin cells are attached by bonds in this layer and the acid can reach these bonds, break them thus allowing the dead cells to be easily removed. Once the dead cells are sloughed away a layer of new cells is exposed which looks healthier and smoother. Using a glycolic acid lotion daily will also help to keep the skin looking radiant as it helps to promote healthy skin growth.
Is glycolic acid lotion useful for acne sufferers?
For those with acne a glycolic facial lotion can be very helpful. Its exfoliating properties are excellent for cleaning the pores of dead cells so that the sebum is not trapped in the pores and provides a fertile ground for acne bacteria to multiply.
Are glycolic acid products safe to use?
Glycolic acid is one of the mildest of the alpha hydroxy acids and well tolerated by most people at concentrations up to 10%. if you have sensitive skin you may experience some irritation so it may be a good idea to use it every other day until you are sure that your skin is not reacting ot it. Above this you should only use it under a dermatologist’s care. Some medications can make your skin more sensitive so talk to your dermatologist or physician before use. These types of products can also increase your skin’s sensitivity for the sun so always use a sun screen after using any alpha hydroxy acid preparation.
Conclusion
Glycolic acid facial lotions are excellent for exfoliating the skin, especially for those with acne, to leave a smoother, younger looking skin. They are mild and unlikely to cause any side effects apart from some temporary irritation and redness in those with sensitive skin.
You might be interested in these products:
Salicylic Acid 20% Gel Peel, 30ml (Professional)The outside layer of your skin is covered in oil, and being oil soluble, the Salicylic acid is able to penetrate this outer layer.
Salicylic... Read More >
Salicylic Acid 20% Gel Peel, 30ml (Professional)The outside layer of your skin is covered in oil, and being oil soluble, the Salicylic acid is able to penetrate this outer layer.
Salicylic... Read More >
Salicylic Acid 20% Gel Peel, 30ml (Professional)The outside layer of your skin is covered in oil, and being oil soluble, the Salicylic acid is able to penetrate this outer layer.
Salicylic... Read More >
Glycolic Acid 35% Gel Peel, 30ml (Professional)Glycolic Acid is a superficial peeling agent that is made from sugar cane. It is often considered the most active and beneficial of the Alpha-Hydro... Read More >
Glycolic Acid 35% Gel Peel, 30ml (Professional)Glycolic Acid is a superficial peeling agent that is made from sugar cane. It is often considered the most active and beneficial of the Alpha-Hydro... Read More >