The trending skincare ingredient is considered beauty’s best love molecule.

Derived from sugarcane, glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) that is known to help with breakouts and other skincare concerns.

While it is like citric acid, tartaric acid and lactic acid, what makes it unique is that it has a lighter molecule weight. This ensures that it is more effective and easily penetrates your skin.

Benefits of glycolic acid

So, below are a few ways in which glycolic acid can benefit your skin.

• Exfoliation

Glycolic acid removes the uppermost layer of your skin, as it breaks down bonds that hold dead cells together. The cell breaking boosts the renewal of cells, which will leave your skin bright and clean.

• Anti-ageing effects

The active smoothing ingredient is so small that it penetrates deep in your skin, which stimulates cellular activity from the insides to brighten and tone your skin. Glycolic acid also reduces wrinkles by promoting cell regeneration and getting rid of excess dead cells.

• Anti-acne

If you suffer from frequent outbreaks, then add glycolic acid to your skincare routine. This ingredient is known to fight against skin irritation and acne issues by unclogging the blockages of dead skin cells. It is an effective chemical ingredient that also fades any acne scars, leaving your skin soft and clean.

• Helps retain moisture

Glycolic acid also affects the outer skin layer, which will retain the moisture in your skin instead of drying it out. This is important for acne-prone people because many anti-acne agents tend to dry out the skin.

• Promotes collagen formation

Since glycolic acid penetrates deep into the skin, it promotes collagen production. This makes skin feel firmer and reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, leaving your skin looking even-toned and radiant.

How to use glycolic acid

From face washes and lotion to serums and peels, glycolic acid is available in several forms.

Many experts recommend starting small by using a glycolic acid cleanser to see if it suits your skin. However, you can start big if recommended by your dermatologist. Additionally, you don’t need multiple glycolic acid products. Use only one like a cleanser for a small effect or a peel for something stronger.

Also, always be aware of any side effects like itching or burning that you might face.

Time to make your skin happy and smooth with glycolic acid.