Glycolic acid: beauty treatment for the skin
One of the characteristics that makes glycolic acid so popular is its exfoliating action that manages to act on the skin texture making it smooth, free of imperfections and radiant even after the very first uses.
There are already several cosmetics containing glycolic acid on the market, but given the growing demand, face and body peels are increasing more and more.
Before diving into the discussion of glycolic acid, watch this video to learn more about sunspots.
Glycolic acid: what is it?
Glycolic acid is a molecule with exfoliating and lightening properties, also known as hydroxyacetic acid, belonging to the group of well-known fruit acids.
Obtained mostly from natural sources, in particular from fruit, sugar cane and sugar beet, glycolic acid is also produced by synthesis.
Its use in cosmetics is constantly evolving and more and more brands are choosing it for the formulations of their products.
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The properties of glycolic acid
As we said earlier, the two main properties of glycolic acid are exfoliating and lightening.
Often the creams that are used to fight dark spots or sun spots are based on glycolic acid which is a powerful depigmenting agent.Furthermore, the molecules of this acid are used in products such as scrubs and chemical peels, because they are able to renew the skin by acting on the most superficial layer of the epidermis and accelerating the renewal of cells.
Thanks to its particular chemical structure, glycolic acid is also easily absorbable by the body through the skin, which explains why it acts well and quickly.
Glycolic acid in cosmetics
There are two main uses of glycolic acid and can be differentiated into dermo-cosmetics and aesthetic medicine. In the first case, cosmetic products contain a much lower percentage of glycolic acid than products used in the medical field: this is the main difference between two uses.
In cosmetics and dermatology, glycolic acid creams are used for the treatment of:
- Acne
- Keratosis / hyperkeratosis
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Scarring outcomes of acne
- Rings under the eyes
- Oily skin
- Prevent the onset of skin spots due to excessive exposure to UV rays
- Prevent the onset of age-related spots
- Psoriasis
- Skin dryness
For the treatment of acne, psoriasis, acne scarring and keratosis, the lightening and exfoliating creams are formulated with a concentration of glycolic acid ranging from 10 to 15%.
When the concentration is less than 10%, glycolic acid is generally used to prepare moisturizing creams, as it restores their natural softness and elasticity to dehydrated and dry skin.
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Glycolic acid in aesthetic medicine
In aesthetic medicine, glycolic acid creams are often required to treat:
- Chloasma, melasma and freckles
- Skin aging
- Senile freckles
- Withered skin
- Superficial wrinkles
- Stretch marks
In all these cases it is necessary to have a medical prescription and most of the time the application of the product must be carried out by competent personnel.
This is because, as mentioned, the concentrations of glycolic acid in the creams used in aesthetic medicine are much higher than the previous ones.
Some creams are prepared with glycolic acid at a concentration higher than 50% and some skin types could react with attacks of itching, burning, irritation; this explains why they need to be applied by specialized medical personnel in order to avoid complications and avoid the onset of counterproductive, unsightly, or worse still, dangerous to health end results.
Main methods of application
Cosmetics based on glycolic acid are generally applied once a day, for a period of time that varies until the desired results are achieved.
If you start using a glycolic acid cream, you need to apply it directly to clean, dry skin after gently cleansing.
The suggestion we give you is to apply the product with your fingertips, gently massaging the area until completely absorbed.
In any case, always respect the recommended doses, without exceeding to avoid excessive thinning of the skin that would be inevitable with prolonged and uncontrolled use.
As for the creams intended for use in aesthetic medicine, the applications cannot be daily due to the high concentration of glycolic acid contained in them. In any case, the doctor will provide all the necessary information in this regard.
Remember to avoid sun exposure for 24-48 hours after professional treatment with glycolic acid lightening creams.
What results can you expect?
A regular and constant use of creams with glycolic acid gives hydration and softness to the skin, which appears smooth, smooth, with a homogeneous and extremely luminous complexion.
Glycolic acid creams, thanks to their ability to renew the skin surface by eliminating dead cells and promoting regeneration, give the skin a brighter and more uniform appearance, since the skin is smoothed and hydrated at the same time.
Warning: do not be in a hurry! The results will be seen after about 15 days from the first applications.
Glycolic acid: undesirable effects
The glycolic acid peeling, given its lightening and exfoliating properties, can cause very serious side effects if applied badly on the skin. The most common side effects can be mainly two: redness and irritation.
The applications of glycolic acid-based products, especially professional ones made in aesthetic clinics, can give rise to an unpleasant perception of burning, which however tends to vanish after a few minutes or half an hour: the perceived tingling depends on the concentration of the ingredient. active in the cream.
Unfortunately, even with the glycolic acid peeling, you can have serious allergic reactions, especially if you are already at risk. The advice is to always talk to your doctor.
Finally, it is generally advisable to prefer fragrance-free lightening and exfoliating cosmetic products, which are the main culprits for allergies on the skin.
Frequently asked questions about glycolic acid
Are all glycolic acid creams the same?
No, every cosmetic, even if it shares the glycolic acid-based formulation with others, is suitable for a specific purpose: acne, skin aging, blemishes etc ... It is important to choose the one that suits your needs in order not to damage the skin. If in doubt, ask your doctor or dermatologist for advice.
Can I apply glycolic acid during the day?
The best time to apply glycolic acid-based products is in the evening, for two reasons: in this way the skin will have the whole night to absorb the cream well and regenerate; moreover, often cosmetics that contain glycolic acid do not go well with sunlight, which is why it is ideal before going to sleep.
Why does the skin turn red after applying the cream?
Glycolic acid stimulates cell regeneration, so seeing some redness is completely normal and usually disappears within a few minutes. However, if the area where you applied the product does not return to a normal color, or if you feel an intense itch, contact your doctor.
What should I do after a professional glycolic acid treatment?
The best thing to do is to let your skin breathe as much as possible. Avoid wearing makeup (if possible) and applying any other products not prescribed by your doctor for post-treatment. Also and especially avoid exposing yourself to direct sun for the first 5 days, after this time, always apply a cream with sunscreen to the area treated with glycolic acid.
Further recommendations
If you have just undergone a glycolic acid-based peel treatment, there are a number of other precautions to follow. Drink plenty of water and eat a healthy diet to rehydrate and keep your body in shape; avoid smoking and do not steam or saunas; touches the treated area as little as possible.
