Glycolic acid is a common alpha hydroxy acid that is derived naturally from sugar cane, but can also be synthetically made in a laboratory from chemical reagents. Glycolic acid is commonly used in skin-care products and treatments as a chemical peeling agent. Glycolic acid is generally safe, as long as it is used in 10 percent or less solutions for at-home use, or otherwise used by a dermatologist in higher solutions, according to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommendations. When used appropriately, glycolic acid can provide several benefits for the skin.
Wrinkles
One of the main uses for glycolic acid is for chemical peels. More specifically, chemical peels to lessen the appearance of wrinkles. When applied to the skin, glycolic acid dissolves the bonds that hold dead skin cells to the outer surface of your skin. By dissolving these bonds, glycolic acid accelerates the natural skin sloughing process, revealing smoother skin cells beneath. When applied to areas with fine lines or mild wrinkles, the revealed smoother skin can lessen the appearance of the wrinkles.
Blemishes
Glycolic acid peels may also be used for common blemishes, such as photoaging (age spots) and areas of hyperpigmentation on the skin. Many blemishes are caused by an excess presence of melanin on a specific area of the skin. Melanin is the substance that gives your skin its pigment. Melanin issues are usually present on the outer layers of the skin. As glycolic acid loosens the outer layer of skin, it helps remove the excess melanin, resulting in a more normal looking skin tone once the skin has shed. Several treatments may be needed for full results to be seen, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Acne
Glycolic acid can also be used to treat and prevent acne. According to the Mayo Clinic, when glycolic acid is applied directly to the skin, it can remove dead skin cells and help unplug pores. Acne is created through the combining of dead skin cells and sebum in the follicles of your skin. By removing dead skin cells from the face, you reduce the amount of material available to create acne plugs, helping prevent acne from forming.
