Made from sugar cane, glycolic acid is the simplest and most effective member of the chemical family referred to as Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA). For centuries, AHAs derived from plants, fruits, milk, and wine have been used as moisturizers and skin fresheners. Put simply, Glycolic Acid speeds up the skin renewal process.
It is the only AHA which is able to penetrate through the cell walls by virtue of its small molecular size. Once inside the cell, it stimulates the skin to make new, healthier collagen and elastin fibers in the deeper dermis, improving sun damage and wrinkling. Glycolic Acid also weakens the “glue” holding dead cells on the skin’s surface. When these cells dissolve, smoother, softer skin is revealed. AHAs also help to unclog pores and thus decrease the tendency for acne to develop.
Glycolic Acid is one of the most effective substances to use in the treatments of many other skin conditions including white-heads, blackheads, pustules, age spots and age-thickened skin. Studies have demonstrated that AHA products can be used in specific skin care programs to combat:
- Acne
- Dry skin
- Sun damaged skin
- Blotchy pigmentation
- Fine wrinkles
The most effective program consists of daily treatment with a general glycolic acid facial cleanser for 2 to 3 weeks prior to a glycolic acid peel at a higher strength. It is best to perform a series of peels, typically at 1-week intervals. After a series of 6 treatments, pause for two months, and then you may start again. Not all brown spots and pigmentation problems respond to glycolic acid peels. This is why your dermatologist or plastic surgeon evaluates your skin prior to recommending a particular skin program. When sun damage is severe, treatments with different agents are required to effectively penetrate more deeply.
It has been reported that in combination with MSM, colostrum and vitamins (especially vitamin C), the positive effects can be enhanced.
Glycolic Acid can help with the following
Adult Acne
Many over-the-counter products contain high levels of glycolic acid, which is a member of the alpha-hydroxy acid family. Glycolic acid used topically can effectively promote skin cells to shed more quickly and has been proven to be very effective in the treatment of acne.
Adolescent Acne
Products containing Glycolic Acid have proven very effective in the treatment of acne.
Keratoses
Glycolic acid can be used to treat both seborrheic keratosis, actinic keratosis and hyperkeratosis.
Key
| May do some good |
| Highly recommended |
Glossary
Collagen
The primary protein within white fibers of connective tissue and the organic substance found in tendons, ligaments, cartilage, skin, teeth and bone.
Elastin
A protein that is similar to collagen and is the chief constituent of elastic fibers.
Acne
A chronic skin disorder due to inflammation of hair follicles and sebaceous glands (secretion glands in the skin).
Age Spots
Also called "liver spots", these are flat, brown areas usually found on the face, hands, back and feet. They vary in size from 1/8 of an inch to several inches (0.3cm to several cm) and are associated with aging, but long-term sun exposure is also a major cause.
Colostrum
The first (immunologically rich) milk produced by lactating mothers after giving birth. Usually collected within 24 or 36 hours. Usual sources are cows.
Vitamin C
Also known as ascorbic acid, Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant vitamin essential to the body's health. When bound to other nutrients, for example calcium, it would be referred to as "calcium ascorbate". As an antioxidant, it inhibits the formation of nitrosamines (a suspected carcinogen). Vitamin C is important for maintenance of bones, teeth, collagen and blood vessels (capillaries), enhances iron absorption and red blood cell formation, helps in the utilization of carbohydrates and synthesis of fats and proteins, aids in fighting bacterial infections, and interacts with other nutrients. It is present in citrus fruits, tomatoes, berries, potatoes and fresh, green leafy vegetables.