Exfoliating actives

Dry, chapped heels and rough skin are common issues for those who spend long hours on their feet. While many treatments promise to rejuvenate the skin, one ingredient stands out for its efficacy: glycolic acid. Recognised for its exfoliating properties, glycolic acid could be the key to smoother, suppler feet. But how does it work? Let’s explore the science behind this potent alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA).

Has glycolic acid found a new application in hair care? Known for its long-standing use in skincare for its exfoliating properties, this alpha hydroxy acid may also offer benefits for those with greasy hair. Whilst direct studies on its effects in this area are limited, its success in skincare applications suggests it could have potential for managing excess sebum production and improving scalp health.

Glycolic acid is renowned for its ability to exfoliate the skin, while niacinamide soothes irritation and strengthens the barrier function. These two very different actives are frequently found in skincare routines. But can they be used together? And if so, does their combination offer additional benefits to the skin? Learn more in this article on the glycolic acid/niacinamide combination.

When it comes to skin-care acids, glycolic and salicylic acids are two of the most widely used, each characterised by its unique molecular structure, physicochemical properties and benefits. But how do you decide which is best for you? In this article, we will explore the differences between glycolic and salicylic acids, discuss their benefits and help you choose the most suitable option based on your skin type and concerns.

Although frequently overlooked in routine skin-care, the underarm area can derive significant benefit from targeted treatments that extend beyond basic hygiene. Glycolic acid, a potent alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) renowned for its demonstrable effects on facial skin, has attracted considerable interest for its potential in underarm care. If you are keen to address rough, dark patches beneath your arms, let us examine what scientific findings suggest about incorporating this noteworthy ingredient into your underarm skin-care regimen.

Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), is widely recognised for its exfoliating properties, making it a popular choice in skin care. But when it comes to sun exposure, should you exercise caution? This article examines the relationship between glycolic acid and photosensitivity, supported by scientific research.

Dandruff is a persistent condition that affects nearly half the population worldwide. The presence of white or yellow flakes, together with itching and irritation, can be both uncomfortable and frustrating. Recently, glycolic acid, renowned for its use in skincare, has begun to attract attention for its potential role in dandruff management. Could this versatile alpha-hydroxy acid help alleviate the symptoms of dandruff? Let us explore its potential benefits and the scientific rationale underpinning them.

Dark circles under the eyes are a common cosmetic concern. Contributing factors include genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, skin thinning and hyperpigmentation, all of which can alter the appearance of the under-eye area. A range of treatments exists, from topical agents to cosmetic procedures, with glycolic acid (GA) emerging as a popular chemical peel. But can GA effectively reduce dark circles? This article examines the scientific evidence on the use of glycolic acid for dark circles and its potential benefits.

Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane, is renowned for its ability to exfoliate, brighten and moisturise the skin. Widely employed in facial chemical peels, its potential in lip care is now coming to the fore. But can glycolic acid be used safely as a chemical peel on this sensitive area? This article examines the prospective benefits, risks and safe application practices for using glycolic acid on the lips, drawing on current data and scientific evidence.

With age, sun exposure and excess sebum, pores tend to dilate, compromising the uniformity of the complexion. According to certain sources, glycolic acid, from the alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) family, may tighten them. Is there scientific evidence to support such an action? Let us explore whether glycolic acid is an effective solution for tackling enlarged pores.

In the realm of skincare, acids are recognised for their potent impacts on the skin, particularly in relation to addressing blemishes and enhancing texture. Two prevalent acids are succinic acid and salicylic acid. Whilst both are utilised for tackling blemishes and oily skin, they function in unique ways. In this article, we'll investigate whether succinic acid is comparable to salicylic acid, emphasising their differences and similarities.

Keratosis pilaris, often referred to as "chicken skin" or "goosebumps", is a harmless yet sometimes frustrating condition that causes small dark bumps on the skin. Although various solutions are available, a popular option is glycolic acid, a chemical exfoliant known for its skin-smoothing properties. But can it effectively reduce keratosis pilaris? Let's explore the scientific findings on the efficacy of glycolic acid in mitigating keratosis pilaris.

Glycolic acid, an α-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane, is well-known for its ability to exfoliate, brighten, and hydrate the skin. Although it is commonly used for facial chemical peels, its use for sensitive and intimate areas is garnering increasing attention. But can glycolic acid be safely used as a chemical peel in these delicate regions? This article will explore the potential benefits, risks, and safe application practices for the use of glycolic acid peels on intimate skin, based on available data and scientific evidence.

Over time, the skin loses its volume and elasticity. Consequently, wrinkles and fine lines can form, one of the first signs of ageing. Given that they are inevitably part of the skin's natural ageing process, it is not necessarily essential to treat them. However, many people are in search of effective treatments that can minimise the visibility of wrinkles or even make them disappear. Glycolic acid is among the most popular choices. Let's explore how glycolic acid is capable of reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

Chin, nose, ear, back, chest, underarms... blackheads are a very common skin issue that almost everyone encounters at some point in their life. Although they do not affect physical health, they can, however, impact you psychosocially and psychologically. While they may disappear on their own depending on their depth in the skin, certain measures can be taken to help get rid of blackheads, including treatments based on salicylic acid. In this article, we examine the various benefits of this acid in tackling open comedones.

Salicylic acid is considered a benchmark in cosmetics in the category of "exfoliants". Psoriasis, blackheads, dull complexion, brown spots, pimples, keratosis pilaris... it is used in a wide variety of skin disorders related to desquamation and hyperkeratosis of the stratum corneum. However, with this broad usage and high clinical efficacy, how does salicylic acid exert its "peeling effect" on the skin?

During pregnancy, women become more cautious and concerned about the safety of the skincare products they use due to worries about potential dangers to the foetus. In this situation, how is salicylic acid judged?

Categorised as a BHA by the skincare industry, salicylic acid is not just perceived as a chemical exfoliant. It is also recommended for its anti-inflammatory effect on the skin to help reduce redness and skin inflammation. Let's discuss its mechanism of action in more detail in this article.

While salicylic acid is perhaps best known for its role as an exfoliant, helping to unclog pores and eliminate blemishes, it is also found in many products formulated for psoriasis, available either on prescription or over the counter. Prescribed alone or in combination with other treatments, salicylic acid has become a popular ingredient for treating psoriatic skin since the 1950s. But does its effectiveness live up to its reputation?

From spots to signs of ageing and even dandruff, salicylic acid has become a popular ingredient available in various concentrations and pharmaceutical forms. Despite its popularity and proven effectiveness, some questions still remain. Here are seven common queries we address here.

In the case of warts, there are numerous different medicinal approaches, both conventional and otherwise. Among these, we have preparations composed of salicylic acid which are commonly used to help get rid of a wart and is considered the first-line treatment for both children and adults. Let's explore in more detail here how salicylic acid can aid in the healing of warts.

Cutaneous warts are not necessarily dangerous, but they can cause itching and be bothersome. Faced with these issues, people will seek to remove them as quickly as possible. Glycolic acid is among the first-line treatments for warts. Let's explore in this article the effectiveness of glycolic acid as a treatment in managing cutaneous warts.

Local treatments are typically prescribed to promote the shedding of plaques in cases of psoriasis. They can be applied alone or combined with other treatments, depending on the location and size of the lesions. In addition to dermocorticoids, keratolytics notably offer benefits on thick plaques. Discover everything you need to know about their mode of action, dosage, and precautions for use of these treatments in this article.

Overshadowed by other acids deemed more effective, such as lactic acid or glycolic acid, mandelic acid is experiencing a real resurgence in popularity. Less aggressive than other AHAs, this ingredient derived from bitter almonds is suitable for all skin types and is even the perfect exfoliant for sensitive skin. Let's delve into this article about this active ingredient.

There are numerous skincare treatments that claim to combat the signs of ageing. Those containing mandelic acid are among them. Although the idea may seem daunting, chemical exfoliants can improve the appearance of wrinkles and skin sagging. But how do they achieve this?