Glycolic acid is a fruit acid with numerous benefits. Renowned for its exfoliating properties, it is included in the composition of several facial care products. In which treatments can we find glycolic acid?
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In which products can we find glycolic acid?
Summary
Published August 26, 2021,
updated on July 26, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
3 min read
Definition of Glycolic Acid.
Glycolic acid is a carboxylic acid derived from sugars found in beetroots, grapes, or even sugarcane. It is the most well-known of the A.H.A.s, particularly for its ability to easily and deeply penetrate the skin due to its small size. This characteristic allows it to effectively stimulate cellular activity. Thanks to its numerous virtues, it is a good ally for both the skin and hair, and is thus incorporated into many treatments. This active ingredient presents numerous benefits:
It rids the epidermis of its layer of dead cells that dull the complexion and clog the pores, thereby stimulating cellular renewal;
It helps to reduce fine lines and decrease the depth of wrinkles, particularly by increasing collagen production and the proliferation of fibroblasts;
It evens out the complexion by fading hyperpigmented areas (melasma, acne scars, age spots);
It aids in purifying the skin by eliminating excess sebum and regulating its secretion;
It assists in addressing skin imperfection issues, such as comedones and inflammatory pimples;
It enhances the hydration level of the skin and hair, and helps to impart shine to the hair.
Glycolic Acid: In which skincare products can it be found?
Glycolic acid is incorporated into the formulation of numerous skincare products: creams, masks, serums, toners, cleansing gels, shampoos... It can be found in purifying treatments for oily and blemished skin, as well as in brightening and unifying treatments. However, it is particularly prevalent in peels. Nevertheless, in cosmetic treatments for home use, glycolic acid is present in varying quantities (between 1 and 10%) to provide a gentle peel without the need for a dermatologist visit.
At Typology, you can find glycolic acid in our exfoliating and astringent lotion for daily use, where it helps to refine the skin texture (tighten dilated pores), gently remove dead skin for a smoother and more unified complexion, and unclog pores to combat blackheads. You can also find it in our exfoliating serum formulated with a 10% glycolic acid content and no need for rinsing. This treatment is intended to enhance the radiance of the complexion, and dislodge excess sebum that leads to the formation of comedones. Our exfoliating night cream also contains glycolic acid in combination with mandelic acid. It removes dead skin and offers a deep-cleansing action. The presence of blackheads and the dilation of pores is reduced day by day. Finally, our peeling mask to be used once or twice a week is composed of an exfoliating complex that refines the skin texture and unifies the complexion.
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