You've probably heard of glycolic acid if you're a fan of in-office chemical peels or at-home skincare. But did you know it has skin-smoothing properties that extend far beyond the face? The ingredient can address a range of skin concerns below the neck and are often even gentle enough for daily use from body acne and shaved burn to rough patches and dullness.
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derivative. Fruits contain a high concentration of AHAs. These are malic, tartaric, citric, and other acids derived from fruits, which is why they are sometimes referred to as "fruit acids," but glycolic acid is an AHA derived from sugarcane.
Glycolic acid is one of the smallest AHAs in terms of molecular size, which means it can penetrate the skin the most deeply. It's no surprise that it's available in both professional and at-home skincare. Glycolic acid works to break down the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, revealing the healthy, radiant skin beneath. It has even been shown to stimulate collagen production at certain concentrations.
Glycolic acid peels performed by a dermatologist are typically superficial or medium-depth, and are used to improve skin tone and texture. Because glycolic acid is present in higher concentrations, such as 30 to 40%, the peels can reduce dullness, hyperpigmentation, mild scarring, and fine lines.
At-home glycolic acid products have similar brightening effects, albeit slightly less dramatic. Glycolic acid at 5% to 7% is well tolerated by the majority of people. Higher concentrations of 10 to 20% are more potent and may not be appropriate for all users. Start slowly and gradually increase as tolerated.
One of the best aspects of glycolic acid? It is equally effective on the body as it is on the face. The AHA can be used to gently exfoliate and remove dead skin cells from the skin below the neck. Consider it similar to raking fallen leaves from your lawn in the autumn and allowing the ground beneath to 'breathe.' However, this turnover does not imply a loss of strength. Although one might expect glycolic to thin the skin because it removes surface cells, glycolic can actually help fortify the skin and make it plumper and more resilient.
While it may appear counterintuitive, glycolic acid-containing products can be an important part of a treatment plan for ichthyosis, the medical term for dry, scaly, or thickened skin. Chemical exfoliants help to loosen and remove dead skin cells, allowing more traditional moisturizers to penetrate the skin more easily.
And that isn't all. Glycolic acid works to restore and preserve the skin's acid mantle, which is a thin, acidic film that sits on the skin's surface and acts as a barrier against bacteria and viruses. Many of the products we use, such as soaps, are alkaline and may interfere with the skin's optimal pH. Because the optimal pH of skin on the majority of the face and body is between 4.7 and 5.7, using an acidic product can help offset the alkalinity of other skincare and personal care products.
You've probably figured out by now that glycolic acid has a wide range of applications from head to toe. It is frequently used in relation to the skin of the body to:
Unclog your pores
Prevent acne, bumps, and razor burn on your body.
Dry skin should be smoothed.
Glycolic acid is one of the best home remedies for preventing and treating body acne, especially during the hot, humid, and sweaty summer months. Use a glycolic acid cleanser in the shower to prevent acne or razor bumps on the body. As previously stated, AHA can also help smooth and brighten dry, dull skin. Apply it as a daily moisturizer after showering or bathing, while the skin is still damp. Apply an exfoliating lotion followed by a richer cream or balm to smooth rough and tough skin on the elbows, heels, or other thicker areas. With regular use, you will notice that your skin softens and hydrates.
We'd be remiss if we didn't point out that, while the acidic nature of these products benefits the skin in a variety of ways, it can also cause severe irritation. If used directly after shaving or on skin with breaks or cuts, the acidic nature of these products may cause a minor stinging sensation.
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