Have you ever read the back of a bottle of face cream or the ingredient lable on your cosmetics and thought to youself, "what IS this stuff?!" As we all know, there is often a list of ingredients we have never heard of (maybe we don't want to, either!), but the good news is, you do not have to worry when it comes to glycolic acid. Glycolic acid is almost always used in products related to skin care. Most commonly, glycolic acid is found in skin lotion.

Using glycolic acid on the skin is very easy and is probably found in more skin care products than you would imagine. Common types of glycolic acid lotion are items such as basic skin care routines, moisturizing lotions, body lotions, treatment lotions for the treatment of wrinkles and sun-damaged skin. Glycolic acid lotion is also very commonly used for the treatment of acne and acne prone skin, due to the fact that it penetrates deeply into the skin, breaking up the problems that lie deep within.

The main features of glycolic acid lotion are that it is non-toxic and multi-purpose. It is commonly found in many products, so it is also easily accessible and might be the solution to the any skin care problems. Glycolic acid comes from alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), which originate from fruits and other natural plants and resources. It can also be found in sugar cane, which is excellent because that makes it a natural product for the skin.

Here are a few reasons that you SHOULD be using a glycolic acid lotion. For starters, glycolic acid is a natural exfoliant because of its high acidity level. It is also an excellent natural moisturizer, as when applied to the skin, it penetrates deep through the skin's top layers and breaks up dead skin matter. It also helps to repair dead skin cells. As we all know, the importance of using a good exfoliating skin cream is to break up the dead skin so that it can be easily removed, leaving a softer and smoother skin surface. As you read earlier, many cosmetic products contain glycolic acid. This is because the constant use of makeup containing this product allows the the glycolic acid to absorb moisturizers into the skin. To sum it up, consistent usage of glycolic acid lotion can help improve the skin's pH balance and texture.

Keep in mind, to every upside, there is also a downside, so there are some negative aspects of glycolic acid lotion. As with any highly acidic product, heavy usage on the skin can increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, but sunburns can easily be avoided by applying a glycolic acid-free sunscreen to the skin before exposing it to the direct sunlight for long periods of time. Also, be sure to select a glycolic acid lotion that is not too high in concentration (not higher than 15%), as too much glycolic acid can cause skin corrosion.

The skin care industry is flooded with product choices, but here are the top 5 glycolic acid lotion products that we have found to be the best for providing top skin care without unwanted side effects.

Helps smooth skin and reduce visual signs of aging

Product Description:
This formula contains 8% glycolic acid and 2% citric acid. The NeoStrata Ultra Smoothing Lotion can perfectly be used on the face, hands and body. Ultra Smoothing Lotion is suitable for all non-sensitive skin types.

Extra-strength formula, improving overall skin texture

Product Description:
This lotion, which contains 15% glycolic acid, reduces the visible signs of aging, evens out skin tone, and relieves the dry skin. Recommended for use only after sustained treatment with NeoStrata AHA Skin Smoothing Lotion or Cream. Intended for normal to oily skin that has already acclimated to AHA use. The Neostrata Lotion Plus is not recommended for the sensitive skin.

Helps fade the signs of wrinkles, freckles, and acne scars

Product Description:
Uses 2% hydroquinone and 1% kojic acid, lightening and brightening the area, thereby restoring a healthy and undamaged appearance. 5% glycolic acid evens the skin tone. The skin becomes evenly toned and looks healthier.

Slowly releases glycolic acid and moisturizing agents throughout the day; helps create a smooth complexion

Product Description:
This lightweight oil-free lotion combines glycolic acid with SPF 15 protection. This Glytone Essentials lotion is for daily use. 14% glycolic acid complex normal to oily skin

Hydrating lotion for smooth texture

Product Description:
Glytone Rejuvenate Facial Lotion 2 cotains 15% Glycolic Acid. It helps to firm fine lines , wrinkles, large pores and decongests problem skin by increasing cell turnover rate and absorbs excess oil with microcapsules to keep skin shine free throughout the day. Hydrates the skin while working to exfoliate dead skin cells to reveal a fresher, youthful looking complexion. For normal to oily, combination and problem skin conditions.