Glycolic acid is a popular skin care ingredient. One look at most cosmetic and skin care products and you will see this as an ingredient. It belongs to the AHAs or Alpha Hydroxy Acids, which are essentially fruit acids. Derived from sugar cane extracts, this natural compound is effective in renewing the skin and maintaining a “school girl complexion”. With regular and proper use, you will indeed see a marked improvement on your skin – diminished fine lines and an even, smoother and glowing skin. Glycolic acid is small enough that it is able to breach the cell walls and once there, it works to increase the production of collagen. It also dissolves the substance that holds dead skin cells onto the skin. Another important function of glycolic acid is that it draws in moisture into the upper layer of the skin. Thus, it is also a natural exfoliating agent and moisturizer.

Here are the benefits of glycolic acid:

1. Stimulates elastin and collagen production. Elastin gives your skin its elasticity and suppleness while collagen forms the “mattress” on which your skin lies. Due to aging and sun damage, the production of these two important substances is greatly diminished. As a result, the skin becomes less lax and wrinkles appear. Glycolic acid works deep down into the skin, encouraging an increased production of elastin and collagen.
2. Improves scarring caused by acne. Acne scars become flatter and less noticeable with continuous application.
3. Binds moisture into the skin. It helps increase the production of Glycos-Amino-Glycans, which are substances that bind water to the skin. Think of a dry sponge. As water is added into it, the sponge becomes plump. The same thing works on the skin.
4. Removes the build up of dead skin cells. These cells tend to build up inside the follicle, which causes acne. Glycolic acid loosens the skin’s hold on these dead cells to allow newer cells to come to the surface of the skin. Thus, the dull and lifeless appearance of the skin is replaced with a fresher and younger look.
5. Improves skin texture. Because it has the effect of giving the skin a tighter appearance, it also gives the skin better texture. The skin becomes smoother and softer.
6. Works as an anti-oxidant. Our face is exposed daily to free radicals that speed up the aging process of our skin. The glycolic acid binds itself to these free radicals and keeps them from doing their damage.
7. Gives the skin an even tone. Dark spots and pigmentation are visibly minimized, so that the skin looks more even in terms of

With all the benefits of glycolic acid, one must also remember to use it right. In high concentrations, it can be corrosive and may even cause damage to your skin. On the other hand, experts say that too low concentrations also may be ineffective. So be sure to use only products that provide the proper concentration – 8 – 10% is believed to be the optimal concentration. This also has a “peeling” effect and makes the skin more susceptible to sun damage. When you use glycolic acid, be sure to combine sunscreen to your skin care regimen. The sunscreen should have a high SPF rating, and should be oil free and non-comedogenic as well. Be sure to stay out of the sun as well. Getting a tan and using glycolic acid surely do not mix!

You will feel a slight burning sensation when you apply glycolic acid. Now, when the sting or burning sensation persists after three minutes or when you perspire, you have most likely applied too much of the glycolic acid. Glycolic acid can also be combined with salicylic acid to effectively get rid of dead skin cells