The Effects of Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is a sugarcane product that can be found in some anti-aging skin care products, as well as topical creams and ointments that are used to rid the skin of acne. Glycolic acid belongs to the family of acids known as alpha hydroxides that are similar to citrus fruit acids and work to exfoliate the skin, exposing the smooth under layer. The effects of glycolic acid are not the same for everyone and should be carefully monitored by a dermatologist when used in high dosages.

How it Works

Essentially, glycolic acid penetrates the top layer of skin cells and burns them away. According to Glycolicacid.com, as we age, our bodies have a difficult time regenerating the skin and creating fresh skin cells. The glycolic acid helps with this task by sloughing away the old skin cell layers that contain lines and wrinkles, leaving behind skin cells that are more youthful and untouched by the damage of time and the elements. In cases of acne, the layer of skin that contains blemishes can also be removed.

In the Dermatologist's Office or at Home?

The strength of the glycolic acid that is available for use depends on how it is obtained. Treatments that are purchased on store shelves and specially designed for at-home use will contain a lower dosage of glycolic acid than a product offered by a dermatologist. Most home products contain as little as 3 percent glycolic acid, but Chemicalpeel.org explains that the amount of glycolic acid that is contained in a dermatologist's grade peel is between 20 and 80 percent. The effect is also different. A stronger dose of glycolic acid will remove more skin layers, ultimately creating a more youthful appearance.

Skin Discolorations

Not only can glycolic acid have an effect on your skin's texture, the American Academy of Dermatology reports that it can also help to correct your skin tone. Age spots that develop with age and after sun damage can be lifted and removed as the glycolic acid removes the epidermal layers of the skin. But keep in mind that the effects are only temporary. If you fail to use sunscreen, skin damage can occur once again, requiring another glycolic treatment.

Sensitive Skin

Glycolic acid can irritate your skin and leave behind a painful rash or burn. If you have oily skin, chances are you may tolerate the effects of glycolic acid better than someone who does not. In the book "Growing Younger," author Bridget Doherty discusses the importance of testing your skin for sensitivity while using any product containing glycolic acid. You may find that your skin can tolerate the application of glycolic acid products every other day, instead of every day or several times a day. Pay attention to the signals that your skin is giving you. If your skin becomes too dry or irritated, you may need to skip a day in between or discontinue use altogether.

Ultraviolet Light

Prolonged use of glycolic acid can affect the way your skin responds to the ultraviolet light that is given off during sun exposure. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration explains that if you use cosmetics that contain any of the acids of the alphahydroxy family, you should always wear a sunscreen when you are outside during daylight hours. Not doing so can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

References

• Glycolicacid.com
• Chemicalpeel.org
• American Academy of Dermatology

Resources

• Growing Younger
• Food and Drug Administration