Glycolic Acid Uses
Glycolic acid is a natural substance derived from fruits and sugar cane. It is one of the alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and is used in many cosmetic and facial skin care products. Glycolic acid acts as an exfoliant, meaning it removes dead cells from the skin's surface, revealing newer, smoother skin underneath. Does this Spark an idea?
-
Identification
-
Glycolic acid found in cosmetic products renews the skin's surface, helps remove scars, wrinkles and fine lines, tightens and smooths the skin, unblocks pores, lightens discolorations and counters other skin conditions that manifest because of aging. Because of these properties, you also can use it to treat acne.
Function
-
Glycolic acid's caustic properties are what makes it effective in changing the skin's surface. The acid dissolves damaged or dead skin, leaving behind smoother, healthier, more youthful-looking skin.
-
Size
-
The molecules that make up glycolic acid are very small in size and weight, which makes them able to penetrate skin cells more easily and thoroughly.
Types
-
In addition to being an ingredient in skin care products such as gels, creams and liquid cleansers, glycolic acid also is used--in higher concentrations--as a key ingredient in metal parts cleaners, industrial strength degreasers and rust removers.
Other Uses
-
Companies such as DuPont manufacture their own glycolic acid for use in cleaning concrete, metal masonry and hard surfaces, water wells and food equipment. The acid also is used for electropolishing, petroleum refining, leather treatment and the dying and finishing of textiles.
Considerations
-
U.S. government regulators consider glycolic acid safe for cosmetic use only when the concentration of acid in the product is 10 percent or less. Otherwise, it is considered a hazard to the human body. Additional safety requirements from the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel state that products containing glycolic acid should have a pH level of 3.5 or more. They also must be formulated to protect skin from sun sensitivity or carry a warning label advising users to use daily sun protection.
Warning
-
Studies have confirmed that glycolic acid and other AHAs increase the skin's sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. For that reason, experts recommend the use of sunscreen and protective clothing while you are using these products on your skin.
-
