How to Test for Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is a natural substance that is usually seen as a 70% liquid solution. It is used in many cleaning products and other exfoliating products because it is biodegradable and is non-toxic to animals in normal doses. The cosmetic industry uses a solution of 30% to 40% glycolic acid as an exfoliating facial peel. It is important to test glycolic acid before applying it to the face as some people may have allergic reactions to the solution. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Soap
- Glycolic acid face peel (or other solution with glycolic acid)
- Water
- Washcloth
- Acidic cleanser
- Face pads
- Q-tips
Instructions
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1
Prepare your skin for the test. Use an acidic face or body cleanser to wash a small spot on the inside of your forearm. The inside forearm has skin that closely resembles the skin on your face, so it is the ideal place to see how your face might react to a solution of glycolic acid. Rinse with cold water, then apply the cleanser and rinse again with water. Do not use soap, as this will reduce the acidity of the glycolic acid.
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2
Pour a little glycolic acid solution onto a face pad or washcloth. If the glycolic acid solution is too thick to apply with a face pad, use a Q-tip and scoop some out and place it onto your skin. Spread a small layer, just like you would on your face.
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3
Wait 10 minutes while the acid absorbs into the skin. If your skin begins to tingle, hurt or becomes noticeably red, then dilute the solution at once using liquid soap. Pour the soap directly onto the skin and wash immediately. If there is only slight redness or a gentle tingling sensation, then your skin is reacting normally to the product.
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Cleanse the skin with soap and water after 10 minutes. It is likely that your skin will be a little red, but that is normal. As long as there is no drastic reaction, burning sensation or vivid redness, then your skin can take the application of glycolic acid for exfoliation purposes.
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Wait an additional 10 to 20 minutes before applying the solution to your face. There is a chance that the solution will react with your skin after a longer period of time. Any redness should be completely gone by the end of 20 minutes.
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Tips & Warnings
Only apply glycolic acid in a well-ventilated area.
Do not use glycolic acid near the eye area.
