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What is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is an Alpha Hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin! AND more!!

It is naturally derived from plants like sugar cane, pineapple, and sugar beets. Being one of the best performing alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) you can find. It is water soluble, and is the smallest of the AHA molecules.This allows it to penetrate deeper into the pores to do its work. Glycolic acid works by breaking down the glue that holds the dead cells together and exfoliates the skin. Opening up the pores allowing black heads and white heads to be washed away. Exfoliating will help diminish wrinkles, fine lines, clogged pores, and hyperpigmentation. It can also help with acne and acne scars. 

The small molecules ability to go deeper into the pore will boost collagen and elastin  production, which will plump the skin, firm the texture, and resist wrinkles. New cell generation is also stimulated by these small AHA molecules. These new cells push their way to the epidermis and also help diminish dark spots and acne scars. Hydration is another benefit of glycolic acid. Since it can go deeper into the skin it can help with production of hyaluronic acid that naturally occurs in the skin. Just like HA it can pull moisture from the outside environment, and if there is not any in the air to collect it will pull from deep in the skin. This can cause dryness if you live in a dry area.

Things to know:
* it can shrink pore size.
* it can be used daily.
* it is ok for all skin types. 
* it can cause irritation and redness.
* it can cause a stinging sensation (lower % and how often if this happens)
* it can cause flaking. (lower % and how often if this happens)

Glycolic acid comes in multiple strengths. Start with a 7% and let your skin adapt. Then you can increase to 10%, or 12%. Anything higher than 20% should be over seen by a dermatologist. If flaking occurs do not pick the flakes, it could cause hyperpigmentation or scaring. Other products containing vitamin A, AHA's, or taking accutane can cause a reaction as the skin is already sensitized. Retinol and AHA can be used together, but needs to be done carefully. This is multiple exfoliation process and can be harmful to the skin. Always follow up with a good layer of SPF 30 or higher sun screen everyday. You do not have to spend a lot of money for the product just pay attention to the % of AHA in the product.

Professional Skin Care Academy carries the following products containing Glycolic Acid:

Glycolic Cleanser, Raspberry Refining Cleanser, Glycolic/Retinol Pads, Clarifying Toner Pads, Blemish Spot Treatment.

If you have any questions or want to learn about a specific ingredient please comment below.  See you next Skin Care Saturday.

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