What is Glycolic Acid For?
What is Glycolic Acid For?
You’ve likely heard about glycolic acid before and maybe even tried it. Multifunctional, the active ingredient is a hero substance in many people’s skincare routine. Today, we will tell you everything you need to know about this active ingredient, including how to add it to your regimen!
WHAT IS GLYCOLIC ACID?
Glycolic acid is an active part of the alpha hydroxy acids (AHAS), water-soluble acids derived from fruits and cereals. Other examples of AHAs are lactic acid, mandelic acid, and citric acid.
Derived from sugar cane, the glycolic acid is famous for its high capacity to stimulate cellular renewal, i.e., remove dead cells from the skin surface and leave a light and healthy aspect.
HOW DOES GLYCOLIC ACID WORK ON THE SKIN?
Glycolic acid causes the desquamation of the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin), leaving it thinner, with new cells on its surface. The replacement of dead cells for newer ones leaves the skin smoother, with less blemishes and less uneven texture.
Moreover, cellular renewal by glycolic acid also helps unclog pores, contributing to reduced oiliness. It makes the skin less susceptible to the development of pathogenic microorganisms, such as the ones responsible for acne.
CHECK OUT THE BENEFITS OF GLYCOLIC ACID FOR THE SKIN
GLYCOLIC ACID FOR ACNE
Multiple studies show the efficacy of the glycolic acid in treating acne. It can reduce oil production on the skin and prevent the development of Propionibacterium acnes, the leading cause of acne.
FACILITATES THE ABSORPTION OF OTHER ACTIVES
Among all AHAs, glycolic acid has the lower molecular weight. This results in the best penetration into the skin, making it the fastest absorption in its class of acids.
It also stimulates the opening of intracellular spaces (between cells), which allows for greater penetration of other active ingredients into the skin.
GLYCOLIC ACID PEEL
OUR PEELING BUNDLE COMPOSED OF CLEANSER + SERUM PROMOTES A GENTLE CHEMICAL PEEL
Another notable appeal of glycolic acid is its benefits for aging skin, mainly if applied in higher concentration in a process called peeling.
The chemical peel provides a light facial exfoliation to renew epidermal cells. Various studies showed how glycolic acid peeling is super effective in preventing aging signs, softening blemishes, improving sagging, and restoring dry skin, proving its versatility.
HOW TO USE GLYCOLIC ACID?
Glycolic acid can be introduced into your skincare routine in a few different forms. Here at Simple Organic, we have the Glycolic Acid Cleanser for deep skin cleansing and the Glycolic Acid Serum for nighttime treatment.
GLYCOLIC ACID CLEANSER
With 5% concentrated glycolic acid, the Cleanser promotes deep cleaning without leading to dehydrated skin. Free of sulfates, it maintains the physiologic pH, sanitizes, hydrates, reduces fine lines, and promotes even and renewed skin.
Clinically and dermatologically tested, it also brings the power of natural Alpha-Bisabolol and botanical extracts of Calendula and Juá.
EFFICACY TEST
*The parameter used was the percentage of positive responses about the product’s performance after 28 days (D28) of continuous use.
91% of people reported feeling their face clean;
87% of people reported their skin tone more even;
87% of people felt the product doesn’t cause a pulling sensation;
87% of people felt the product doesn’t dry out the skin;
83% of people felt their skin velvety smooth.
How to use it? Apply it to the face, spread it with your hands in circular movements, and rinse it off with running water. It can be used both during the day and nighttime.
GLYCOLIC ACID SERUM
Glycolic Acid Serum (soon available in the US) is a treatment product to aid skin regeneration, exclusive for nighttime. And that’s because Glycolic Acid – like most acids – are photosensitive and, if in direct contact with sunlight, can damage the skin.
Unlike cleansers, which are rinsed off right after application, the Serum stays on the skin. The best method is to apply the product only at nighttime, make sure to rinse off in the morning, and then add sunscreen.
EFFICACY TEST
*The parameter used was the percentage of positive responses about the product’s performance after 28 days (D28) of continuous use.
97% of people reported improvement in skin firmness and elasticity;
94% of people felt action on fine lines;
94% of people noticed their skin tone more even;
94% of people felt their skin was more luminous.
How to use it? Apply some drops to the face and spread with fingertips until fully absorbed. Nighttime use only. In a skincare routine, serums must follow the cleanser. If you have any questions about the order of application, click here.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Products that contain glycolic acid must not be applied on skin that presents burns, inflammation, or active infections, such as herpes. Pregnant women and people with sensitive skin should talk to a doctor before use.
CONCLUSION
Glycolic acid is a remarkably versatile active ingredient well known for promoting cellular renewal on the skin. Here, at Simple, you will find the substance as the centerpiece of our Glycolic Acid Cleanser for deep cleansing. It’s a clinically and dermatologically tested formula with 100% natural, vegan, and cruelty-free ingredients.