What Is Glycolic Acid And Why Does It Make Your Skin Glow?

If you want a smooth, glowing complexion, the next ingredient you should look for in skincare products is glycolic acid. This active ingredient is a type of AHA that exfoliates and renews the skin's surface. As a result, your skin tone is evened out, pores appear smaller, and signs of aging are diminished. Your face looks brighter and more refreshed!

Who can benefit from it?
Almost all skin types can benefit from products with glycolic acid. Oily and acne-prone skin, most especially, will love how it helps speed up the fading of acne scars. Also, based on my experience and my derma's recommendation, glycolic acid can dry up zits fast. It doesn't sting, either!

If you have sensitive skin, however, it's best to ask your dermatologist first.

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So can I use it every day?
The period of usage varies. It can sometimes be thrice a week, for 14 consecutive days, or even 28 days. It really depends on the product instructions or your dermatologist's advice. Also, you can't use glycolic acid products forever because it sloughs off a micro-layer of dead skin. You need to take a break and apply "regular" stuff to avoid irritation. You also better load up on sunscreen during the day to protect your face!

Convinced? Here are some glycolic acid-infused products you can add to your routine:

This bar is available in 5 percent and 10 percent glycolic acid formulations, depending on your skin's need and tolerance.

Belo Prescriptives Glycolic Soap, Belo clinics

The rich lather of this facial wash guarantees clean pores, and it promises to improve skin texture and radiance with regular use.

Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser, P990, Rustan's The Beauty Source

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Aside from glycolic acid, this toner has papaya extract that fires up the skin's cell turnover—you'll get radiant, smooth complexion in less than a month!

Mario Badescu Glycolic Toner, P1,200, Rustan's The Beauty Source

This internet-famous toner is popular for a reason: It gives youthful, glowing results with daily use, and it refines the pores, too.

PHOTO: Mixi Ignacio

Pixi Glow Tonic, P1,690/250ml; P990/100ml; P390/50ml, Glamourbox.ph

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Let this derma-approved cream take care of bumps and scars on your skin. I kid you not, this really works and is worth every peso!

Neostrata Ultra Smoothing Cream, dermatological clinics

This lightweight cream can fade dark spots and discoloration.

In Her Element Glow Job 5% Glycolic Gel Cream, P775, InHerElement.ph

This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph.

* Minor edits have been made by the Smartparenting.com.ph editors.

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