Does Glycolic Acid Help Acne?

Treatment for acne Grass Valley, CA is available through 916SKIN - Acne, Skin & Wellness Clinic: 530.680.2027

Glycolic acid can be an effective tool in helping to clear acne, but it can also be disastrous if it's not compatible with your skin's biochemistry. It's small molecular size makes it an aggressive molecule that penetrates deeper and faster than other hydroxy acids. On the wrong person, even a mild glycolic solution may cause redness, burning, and itching. There is no way of predicting who can tolerate glycolic acid. I have seen patients with thick, oily, resilient skin unable to tolerate the mildest glycolic solution; while other patients with thin, dry, sensitive skin may tolerate a much stronger glycolic acid solution. The best way to find out - is to be tested.

Clearing acne requires an entire skin care system. Glycolic alone, will not work. So, before you spend a bunch of money loading up on glycolic products, schedule an appointment with a skin care specialist to find out which acne products are best suited for you!

What Is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid peels in Chico, CA are available at 916SKIN - Acne, Skin & Wellness Clinic. Acne consulatations: 530.680.2027

Glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid commonly used in skin care products. Glycolic acid can be isolated from sugar cane and certain fruits and vegetables such as beets, rhubarb, and grapes. The more affordable method of manufacturing is through chemical or enzymatic processes.  Glycolic acid may be found in certain cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizers, and eye creams. It is also used as an in-office treatment and are often referred to as a professional or chemical peel.

Glycolic acid has gained notoriety as an acne product as well as an anti-aging elixir. Glycolic acid works by penetrating the upper layers of the epidermis and breaking the bonds that hold the skin cells together allowing the skin to lift at the deeper layers - sloughing cells from the inside out. Over time, glycolic acid retexturizes the skin, thereby reducing fine lines and hyperpigmentation (age/brown spots), and restoring that "youthful glow." While its benefits are alluring, glycolic acid is an aggressive molecule, and can do more damage than good when used incorrectly.