Can you improve your skin's texture, fade dark patches, and smooth fine wrinkles? You can by adding a glycolic acid cleanser to your daily skincare routine.
You'll also enjoy other benefits if you do this. Glycolic acid exfoliates, firms skin, and cleans pores to prevent breakouts.
According to Verywell Health, glycolic acid is one of the most used alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) in skincare products. It penetrates the skin deeper than other AHAs, making it more effective and the perfect addition to your skincare routine.
Read on to learn more about the benefits of using it as a daily cleanser.
What is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid with the molecular formula C2H4O3. It is an odorless, colorless crystalline solid that retains moisture and is highly soluble in water. There are many types of AHAs, and most are naturally found in certain foods.
- Fermented vegetables and dairy contain lactic acid
- Apples contain malic acid
- Citrus fruits contain citric acid
- Grapes contain tartaric acid
Glycolic acid is found in sugarcane, beets, and certain fruits and is one of the more well-known AHAs along with lactic acid.
What's one of the many benefits of glycolic acid? It is the AHA with the smallest molecular structure. This characteristic is one of the main reasons it's so widely used in skincare products, as it allows it to penetrate the skin easily.
Glycolic Acid Cleanser Skin Benefits
Effective skin penetration is one reason to include it in your daily skincare routine. Here are a few other glycolic acid skincare benefits you can enjoy:
1. Effective Exfoliation
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and can improve skin's appearance. Glycolic acid does this effectively because it dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, eliminating the need for physical, harsh scrubbing. Removing dead skin cells:
- Makes skin feel silkier and smoother
- Unclogs pores
- Helps skincare products penetrate the skin more effectively
- Revitalizes the skin, making its tone brighter
- Prevents ingrown hairs
- Boosts collagen circulation and improves overall circulation
When a glycolic acid cleanser removes the uppermost layer of dead skin cells, the result is smoother, younger-looking skin.
2. Improves Skin Texture
Why is using a glycolic acid cleanser a skincare routine enhancement? According to an article in Good Housekeeping, statistically, glycolic acid improved discoloration and skin texture by 5%.
Daily use helps smooth rough patches and even out skin tone. It also helps fade acne scars and hyperpigmentation for a more uniform complexion and brighter skin tone.
3. Reduces Acne Breakouts
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the US and can occur at any age. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) estimates that almost 50 million Americans are affected by it every year. It can be costly if treated by a medical expert and often results in lost productivity.
A glycolic acid cleanser can help alleviate this by keeping pores clear of dead skin cells and excess oil. Those with acne-prone skin can benefit from its antibacterial properties, which help reduce breakouts.
4. Fights Signs of Aging
Glycolic acid also has anti-aging benefits due to its ability to stimulate collagen production. This is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Consistent use of a glycolic acid cleanser can result in firmer-looking skin. The cell turnover that occurs when it's used daily also helps sustain a more youthful complexion.
5. Enhances Absorption of Other Products
Do you use more than one product in your daily skincare routine? What if one among them could enhance the effectiveness of the others?
A daily glycolic acid cleanser has the potential to do this. It enhances the absorption of other skincare products as it exfoliates the skin.
Maximizing the efficacy of your serums and moisturizers helps ensure they deliver their intended benefits. When you use a glycolic acid cleanser, these other products become more effective with subsequent use.
6. Hydrating Properties
Drinking water, eating healthy, and getting adequate sleep help to hydrate skin. Many people also use moisturizers, Vitamin C serums, and emollients. Hydration is essential for radiant skin because it:
- Improves skin tone
- Protects skin from external elements
- Helps skin look plump so it reflects light better, giving it a glow
- Reduces puffiness
- Maintains skin elasticity
- Balances oil levels
- Supports cell regeneration
A glycolic acid cleanser should also be a key element if you're trying to achieve a radiant skin routine. It can help the skin retain moisture so that it stays hydrated.
Dryness can sometimes occur with some exfoliating treatments. Using glycolic acid can prevent this and maintain healthy skin.
7. Safe for Daily Use at Low Concentrations
Are you still hesitant to use a glycolic acid cleanser despite its benefits? It's natural to associate products containing the word acid with harshness and burning. It may even seem counterintuitive as a skincare product.
However, glycolic acid cleansers are safe for daily use. Over-the-counter products are typically formulated with lower concentrations of glycolic acid so you can slowly and safely introduce these into your skincare routine.
Start with products that contain 1% to 3%, which will allow you to gauge your skin's tolerance level. Once you determine what that is, you can increase usage frequency and concentration levels.
A Daily Routine to Improve Your Skin's Health
Glycolic acid cleansers have the potential to achieve the results most people hope for when using skincare products. They effectively exfoliate, improve skin texture, and can reduce breakouts. A glycolic acid cleanser can help fight signs of aging, enhances the absorption of other skin care products, and has many hydration properties.
Don't let the word acid scare you.
Products with low concentrations of glycolic acid, like Pura Vida Chicas' Glycolic Acid Facial Cleanser, are safe for daily use. With 3% glycolic acid, it's gentle yet effective. It safely removes the outer layer of dead skin while correcting discoloration.
Our glycolic acid facial cleanser is one of our many meticulously handcrafted products. We create them with care and attention to detail to ensure each will help enhance your self-care routine. Explore our curated selection of personalized care essentials to look and feel your best.