Glycolic acid is one option to treat acne. There are many types available, including over-the-counter products. It’s a good idea to consult a dermatologist to be sure your skin can tolerate glycolic acid.
Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane that can help those with frequent acne breakouts or other skin concerns.
There are some things to consider before using it, including how much to use and if it’s right for your skin. Keep reading to find out more.
When applied to the skin, AHAs like glycolic acid break the bonds between the outer layer of skin cells, including dead skin cells, and the next skin cell layer. This creates a peeling effect that can make the skin appear smoother and more even.
The benefit of glycolic acid is that the peeling may result in less “gunk” that clogs the pores. This includes dead skin cells and oil. With less to clog the pores, the skin can clear, and you may have fewer breakouts as a result.
Glycolic acid is available in several forms, including over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription treatments. These include:
- face washes
- lotions
- peels
- serums
- skin care pads
Start with a small amount unless your dermatologist directs otherwise. You may wish to try a glycolic acid cleanser to see if your skin can tolerate glycolic acid.
There are a few things to remember when using glycolic acid.
First, glycolic acid is an example of chemical exfoliation. While it’s not as fast as a scrub, the acid can penetrate deeper and produce greater exfoliation over time. Thus, you do not need to exfoliate with scrubs when also using glycolic acid.
You also don’t need to use multiple glycolic acid-containing products. Consistent use of one product with occasional spot treatments is often enough to keep your skin clear.
In some instances, your dermatologist may recommend a stronger, in-office peel.
Common side effects of glycolic acid include:
- swelling
- itching
- burning sensations
When using glycolic acid, you
The amount of peeling glycolic acid usually depends on the concentration. According to a
Lower percentages can be less irritating and more skin-friendly. Topical preparations range from 1 percent to 10 percent, with the higher end usually reserved for spot treatments or a rinse-off peel only.
There are sources on the internet that sell higher percentages of glycolic acid, sometimes as much as 30 or 40 percent. These are medical-grade peels, and you shouldn’t use them without a dermatologist’s oversight.
A dermatologist knows how long a peel should stay on and if it’s right for your skin.
In addition to acne, dermatologists use glycolic acid to treat the following skin conditions:
- age spots
- hyperpigmentation
- melasma
- scars
- skin roughness
- keratosis pilaris
These different uses make glycolic acid a versatile ingredient for those seeking to improve their skin’s appearance.
If you have acne, especially more severe forms like cystic acne, it’s a good idea to check with your dermatologist first before using glycolic acid.
This is especially true if your doctor already has you using prescription products, including antibiotics. It’s possible that the combination of glycolic acid and other products could interact.
You should also see your dermatologist if you’re considering a glycolic acid peel. These are higher concentrations of glycolic acid that may offer greater results in terms of exfoliation, but they require a knowledgeable professional.
Glycolic acid is a multitasking skin care ingredient that can help fight acne and improve skin appearance. However, because of concerns about irritation, it’s best to talk with a dermatologist before you start using it.
Starting with lower percentage formulations can help your skin adjust and reduce irritation risks.