What Does Glycolic Acid Do for Your Skin?

Finding the right ingredient to elevate your skincare routine can make all the difference, and glycolic acid is one of our favorites. As you may know, there’s a lot of hype around glycolic acid benefits for skin—and we’d say that’s warranted. This ingredient can work wonders to refresh and rejuvenate your skin’s appearance. Whether you're looking to visibly smooth out texture, brighten the look of your complexion, or address the appearance of dark spots, glycolic acid may be just what you need. Let's explore how this powerhouse can become a vital part of your skincare regimen; plus, we’ll fill you in on our go-to glycolic acid products from L’Oréal Paris.

What Is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is a prominent skincare ingredient, widely recognized as one of the most common alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) used in cosmetics. According to the Cleveland Clinic, AHAs like glycolic acid help exfoliate, turning over layers of dead skin cells on the surface of your skin. This action can contribute to lessening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While primarily used in skincare, glycolic acid also has applications in other industries, such as textile and leather processing, due to its exfoliating and penetrating properties.

How does glycolic acid work?

Glycolic acid works by gently breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells on the skin's surface, allowing them to be easily sloughed away. This process helps reveal fresher, more radiant-looking skin underneath and helps to improve the overall appearance of skin texture. Glycolic acid’s small molecular size enables it to penetrate deeply into the skin, providing effective exfoliation. And by removing dead skin cells, glycolic acid can also help other skincare products absorb more effectively, enhancing their benefits. 

Who should use glycolic acid?

Anyone looking to improve their skin’s texture and tone may want to try glycolic acid. This ingredient can be particularly helpful for individuals with dull, uneven, or sun-damaged skin, as it promotes a more radiant and even-looking complexion. Those struggling with fine lines, wrinkles, or dark spots may also find glycolic acid effective in addressing their skin concerns. 

It's important to note that glycolic acid is available in various formulations, including cleansers, toners, and serums, allowing users to choose products that best suit their skin type and needs. Beginners might opt for lower concentrations to build tolerance, whereas experienced users may prefer more potent formulations for enhanced results.

What Are the Biggest Glycolic Acid Benefits?

There are numerous noteworthy glycolic acid skin benefits. In fact, the ingredient’s versatile nature is a key factor in its popularity. Below learn a little about four key glycolic acid benefits.

1. Younger-looking skin

According to the Cleveland Clinic, glycolic acid is a top anti-aging ingredient. Take a stroll down a skincare aisle at most stores, and you’ll likely see a plethora of glycolic acid products with anti-aging claims. This is because the exfoliant helps refine the appearance of pores and make skin appear smoother.

2. Faster product absorption

Alpha-hydroxy acids like glycolic acid can prep your skin to better absorb your other skincare products, leading to more effective results.

3. Fewer wrinkles

The U.S. National Library of Medicine states that in addition to resurfacing the skin and evening skin tone, glycolic acid can also minimize the appearance of wrinkles.

4. Reduction of dark spots

“Does glycolic acid help with dark spots?” is one of the skincare ingredient questions we hear most often. The answer? Yes. Per the American Academy of Dermatology, glycolic acid products can help fade existing dark spots.

What Are the Disadvantages of Glycolic Acid?

The effects of glycolic acid can vary from product to product, and it's important to be aware of potential side effects. According to the Cleveland Clinic, side effects of AHAs like glycolic acid may include mild skin irritation and increased sun sensitivity. To mitigate risks associated with sun exposure, always apply sunscreen during the day and consider using glycolic acid products in the evening. If you experience any skin irritation or other side effects, it's best to speak to your dermatologist.

How To Use Glycolic Acid

Before you start using a skincare product formulated with glycolic acid, make sure you’re prepared. As noted above, alpha-hydroxy acids like glycolic acid can increase your skin’s sun sensitivity, so sun safety and protection are key. The FDA recommends using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure by seeking shade and avoiding the sun during its peak hours. For effective sun protection, consider using the L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Daily UV Lotion. This sunscreen is formulated with UVA and UVB filters and provides broad-spectrum protection against the sun’s damaging rays..

When introducing a glycolic acid product, it’s also essential to follow the application instructions for the specific product you’re using. Beyond this, you may want to start slow to avoid potential irritation. For example, if a formula says it can be used nightly, start with two times a week and gradually build up to every day.

How To Choose the Right Glycolic Acid Product for You

If you're new to using glycolic acid, you may want to consult a dermatologist before incorporating it into your routine to avoid potential skin damage or irritation. For those who have used glycolic acid before, selecting a new product will depend on your specific skincare needs and whether you prefer incorporating it into your exfoliation, cleansing, moisturizing, or serum step.

Below, find three products you can try to start reaping glycolic acid’s benefits.

L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Dark Spot Exfoliant Peel

As we mentioned, using glycolic acid for dark spots can be an effective skincare solution. This exfoliant in particular is one of our favorite options. It’s crafted to visibly fade all types of dark spots and renew skin texture. The formula with a unique blend of AHAs, BHA, and PHA, which takes inspiration from professional peels, provides gentle exfoliation, brightens skin tone, and improves skin texture. After just one use, skin appears instantly brighter and feels retexturized and softer. Plus, the dermatologist-validated peel is suitable for sensitive skin and all skin tones.

This chemical exfoliator is meant for use up to four times per week. Shake the bottle well, then apply evenly to clean, dry skin. Wait 15 minutes, rinse, and follow with moisturizer. And remember, during the day, sunscreen is a must.

L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Derm Intensives 3.5% Glycolic Acid Cleanser

This cleansing gel removes makeup, excess oil, dirt, and impurities from the skin’s surface. The combination of glycolic acid and salicylic acid helps refine the appearance of enlarged pores while revealing smoother, brighter skin. It's a great introduction to glycolic acid and an easy way to incorporate it into your routine as the first step.

L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Derm Intensives 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Serum

This resurfacing serum uses pure glycolic acid to visibly even your skin tone and reduce dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. Best for nighttime use, apply the serum before moisturizer. In the morning, be sure to apply SPF at the end of your skincare routine to protect your photosensitive skin.

Next Up: How To Use Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid Together

Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Paris