We all know there are many go-to ingredients we need to look for when it comes to our skincare. From Retinol for the best in anti-ageing to hyaluronic acid for supercharged hydration, but if your skin is looking a little dull and devitalised and you’re forever coveting that ‘instaglow’, glycolic acid is the ingredient you need to be looking out for.

But what is glycolic acid exactly?

Don’t let the word ‘acid’ scare you. Glycolic acid is a water soluble AHA (otherwise known as alpha-hydroxy acid) derived from sugar cane! It’s a type of natural exfoliant which dissolves the ‘glue’ that holds dead skin cells together, enabling them to be easily sloughed away revealing fresh, healthy skin underneath. And because of its small molecule size (glycolic acid actually has the smallest molecular size among all AHAs) it is able to penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin where it can help treat everything from fine lines to uneven texture, blemishes, and of course dullness!

So now we know what glycolic acid is, what exactly are the benefits of this popular skincare ingredient?

Exfoliation

Glycolic acid is a powerful exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote cell turnover. This leads to smoother, brighter skin and can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Hyperpigmentation

Glycolic acid can help to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, such as age spots, sun damage, and melasma. It works by inhibiting the production of melanin, which is responsible for skin pigmentation.

Acne

Glycolic acid can be beneficial for those with acne-prone skin as it helps to unclog pores and reduce the production of sebum. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne.

Anti-ageing

Glycolic acid can help to stimulate collagen production, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. This can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a more youthful appearance.

What is the best way to use glycolic acid?

Glycolic acid is a potent ingredient and should be used with caution. It is important to start with a low concentration and gradually increase the strength over time. Also, because glycolic acid works by exfoliating the top layer of the skin it can increase UV sensitivity from the sun so it’s essential to use sunscreen when using glycolic acid.

There are several ways to incorporate glycolic acid into your skincare routine. It can be found in cleansers, toners, serums, and moisturizers. It is recommended to use glycolic acid once or twice a week initially, and then gradually increase the frequency as your skin becomes more accustomed to it. With regular use, this hero ingredient will help you achieve smoother, more radiant skin.

Glycolic acid products we and our customers highly recommend;

Pevonia Renewing Glycocides Cream

Combining glycolic acid with hydration hero hyaluronic acid, this treatment cream works to dissolve dead skin cells, improving skin texture and diminishing fine lines too! Skin resurfaces soother, brighter and younger…seriously.

“WOW, talk about overnight results! Minimizes my pores, smooths out my skin, and reduces redness. I’m not sure if it’s supposed to do all those things, but it’s been 2 months now since I’ve been using it every night and i LOVE this cream!” Sally O

Phytomer Emergence Even Skin Tone Refining Serum

This lightweight, refining face serum formulated with a powerful AHA formulation, visibly reduces the appearances of imperfections. It diminishes the appearance of uneven pigmentation, acne, enlarged pores and dark spots!

“On my third bottle now and loved how it made a few of my dark spots disappear. It does take a while to see the results but it’s definitely worth the price!” Vickie K

Pevonia Problematic Skincare Cream

Formulated with glycolic acid, calendula and panthenol, this beautifully light-textured and oil free cream with UV protection is excellent for preventing pore clogging and blackheads. It renders skin soothed, hydrated and desensitized.

“Great cream for problem skin! I LOVE this product. I have tried everything, and this has been the one that I will stick with. It is not too heavy and absorbs nicely.” Olive G