Glycolic Acid FAQ
What is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliator
from the Alpha hydroxy acid family (AHA for short). Whereas physical exfoliators slough away dead skin cells using small particles (e.g., sugar, coffee grinds etc), chemical exfoliators work by dissolving the bonds that hold these cells together.
How often can you use Glycolic Acid?
It depends on the potency of the products you are using. Our glycolic acid range can be used daily – but make sure to use SPF as it can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sun. If you are new to glycolic acid, we recommend starting with 2-3 times a week.
Our glycolic acid extreme range is best used 2-3 times a week in the evening due to the higher percentages of active ingredients.
Which skin type is Glycolic Acid best suited for?
Glycolic acid can be used on most skin types but it's a particularly great exfoliator for dry or combination skin, this is because it actually helps plump the skin even further by boosting hydration levels.
What are the main benefits?
AHAs like glycolic acid, are best in terms of reducing the visible signs of ageing. That’s because glycolic acid in particular helps stimulate collagen production (a building block of skin that gives it that plump, youthful look).
Not only that, but glycolic acid also helps plump the skin even further by boosting hydration levels.
These plumping benefits mean that adding glycolic acid into your routine will result in you seeing a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.
Your skin will also be more hydrated so dryness is a thing of the past and you can kiss goodbye to uneven texture and
tone.
What is the difference between AHA and BHA?
Chemical exfoliators are broken down into three families: Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) and Poly
Hydroxy Acids (PHAs). Whilst all three break down dead skin cells, BHAs are best suited to oily prone skin thanks to their pore decongesting abilities, whereas PHAs are best for very sensitive skin as they only exfoliate the
surface layer. AHAs are
best in terms of reducing the visible signs of ageing. That’s because glycolic acid in particular helps stimulate collagen production (a building block of
skin that gives it that plump, youthful look).
When should I use it?
It depends on the formula, we indicate on our product pages whether a product can be used at night, during the day, or both. The majority of our stronger glycolic acid treatments we recommend you use at night, followed by SPF the next morning.
Which ingredients should I use with it?
Hyaluronic acid goes with everything, a great humectant that will instantly hydrate the skin, it ensures skin doesn't feel dry or tight after use. Vitamin C is also great to combine with glycolic, but not in the same routine. We would recommend using vitamin C products in your morning routine, and glycolic in the evening. They are both known for their ability to treat hyperpigmentation and improve skin texture, so they'll make a powerful combination for anyone with these specific concerns.
Is it suitable for sensitive skin?
As with any exfoliant and acids in general, it's best to start small if you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritation. If this is your first time trying glycolic acid, we suggest starting with low concentration products, starting with cleansers or day pads. If your skin is sensitive, overuse could dry out the skin, pairing glycolic with our Hyaluronic Fix Extreme4 range which deeply hydrates and soothes, is a great way to introduce your skin to the ingredient.
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