Glycolic Acid: The ultimate treatment for Blackheads
No matter how diligently you follow your skincare routine, those stubborn blackheads just refuse to leave your pores and they keep coming across our nose, chin or forehead.
However, we do have a magical blackhead eraser that can remove your blackheads and can give you a smooth canvas to work on. That’s Glycolic acid for you! Let’s know about this powerful skincare ingredient even more.
What is Glycolic Acid?
Being the structurally smallest member of the Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) family, Glycolic acid is a very effective ingredient for removing and reducing blackheads. It penetrates deep into your pores and gets rid of excess dirt, oil, sebum and pore clogging dead skin cells. Moreover, it also promotes cell turnover which means that your skin is producing new healthier cells at a rapid pace, leading to a clearer complexion. The exfoliating properties of Glycolic acid makes it a favoured ingredient in products that aim to improve skin’s tone and texture. Glycolic acid is used in high concentrations in chemical peels and is used for treating fine lines, acne, blackheads, oiliness etc.
Glycolic acid: A magic wand for Blackheads
Using Glycolic acid is a very mild and gentle way to loosen up the outer dead layer of the skin that clogs your pores. The gentle chemical exfoliants present in Glycolic acid allow the cells to come apart easier and let them gently fall off on their own without causing any irritation.
It prevents breakouts by removing the oils and dead skin cells that clog your pores. Moreover, it regulates the oil production on the face and helps your skin retain moisture.
While keeping the skin acne-free and preventing it from getting too dry, glycolic acid also helps in minimising the pore size too. The ability of Glycolic acid to rejuvenate your skin helps prevent acne scars as well and can improve skin’s texture over time.
Other skin Benefits of Glycolic acid
Glycolic acid is a multi-tasker when it comes to skincare benefits. Glycolic acid, if and when used with a plumping moisturiser, can instantly provide a smooth glow on your skin. The fact that glycolic acid opens up the pores and smooths away dead cells and oils makes it an active ingredient for most of the products.
Glycolic acid sets off collagen production which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Hence, it fights signs of aging. Moreover, when you are being constantly exposed to sun, your skin tends to carry extra pigment which can damage your skin. Glycolic acid with its exfoliation properties treats hyperpigmentation as well and can keep you safe and protected from sun damage. Adding to it, Glycolic acid brightens up your skin texture with its antioxidant properties.
Side effects of Glycolic acid
Glycolic acid is a powerful ingredient and you may experience redness and irritation on your skin after excessive use or if your skin is fragile. This calls for reducing the concentration of glycolic acid and also the frequency of application. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid Glycolic acid as it may be a little too much for their skin.