Glycolic acid is a type of acid derived from sugarcane and other sweet, colorless and odorless vegetables whose properties have an exfoliating, moisturizing, whitening, anti-acne and rejuvenating effect, and can be used in the composition of creams and lotions for use daily, or may have stronger concentration for the performance of peels.
The products can be handled from the prescription or can be sold in stores and pharmacies, and several brands may contain this acid are Hinode, Whiteskin, Demelan Whitening Cream, Derma AHA or Normaderm, for example, with prices that vary accordingly with the brand and with the quantity of the product, being able to vary between about 25 to 200 reais.
What is it for
Some of the main effects of glycolic acid are:
- Skin rejuvenation, by being able to exfoliate and stimulate the synthesis of collagen;
- Lightening of blemishes such as acne, melasma or sun-induced blemishes . Check out also the main treatments or natural ways to lighten the skin;
- Make the skin thinner and silky ;
- Treatment of stretch marks . Also know the other treatment options for stretch marks;
- Remove excess dead cells .
With the removal of dead cells, this acid facilitates the absorption of other substances used in the skin, such as moisturizers or bleaching, for example. Preferably, treatment with glycolic acid should be indicated by the dermatologist, who will be able to guide the ideal form of use and quantity for each type of skin.
How to use
When used in cosmetic products, in the form of creams or lotions, glycolic acid is found in concentrations of 1 to 10% and should be used daily at bedtime or as directed by a physician.
When used in the form of peeling, glycolic acid is usually applied in the concentration of 20 to 70%, and may have a smoother or more intense effect for the removal of the cell layer, according to the needs and skin type of each person . Understand better what is chemical peeling, how it is made and its effects.
Possible side effects
Although glycolic acid is a relatively safe product, in some people it can cause side effects such as redness, burning, sensitivity to light, burning sensation of the skin and, if it causes lesions, cause hypertrophic scars.
To avoid these unwanted effects, it is advised that any skin treatment is indicated by the dermatologist, who will know how to evaluate the skin type and what should be done safely for each person.
