Glycolic acid is a type of acid derived from sugar cane and other sweet, colorless and odorless vegetables, whose properties have exfoliating, moisturizing, bleaching, anti-acne and rejuvenating effect, and can be used in the composition of creams and lotions, for daily use, or may have a higher concentration for exfoliations.
Some of the main effects of glycolic acid are
With the removal of dead cells, this acid facilitates the absorption of other substances used in the skin, such as moisturizers or sugars, for example. Preferably, treatment with glycolic acid should be indicated by a dermatologist, who will guide the ideal form of use and quantity for each skin type.
When used in cosmetic products, in the form of creams or lotions, glycolic acid is in concentrations of 1 to 10%, and should be used daily at bedtime or according to medical advice.
When used as a peeling, glycolic acid is usually applied at a concentration of 20 to 70%, and may have a milder or more intense effect to remove the cell layer, depending on the needs and skin type of each person. . To better understand what chemical peeling is, how it is performed and its effects.
Although glycolic acid is a relatively safe product, it can cause side effects in some people, such as redness, burns, light sensitivity, skin burns and, if injury, cause hypertrophic scarring.
To avoid these side effects, it is recommended that any skin treatment be indicated by a dermatologist, who will be able to evaluate the type of skin and what should be done safely for each person.