The Ultimate Guide to The Ordinary Glycolic Acid: Benefits, Use, and Results

When it comes to skincare, finding the right products can feel overwhelming. While ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid are often lauded for their benefits, there’s another ingredient that has been gaining popularity in recent years: glycolic acid. Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), a type of acid that can help to exfoliate the skin and improve its texture.

What is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is a colorless, odorless, water-soluble alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that occurs naturally in sugar cane.

How does Glycolic Acid work?

Glycolic acid works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily sloughed away. This reveals the fresh, healthy skin underneath and can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin. Glycolic acid can also help to increase collagen production in the skin, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Benefits of using Glycolic Acid in your Skincare Routine

• Exfoliation: Glycolic acid is a powerful exfoliant that can help to slough away dead skin cells and reveal a smoother, brighter complexion.
• Anti-Aging: Glycolic acid can help to stimulate collagen production, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Brightening: The exfoliating action of glycolic acid can also help to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
• Acne-Fighting: Glycolic acid can also help to unclog pores and reduce the risk of breakouts by removing dead skin cells and excess oil.

How to Incorporate Glycolic Acid into Your Skincare Routine

If you’re interested in incorporating glycolic acid into your skincare routine, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to start slow and gradually introduce the ingredient to your skin. Some people may experience irritation or redness when using glycolic acid, so it’s important to listen to your skin and adjust your usage accordingly.

One easy way to incorporate glycolic acid into your routine is through the use of a glycolic acid toner. Simply apply the toner to your skin after cleansing, using a cotton pad, and follow up with your usual moisturizer.

Another option is to use a glycolic acid serum or cream. These products can be applied after cleansing and toning and can help to provide deeper hydration and anti-aging benefits.

Products featuring Glycolic Acid

• The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: This toner is a cult favorite, featuring 7% glycolic acid and soothing aloe vera to exfoliate, brighten, and hydrate the skin.
• Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment: While this product features lactic acid instead of glycolic acid, it’s still a great option for those looking for a powerful exfoliant. It also contains hydrating ingredients like aloe vera and squalane to keep skin nourished.
• Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel: This glycolic acid gel is formulated with 8% glycolic acid and other AHAs to gently exfoliate and brighten the skin. It can be used all over, or as a spot treatment.

Overall, glycolic acid can be a great ingredient to incorporate into your skincare routine, whether you’re looking for an effective exfoliant or anti-aging benefits. Just remember to start slow, listen to your skin, and enjoy the benefits of this powerful ingredient!