Glycolic Acid is a powerful, radiance-boosting chemical exfoliant and a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). While beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), such as salicylic acid, penetrate pores more deeply, Glycolic Acid scours the surface of the skin, ridding it of excess oil, impurities, and dead skin cells.
When these two popular acids are paired in clarifying cleansers, they can transform the skin’s texture and tone.
To learn more about Glycolic Acid, check out our ultimate guide What Is Glycolic Acid and How Do I Use It?
Glycolic Acid is an amazing anti-ageing ingredient that stimulates the skin’s healing process, promoting collagen and elastin production. As a brilliant brightening surface exfoliant, Glycolic Acid also targets sun damage, dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and dullness.
This ingredient is also perfect if you’re trying to rebalance moisture in your skin and boost your natural glow.
Being quite a potent ingredient, especially in formulations above 8%, Glycolic Acid can be harsh on sensitive skin types. Those with sensitivity may want to try cleansers with milder formulations or opt instead for lactic acid, an AHA that moisturises while it gently exfoliates. To discover more, check out our guide The 10 Best Cleansers for Sensitive Skin.
If you're unsure of your skin type, check out the video below as Amy explains how to work out your skin type...