A study conducted in the US indicates that about 50 million people in the United States suffer from acne annually. It not only results in a decrease in physical appeal but also makes people suffer from severe depression and low self-esteem.
Glycolic acid is one of the effective ingredients to treat active acne. With its amazing healing properties, the component penetrates deep into the skin, preventing further breakouts and controlling the existing ones.
However before you start using it, you must acquire proper information along with the steps to usage. The same is why we have formed this ultimate guide emphasizing the usage of glycolic acid for acne, acne scars, acne-prone skin etc.
Let's begin
All you need to know for Glycolic Acid For Acne, Acne Scars, Acne Prone Skin
Why is glycolic acid important for acne-prone skin
Glycolic acid is a significant form of AHA- Alpha- Hydroxy Acid that is extracted from sugarcane. It is one of the best exfoliants known for removing dead skin cells from the skin's surface, which enhances the luminosity and overall complexion.
The smallest particle is derived from the water-soluble crop that helps to regenerate cells and retain moisture as per the skin's need.
Beneficial properties of glycolic acid for treating acne
Following are some of the amazing properties of glycolic acid that help to treat acne effectively.
- Antibacterial: According to a study conducted in 2020, glycolic acid helps to slow down the growth rate of harmful bacteria in the skin when used in a specific concentration.
- Exfoliation: Glycolic acid helps to remove the top layer of your skin. Thus removing the dead skin cells and oil by dissolving them.
- Anti-aging effects: The components have some great anti-aging properties. This helps to tighten the skin and remove fine lines. Thus providing anti-aging effects to the aging skin.
- Humectant: Humectants are substances that are used to lock the moisture in your skin. Glycolic acid is an excellent humectant that helps to deeply nourish your skin by penetrating the inner layers. As a result, you are provided with fresh, smooth and younger-looking skin.
How does glycolic acid treat acne and acne scars?
Acne is a chronic skin condition that makes skin fragile to aggressive outside elements such as dust, dirt and impurities. These external elements accumulate in your pores, thus polluting the inner environment of your skin. When left for a long time, these impurities can lead to infection and inflammation, directly leading you to face acne issues.
And that's where the glycolic acid comes in as a savior. The antibacterial properties of this component help to fight acne and scars. Being the smallest AHA, the acid penetrates deep into the skin and dissolves all the excess sebum produced. Thus paving the way for brighter and healthier-looking skin. As dead skin gets dissolved, the acne scars also lighten, and dark spots are reduced. The treatment is done in multiple ways that prevent further breakouts.
How to include glycolic acid in the skincare routine?
By this point in time, you must know how glycolic acid treats acne with its multiple beneficial properties. Nevertheless, using the components will only be of use when you know how to introduce them into your skincare routine. Here are some of the skincare products you choose with glycolic acid-infused formula
1:As cleansing face wash
Face Washes and cleaners are one of the common uses of glycolic acid for acne prone skin. These cleansers peel off the external layer of skin that is filled with pollutants and dead skin cells. Hence letting the inner and fresh skin come up.
The tiny dusty particles accumulate in the skin- especially if you have open pores, causing blackheads. When not taken care of, these blackheads and whiteheads can cause scarring on the skin's surface. However when you use a cleaner infused with glycolic acid, you deep cleanse your pores, wiping out all the debris. Thus reducing the chances of further breakout.
2: As a face masks
Facemasks are a step ahead in skin care, which lets you provide something extra to your skin. A face mask with glycolic acid corrects skin tone and improves the appearance of your skin by minimizing open pores and enhancing the skin complexion.
You can also go with a combination of products, such as a sheet mask with a combination formula, such as hyaluronic acid or aloe vera.
3: As a cream
Cream is another great way to introduce glycolic acid to the skincare. This helps to combat pollutants. If you choose the day cream with high SPF, such as SPF 60 or SPF 70, you can also save yourself from harsh radiations and vast sun exposure without burdening your skin with multiple layers.
4: As a moisturizer
Acne is caused mainly by people with oily skin. There is a common myth among oily skin people that their skin does not need to be moisturized as their skin is, anyway, not dried. However let's burst the bubble by saying that this thought is not more than a myth.
Oily skin people must understand that the sebum produced in their skin is not a hydrator. And that they must include one to ensure healthy skin.
Nevertheless, such people need to be extra careful when choosing a formation, as a little bit misleading can result in severe acne and acne scars. Glycolic acid-infused moisturizers, however, make sure to act as a humectant while not causing extra sebum production.
5: As a night cream
Incorporating glycolic acid-infused night cream is an efficient way to let glycolic acid sit on your skin for a maximum time limit. However, you need to be careful while selecting the concentration. Products in multiple concentrations are available in the market. Nevertheless, ask your dermatologist about the formula that would best suit your skin. In addition, be extra careful about the company you are investing in.
Conclusion
On the bottom line, glycolic acid is an efficient ingredient used in skin care. The content above discusses how to use Glycolic Acid For Acne, Acne Scars, Acne Prone Skin to attain maximum results.
