The benefits of Glycolic Acids on your Skin

by Mike July 9, 2011

Glycolic acid has a sloughing effect on the skin;

(removal of dead cells) by accelerating the normal rate of sloughing it help the regeneration of your skin by growing new cells faster. Studies of percentages of Glycolic acid usage in commercial, over the counter cream and lotion products found that: 5% to be a good average. The reason behind this is as follow: As you increase the acid content the ph goes down. Low ph burn your skin so to raise the ph to an acceptable level you have to ad Calcium hydroxide or similar products, and it defeat the purpose of the high content of acid. Studies conducted to test the efficacy of Alpha versus Beta glycolic acid are inconclusive at best. Both acids seem to be equally effective, however the effect from Salicylic acid showed more sustained effectiveness and less adverse effect than AHA. Other studies found that the ph at which Glycolic acid is the most effective is below 4. However it may give you a burning sensation when you apply it on your skin. In medical offices up to 80% Glycolic acid have been used for peel but for the general use, I will suggest around 5% in cream and lotion and 10% in do it yourself peels. But for peels be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions conscientiously! Too long of an exposure may give you temporary redness. In rare case people have developed allergic reactions to acidic skin care products. Is my opinion that Glycolic acid is a good and beneficial ingredient in skin care, and I would recommend it as a good treatment for Acne, wrinkle and aging skin! Different brands may have different concentrations, Try different products from different manufacturers. Good luck!

More information:

http://theskinsociety.com/Home/Miracle-Lift/SKIN-WHITENING-TREATMENT.html

Michel A. Hegi PhD.