A-Z — Glycolic Acid

Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)

Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) — the family name for a group of naturally occurring acids often referred to as “fruit acids.”  AHAs are used in cosmetics as moisturizers, emollients, and exfoliants. They are also employed to treat such conditions as photodamage, hyperpigmentation, eczema, and ichthyosis. Their activity and associated benefits are dependent on the type of AHA used, the concentration employed, and the pH of the formula. The benefits attributed to AHAs include a reduction of fine lines and superficial wrinkles, a lightening of surface pigmentation, and softer, suppler skin with improved hydration. These noted benefits are a result of...

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Glycolic acid

Glycolic acid (hydroxyacetic acid) — the most commonly used form of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and one of the most effective ingredients in today’s skin-rejuvenation business. It works on both the epidermis and dermis. Scientists and formulators believe glycolic acid has greater penetration potential largely due to its smaller molecular weight. Glycolic Acid dissolves the “glue” that holds dead skin cells together in the epidermis, reduces corneocyte cohesion, allowing these dead skin cells to be easily dissolved or exfoliated to reveal new skin underneath and eventually building the thickness of the epidermis. In the dermis, it increases ground substance (boosts collagen...

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