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What Is Glycolic Acid And How Can It Benefit Your Skin?

What Is Glycolic Acid And How Can It Benefit Your Skin?
Emily Cotton
Beauty Editor4 years ago
View Emily Cotton's profile

Hey Glossies! Today you’ll have opened your 13th Advent Calendar box and you’ll have been greeted with yet another must-have beauty product. And with key ingredient Glycolic Acid, today’s product will be a perfect addition to your skincare routine... 

If you haven’t opened your Advent Calendar yet today, look away now – we don’t want to ruin your surprise. 

But, if you’re already aware of what was inside box number 13, we want to share with you a bit more about the product and the incredible key ingredient it includes!

About Sunday Riley’s Good Genes Glycolic Acid Treatment 

Containing key ingredient glycolic acid, Sunday Riley’s Good Genes Glycolic Acid Treatment works to revitalise the appearance of dull, congested and sun damaged skin. Penetrating the surface of the skin with tiny glycolic acid molecules to sink deeper into the skin than any other form of AHA, this product breaks apart pore-clogging debris and repairs damaged complexions. After just one use, instant radiance and skin clarity are visible. And, balanced with fermented prickly pear extract which is perfect for sensitive skin, your complexion will also feel soothed and calm. 

What Is Glycolic Acid? 

Put into skincare terms, Glycolic acid is an AHA, or Alpha Hydroxy Acid. It’s both a water-soluble acid and an ingredient that increases the skin’s luminosity as a result of exfoliating the very top dead layer (the Stratum Corneum) of the skin. So, put simply, it’s a miracle ingredient for a brighter, more radiant complexion! 

Known for its ability to smooth dull, uneven and even acne-prone skin AND reverse the unwanted signs of ageing, this potent ingredient is found in a huge number of skincare products. While many people might choose a scrub to exfoliate their skin, Glycolic acid (when used at the right percentage and used appropriately), it's a much gentler alternative to ridding the skin of dirt, pollution and dead skin cells.

How Does Glycolic Acid Benefit Your Skin? 

Most people, whatever their skin type, can benefit from Glycolic acid.  The skin-saving ingredient specifically treats wrinkles, hyper-pigmentation, and acne prone skin, so if one or more of these is a skincare concern of yours, it's a worthy addition to your morning routine 

As we age, our skin naturally exfoliates itself slower, so a little extra helping hand can be needed – and this is where Glycolic acid steps in. First and foremost, glycolic acid is an exfoliant. It helps shed dead skin cells and reveal the newer, brighter layers underneath the dull top layer of skin. And, by stimulating collagen production, Glycolic acid also helps skin feel firmer and minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also creates a peeling effect that can make the skin appear smoother and more even! 

For people prone to breakouts, Glycolic acid’s peeling effect means there is less debris and excess oil clogging the pores. And with clearer pores comes clearer skin. And fewer breakouts is what we’re all after!

How To Use Glycolic Acid 

If you're wanting to incorporate Glycolic acid into your skincare routine at home, you’ll more than likely opt for over-the-counter products, like cleansers, serums and moisturisers - just like the Sunday Riley Good Genes Glycolic Acid Treatment you got today! 

If you have sensitive skin, we suggest you start slow. Ease yourself into a Glycolic acid routine by using one product with this key ingredient in every other day. And then slowly increase the frequency when you feel your skin can tolerate it. 

Expert tip: AHAmake your skin a lot more sensitive to the sun (and can be super drying), so ensure you definitely use sun protection every single day - no matter the time of year! 

Subscribe to GLOSSYBOX  

Disappointed to have missed out on this product as part of the 2020 GLOSSYBOX Advent Calendar? Don’t worry! Subscribe now and you’ll start receiving our monthly edition boxes instead. As a Glossy you’ll get five incredible beauty treats delivered to your door every month, as well as get access to plenty of other Glossy benefits such as discounts on our Limited Edition boxes and the GLOSSYBOX Skincare range!
Emily Cotton
Beauty Editor
View Emily Cotton's profile
I'm someone who loves getting glammed up, but I feel like I never have enough time. Frequently running between work, the gym and seeing friends means my makeup routine is quick and often touched up on the go. Therefore, beauty products that serve as multi-purpose are perfect for me - a blush that works for cheeks and lips is a must in my makeup bag!
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