The Benefits Of Glycolic Acid

Having "in-between" skin can be a frustrating situation. While you may think you are too old to get acne (try telling that to your blemished skin!) and too young for wrinkles, many of us find our skin in this difficult in-between stage at some point in our lives. Is it possible to find products that can effectively treat both skin troubles - without having to double our skincare routine to include both blemish and wrinkle-fighting products?

If you haven't heard of glycolic acid before, consider this a chance to get the kind of beautifully smooth and youthful skin you've always wanted. As a naturally occurring member of the Alpha Hydroxy family, glycolic acid is ideal for "in-between" skin care. It is most commonly used to promote the production of collagen (which helps counteract wrinkles) and help the epidermis to properly shed dead skin cells without clogging pores (one of the primary causes of stubborn acne like whiteheads and blackheads), glycolic acid is the perfect addition to your skincare routine.

Glycolic acid's gentle exfoliation not only removes tired and spotted skin, it also helps the new skin maintain a youthful and clear glow. Other benefits of glycolic acid include:

• Fast acting. Alpha hydroxides have long been noted for their ability to speed up the skin renewal process, and glycolic acid certainly fits the bill by continuously renewing and exfoliating the outer layer of your skin.
• Cheap alternative. Glycolic acid is less expensive than other anti-blemish and anti-wrinkle treatments, since it is readily available in most local drugstores, supermarkets, and online. Look for peels that contain glycolic acid, and apply the treatment once or twice per week to achieve a youthful and blemish-free glow that will be the envy of all your family members and friends.

Like with all acne treatments that contain glycolic acid, it's important to consider the side effects before using any products with alpha hydroxyl. You'll need to be vigilant with sunscreen, as glycolic acid can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Additionally, your face may appear red and irritated after a few uses, which is only temporary and will fade after a few hours. You may want to consult with your dermatologist before using a skincare regimen that includes glycolic acid.