Glycolic Acid and Acne
Overview of Glycolic Acid on Acne
- Glycolic acid is a broadly popular alpha hydroxyl acid that is used in a wide variety of chemical peels
- Glycolic acid is known when used over a period of time to reduce comedones, papules, and pustules.
- It can be used at high concentrations because of the low incidence of side effects
. - It is known that if glycolic acid is used over a long period of time, there is high chance for the reduction of acne scars.
- Glycolic also makes the skin more resistant to attack from ultraviolet light (thus reducing the impact of photo-aging), improves its moisture retention, and, perhaps for the same reasons, improves its general condition.
- Glycolic acid when used by itself is very good at fighting acne, however it should be noted that it is not the end all solution. It should be used together with other products, that make up an effective skin care regimen.
Glycolic Acid and the Treatment of Acne
This acid works great in acne and acne scar treatment, because of the exfoliating characteristics that it possesses. It works by being applied to the skin. Once this is done it penetrates and attacks on the bonding substance that is responsible for dead cells’ juncture beneath the first layer of skin. This juncture of dead cell is responsible for acne. Once it reaches there, it begins attacking the holding substance that allows for dead cells to clump and allow for the development of bacteria in the pores. The acid allows for the follicle to be free and clean.
This acid works great in acne scar treatment, because of the exfoliating characteristics that it possesses. It works by being applied to the skin. Once this is done it penetrates and attacks on the bonding substance that is responsible for dead cells’ juncture beneath the first layer of skin. This juncture of dead cell is responsible for acne.
Glycolic Acid & Acne Research
There was a study that was conducted years ago, that looked into the use of glycolic acid and the treatment of acne. The study used 40 individuals who all suffered from moderate to moderately severe acne. The individuals were then divided into two different groups. Each group were given a glycolic acid peel treatment at around 35% and 50% solution. The persons from the groups were also given a 15% glycolic acid solution to be used at home.
Once the study was completed, the people who participated in the study were accessed. The results showed that there was a drastic reduction in comedones, papules, and pustules. The follicular pores also became comparatively smaller. The skin also began to look revitalized and their skin also had a much lighter and brighter tone to it. Researchers also believed that if there was continuous use of the glycolic acid, there could be an improvement of acne scars and cystic lesions.
The conclusions from the study reflected that glycolic acid was an effective treatment for people who suffered from acne.
Glycolic Acid Acne Scars
Most people get acne scars when the acne die off. This can be mild or severe depending on the individual. The scars are easily identifiable as their pigment color is totally different, usually darker. Generally Alpha hydroxy acids are used to treat these types of conditions.
Glycolic acid is a popular Alpha hydroxy acid and very popular for the treatment of acne scars. The majority of skin care products contain some amount of glycolic acid in their solution. The majority of acne scar reduction products contain it as an ingredient.
Glycolic acid greatly improves the scarring left by acne as it is able to smooth the appearance of the scars. Scars arise when the pimple or cyst destroys skin tissue as the lesion progresses. In using the product, you will not see the scar get worse. Scarring will become flatter and over time they will begin to fade. Results can vary as it depends on the individual, as well as the amount of time that you use the glycolic acid product. There have been individuals who have seen results in 3 months, but typically you should see benefits after 6 months to 1 year of twice daily application of a 12-20.
This acid can be bought in various forms from lotions, gels, face masks and scrub creams. If used continuously for a month and half up to six months, you should have skin that is free from scars, or the effects should be greatly reduced.
It should be noted that using glycolic acid can make the skin very sensitive, and susceptible to sun burn. If you plan on going outside, make sure that you invest in sun screen or you should avoid going out into the sun.