If your skin has been feeling more dull than glowy, glycolic acid might just be your new skincare sidekick. Found in everything from toners to face washes, this buzzy ingredient has earned its reputation for turning dull, acne-prone skin into a smoother, brighter version of itself.
What makes glycolic acid special is that it’s an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane, and according to the Cleveland Clinic, it’s one of the smallest AHAs, meaning it can penetrate the skin more deeply and effectively. Once it’s in there, it is believed to work like a mini exfoliation squad, dissolving dead skin cells that sit on the surface, clog pores, and make your complexion look tired.
For those dealing with stubborn breakouts, glycolic acid can help clear up acne by preventing pores from becoming congested in the first place, according to Healthline. It’s also been shown to support collagen production, which means firmer skin over time—a bonus, mentioned in the above health publication.
However, like all superheroes, glycolic acid has a bit of a wild side. According to Harvard Health Publishing, it can cause irritation or dryness if overused, especially for sensitive skin types. That’s why this health source recommends starting slow—think once or twice a week—and always pairing it with a good moisturiser and sunscreen, because exfoliated skin is more sun-sensitive, and you definitely don’t want to trade dullness for sun damage.
You don’t need a dermatologist on speed dial to give it a try. Glycolic acid is readily available in drugstore products and fancy serums alike.
So if your skin’s been feeling a little flat and your selfies are missing that dewy magic, glow ahead—give glycolic acid a whirl. Just glow gently, and let the results shine through.
Also see: Daily habits that could secretly be harming your hair and skin
