The ordinary glycolic acid

Types of the ordinary glycolic acid

The ordinary glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates the skin. It is available in different types, which include:

• Glycolic acid toners

  A glycolic acid toner is a liquid skincare product applied to the skin after cleansing and before moisturizing. It contains glycolic acid as an active ingredient, which helps exfoliate dead skin cells, promoting a smoother complexion. The ordinary glycolic acid toner has other beneficial ingredients like rosewater, which soothes the skin, and ginseng, which rejuvenates the skin.

  Using glycolic acid toners can help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, enhance product absorption, balance oil production, and improve skin texture and brightness. However, they can be drying, so users should moisturize after use. Also, they are only used at night.

• Glycolic acid cleansers

  A glycolic cleanser is a face wash or cleanser containing glycolic acid. It helps remove makeup, dirt, oil, and other impurities from the skin. Glycolic acid cleansers gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and preventing clogged pores.

  The ordinary glycolic acid cleanser is available in different forms, including lotion, gel, cream, oil, and bar soap. It helps improve skin texture, increase brightness and clarity, and reduce acne breakouts and blackheads.

  However, buyers should choose a cleanser with a glycolic acid concentration of 5% or less for gentle exfoliation. Also, they should use sunscreen during the day because glycolic acid makes the skin more sensitive to the sun.

• Glycolic acid peels

  A glycolic acid peel is a skincare product with glycolic acid to exfoliate the skin. When applied, it dissolves the bonds that hold dead skin cells to the surface, promoting their removal. This process reveals fresher, smoother skin underneath. The ordinary glycolic acid peel is available in different forms, including masks, creams, lotions, pads, and gels.

  Using glycolic acid peels can help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, enhance the effectiveness of other skincare products, and treat conditions like acne, blackheads, and uneven pigmentation. Peels are offered in varying concentrations and are categorized into superficial, medium, and deep peels.

• Glycolic acid serums

  A glycolic serum is a skincare product with glycolic acid as its main active ingredient. It is usually thicker than toners but lighter than creams. The ordinary glycolic acid serum offers many benefits, including increasing skin firmness, treating hyperpigmentation, reducing enlarged pores, and improving skin glow.

  However, it is recommended for nighttime use only. Buyers should choose serums with 10% or lower concentrations for beginners.

How to choose the ordinary glycolic acid

There are various glycolic acid products on the market. Below are some vital factors to consider before purchasing.

• Concentration

  The ordinary glycolic acid toners come in different concentrations. Beginners should start with low concentrations, like 5% and below. They can gradually move up as the skin adapts to the acid. High concentrations (10% and above) are for advanced users who have gotten used to glycolic acid.

• Form

  Glycolic acid is available in different forms. The most common are lotions, creams, cleansers, and peels. Buyers should select an option that best suits their needs. For instance, people who do intensive exfoliation work with glycolic acid peels. Those who do mild exfoliation can use glycolic acid lotions and toners.

• Skin type and concerns

  Buyers should select products specially formulated for their skin type. There are glycolic acid products for oily, dry, sensitive, and combination skin. Additionally, some glycolic acid products target fine lines and wrinkles. Others help to reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Buyers should choose products that best address their concerns.

• Other active ingredients

  Glycolic acid is combined with other active ingredients in some products. This helps to address different skin concerns simultaneously. Some other active ingredients include hyaluronic acid, which hydrates the skin, and niacinamide, which helps to minimize pores and regulate oil production.

• Brand reputation

  There are many brands and manufacturers of glycolic acid. Buyers should research the brand to know its history, reputation, and customer feedback. The information will help buyers make informed decisions.

• Price

  Glycolic acid is available at different price points. While some offer premium prices, others offer more affordable rates. Buyers should consider their budget and needs before making any purchase.

How to use and product safety

The ordinary glycolic acid is a popular skincare product that helps to exfoliate dead skin cells. The following guidelines will help users get the best results from this product.

• Cleanse

  First, wash the face with a gentle cleanser. Use warm water to remove any dirt or oil from the skin. Do not use soap-based cleansers, which can dry the skin. Soap-based cleansers can also disrupt the skin's natural barrier.

• Apply the glycolic acid toner

  After cleansing, shake the glycolic acid toner bottle. Then, soak a cotton pad with the toner. Apply the toner to the face gently. Focus on areas prone to oil or dead skin buildup. Avoid the eye area when applying the toner. Wait for the product to dry before applying other skincare products.

• Moisturize

  Apply a moisturizer to the face after the toner has dried. This will help to keep the skin hydrated. It also protects the skin from the effects of the glycolic acid. Use a gentle, moisturizer-based product.

• Use sunscreen

  Glycolic acid makes the skin more sensitive to the sun. Therefore, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. The sunscreen will offer the skin protection from UV radiation. Use a minimum SPF of 30.

Product Safety

The ordinary glycolic acid is a safe product when used as directed. The manufacturer advises users to start with a low concentration. For instance, they can use 7% glycolic acid before moving to higher concentrations. Users should also use the product sparingly. Use the toner once per week and increase the frequency gradually. Avoid using other strong exfoliants or irritants like retinol. Users should also do a patch test before using the product. Apply a small amount on the wrist and observe for any reaction after 24 hours. The product is safe for use if there is no itching, redness, or swelling.

Functions, features, and design of The Ordinary glycolic acid

The ordinary glycolic acid has numerous features and functions that meet the needs of different skin types.

• Glycolic acid

  Glycolic acid is the main ingredient in these ordinary products. It is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates the skin. It improves texture and brightness by removing dead skin cells from the surface. This prepares the skin for better product absorption. The acid also increases collagen production, giving the skin a firm and youthful appearance. Products with glycolic acid improve the overall look of the skin, making it smooth and radiant.

• pH level

  The pH level of this glycolic acid toner is between 4.0 and 5.0. It is slightly acidic, like the skin. Products with a higher pH are less effective, while those with a lower pH are more irritating.

• Different concentrations of glycolic acid

  The ordinary glycolic acid comes in different concentrations of glycolic acid. Those with a higher concentration provide a deeper exfoliation. They are ideal for people with serious skin concerns and those who are used to glycolic acid. A lower concentration is for people with sensitive skin or those who are just starting to use glycolic acid.

• Formulation

  The ordinary glycolic acid is formulated as toners, serums, and creams. They are simple to include in a skincare routine. The ordinary makes formulations that meet different skin needs and concerns.

• Added vitamins and ingredients

  Some ordinary glycolic acid products have additional vitamins and ingredients. They include niacinamide, zinc, and retinol. These added ingredients enhance the benefits of glycolic acid. For instance, niacinamide reduces skin inflammation. It also minimizes the appearance of pores, making the skin glow.

• Vegan and cruelty-free

  The ordinary glycolic acid is vegan and cruelty-free. It doesn't contain any animal products. The manufacturers also don't test the products on animals.

Q&A

Q1. Can The Ordinary Glycolic Acid cause purging?

A1. Purging happens when a product speeds up the skin's cell turnover. It brings the newer cells to the surface faster, which can cause older impurities to surface as pimples. But after a few uses, the skin will look better. Glycolic acid can cause this purging because it increases turnover. But once it clears out the old debris, it will give a smooth, clearer complexion.

Q2. Is glycolic acid good for dark spots?

A2. Glycolic acid is effective for treating dark spots or hyperpigmentation. It speeds up the shedding of skin cells. This causes the top layer to shed faster, which helps fade dark spots and improve skin tone. It is not as strong as other treatments like vitamin C and kojic acid, but it is good for gently exfoliating to brighten and clear dark spots over time.

Q3. Should glycolic acid be used daily?

A3. It is best to start using glycolic acid 1-2 times a week and increase as tolerated. Most people find it works well daily or every other day. But some may need less exfoliating, such as 2-3 times weekly. The key is to listen to the skin. If it looks red, feels itchy, or gets dry, drop down the usage. Each person needs a different amount based on how their skin responds.

Q4. Does glycolic acid help acne?

A4. Glycolic acid can help acne. It prevents new acne by stopping clogged pores through exfoliation. It also speeds up the healing of existing pimples and scars by removing dead skin more quickly. This leaves the skin looking clearer and smoother. So, glycolic acid is an effective acne treatment that reduces breakouts and improves the texture of acne-prone skin.