Glycolic acid 10 g

Glycolic acid - gentle exfoliation and skin lightening

Glycolic acid is a white powder that is well soluble in water. The raw material for its production is sugar cane. Glycolic acid belongs to the category of AHA-acids, and it is considered one of the mildest. This active is simply necessary for those who have hyperpigmentation, rashes, enlarged pores, acne scars and post-acne, especially in combination with sensitive skin. Using glycolic acid literally gives the skin a glowing appearance as it is good at exfoliating dead cells of the stratum corneum, while renewing the skin and levelling its micro-relief.

For precautions on the use of cosmetic acids, read the article from Beurre "Precautions when working with AHA/BHA acids".

Characteristics of the component and specifics of use

INCI: Glycolic acid

Appearance: white crystalline powder

Dosage (percentage of input into cosmetics): 0,5 - 5%. For professional use up to 12% is allowed.

• for creams, tonics, scrubs - maximum 5%
• for peelings - maximum 12%.

Solubility: in water, alcohol, ether

Storage: long-term storage is recommended in a dark, dry place at room temperature.

Glycolic acid properties for different skin types

Application for ageing skin

Glycolic acid is used for gentle exfoliation of the skin. Using products with glycolic acid for ageing skin helps to significantly brighten the face, get rid of age spots and eliminate fine lines due to the renewal of the stratum corneum. Glycolic acid stimulates the dermis to produce its own collagen and hyaluronic acid, which makes the skin more elastic and moisturised. In addition, as we age, the process of renewal and exfoliation is slower glycolic acid helps to solve this problem.
 

Application for oily skin

For oily and problem skin, the use of glycolic acid solves the problem of hyperkeratosis (excessive formation of dead horny scales), normalises the work of sebaceous glands. It eliminates inflammatory processes and prevents the formation of new pimples and comedones, as it cleans clogged pores and sebaceous glands from blocking them dead scales of the horny layer, it is in this case to remove impurities with a simple surfactant means will not work. This active is good for removing acne marks and post-acne.
 

Application for sensitive skin

For sensitive skin, deep cleansing and exfoliation are no less important than for other skin types. And it is glycolic acid that can be used in this case, as it is the mildest and the skin reaction will not be as strong as with other acids. But before using products with glycolic acid, a sensitivity test should be done on a small area of the skin.
 

Glycolic acid for hair and cuticles

Glycolic acid can be used not only for the face. It can be added to hair products, as glycolic strengthens the hair, reduces the effects of hair dryer use and the environment. Glycolic acid can also be used for the scalp, as it gently exfoliates keratinised particles, removes excess sebum, improves blood flow to the hair follicles. Glycolic acid simplifies the removal of cuticle, as it strongly softens it and moisturises the nail plate, nails look healthy and well-groomed after its use.
 

The main functions in cosmetics

• Rejuvenation
• Exfoliation
• Regeneration
• Brightening pigmentation
• Normalisation of sebum
• Normalisation of sebaceous gland function
• Elimination of acne scars and post-acne.
   

How to use glycolic acid

Most often in cosmetics, glycolic acid is used as a component for cleansers. It is added to wash, toner, toner and, of course, peeling, and both in monovariant and in combination with other acids. Glycolic acid is most often sold in pharmacies in the form of a 70% solution. Such a solution can be used in its pure form only in a cosmetology office as a professional chemical peeling, and necessarily with the use of a neutraliser.
 

Recommended dosages of glycolic acid in cosmetics

In cosmetics for home use, a dosage of up to 10% glycolic acid is allowed. This is the concentration at which neutralisation occurs simply by washing off with water. Such products are used every day or every other day in a course. However, if the skin is sensitive, the concentration should be no more than 4-5%. Dilute the acid in water until the powder is completely dissolved. However, take into account the fact that glycolic acid strongly reduces pH, so carefully monitor the acidity level of the finished product and raise it with an alkaline solution or other substances.

Dosages for use in cosmetics:

• Facial skin care - 1-5 %
• Peeling serum up to 10 %
• Skin brightening 2-3 %
• Hair care products 0,5 -1 %
• Anti-ageing care - up to 5 %
• Cuticle care up to 5 %.
   

Glycolic acid: precautions and skin reactions

To avoid causing harm and burns to sensitive skin, it is recommended to start with a small percentage and gradually increase the concentration, observing skin reactions. There should be no redness or irritation after using glycolic acid. Glycolic acid can also be used in summer. But remember that it increases the photosensitivity of the skin. Procedures are recommended to do at night, and in the morning use sunscreen with SPF at least 15. Products with glycolic acid can be used during pregnancy. Before using products containing glycolic acid, carefully review the FDA guidelines regarding the use of AHA acids.

Handmade cosmetics recipes, formulas and reviews

It is very difficult to create your own correct recipes if you are new to cream maker. And we are ready to help you with this. Go to the YouTube channel Beurre Cosmetic Kitchen, where we have already developed many recipes for handmade cosmetics and share the technology for making cosmetics with our own hands. And also you can check Blog from Beurre, where we share useful information about creating the right natural cosmetics.