By Rebecca Barnes
Looking for a certified complexion boost? Derived from sugar cane, glycolic acid is one of the most popular AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and is a potent glow-giver.With the ability to deeply penetrate the skin, it’s highly effective at helping to resurface by whisking away dead cells, boosting the brightness of your complexion and refining skin texture.
If you’d like to try glycolic acid for yourself, speak to a skin expert or practitioner who will be able to advise on a suitable glycolic product, treatment or regime for you.
To gently ease into the remarkable effects of this active exfoliant, why not start with an at home product (ideally in the evening) to help your skin build tolerance – we’ve selected some of our favourites for you to try:
The cleanser: Kate Somerville Exfolikate Daily Foaming Cleanser, cultbeauty.co.uk
This super-creamy, divine smelling cleanser contains exotic ingredients including pumpkin, papaya and pineapple. It helps wake you up, while also leaving skin looking fresh and feeling baby soft and moisturised.
The toner: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, theordinary.deciem.com
With a pH of 3.5-3.7 and containing 7% glycolic acid, amino acids, aloe vera and ginseng, this toner is a budget favourite. With added Tasmanian pepperberry which helps reduce irritation associated with acid use, the formula offers mild exfoliation for improved skin radiance and clarity. Not to be used on sensitive, peeling or compromised skin.
The mask: Ren Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask, lookfantastic.com
This fast-acting, fruity gel mask helps to reveal brighter skin thanks to its potent exfoliating action and ability to sweep away dead skin cells. Containing glycolic acid from pineapple extract and lactic acid from passion fruit, it also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while rejuvenating overall skin texture.
The serum: iS Clinical Active Serum, facethefuture.co.uk
This hardworking serum packs a real punch thanks to the inclusion of 8% glycolic acid and a natural source of salicylic acid (2%), making it a great choice for those with regular breakouts, acne or congested skin. It also works well on dark spots and ageing skin by diminishing the appearance of fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
