166195966Glycolic Acid, more widely known as an Alpha Hydroxy Acid, is derived from sugar cane and other natural sources. Glycolic Acid can be found in array of skin care products, including cleansers, serums, creams and peels. This extraordinary acid is generally used as an exfoliating ingredient in skin treatments for anti aging and other skin conditions like acne. Glycolic Acid can be manufactured/processed in different strengths and formulations, ranging from a 2% all the way up to a 70% strength. Any products in the higher percentage rates, normally higher than 20%, are usually part of a professional treatment peel. These kind of invasive skin treatments must be supervised by a professional or even a dermatologist/doctor. In most “home use” professional skin care products, the percentage of Glycolic Acid is lower and therefore safe for at home use.

So what does Glycolic Acid actually do to the skin? Glycolic acts as an exfoliate, breaking down the glue like bonds that hold the surface skin cells together. This process breaks the cells apart and sheds them off (increasing the cell turnover rate) to reveal smoother and healthier skin. Once properly exfoliated either by cream, cleanser, gel, beads or even a peel, the skin is sloughed off, giving the appearance of smaller pores. Wrinkles and lines are smoothed out and skin tone becomes radiant. Glycolic Acid also has the ability to help lighten dark pigmentation skin issues, including sun damage and acne scarring. Glycolic Acid can actually penetrate deeper than most ingredients, right into the dermal layer, where collagen and elastin are produced. It also acts as a water binding agent, penetrating deep into the dermis, allowing skin to become more plump. This is why glycolic treatments are perfect needed for results driven anti aging regimens.

So, what are the most effective Glycolic Acid products, you ask? There are many great products and it can be hard to choose which products fit the individual, for maximum benefit. Which product has the most unbuffered percentage? Which one has a gentle PH for sensitive skin? To answer these great questions, professional skincare advice is recommended. In any event, here are a few products, made safe for “at home” and every day use, that utilize the incredible benefits of Glyolic Acid.

Glymed Plus Gentle Facial Wash actually contains 10% Glycolic Acid, yet it is gentle enough for everyday use. It also contains Glycerin, which is a humectant (improves hydration) and it protects the skin. This great product provides skin with increased cell turnover, in addition to a deep clean. It prepares the skin for absorption and penetration of other professional treatment products. Even though its powerful, this cleanser is gentle enough for the most sensitive skin types.

For an intense “at home” Anti Aging treatment, the Glymed Plus Anti Aging Exfoliant Masque provides users with the benefits of skin resurfacing, which promotes and reveals extremely polished, radiantly glowing skin. It gently removes surface buildup and refreshes skin, for improved texture. It even improves skin firmness. For a thorough cleansing, you can apply the product to the face and neck area, then leave it on for a few minutes. The results are spectacularly clean. Although this product contains Glycolic Acid and other Aha's, it’s gentle enough to be used every day. For thicker, more dull skin types, this mask should be used as a 3 times per week treatment.

One of the most effective products for short term or long term skin treatments is the iS Clinical Skincare Active Serum. This Glycolic Acid based product is very popular, due to its effectual quality. It has a PH of 3.8, which promotes more activity on the skin, providing maximum results. iS Clinical Active Serum is just that, “Active”. Results are felt and seen immediately. Over time, this powerful product promotes skin improvement results for hyperpigmentation, fine line and wrinkle reduction and acne scaring diminishment. iS Clinical Active Serum motivates the skin!

At SkinTrends, Expert Service Estheticians have the knowledge to assist clients in finding the right Glycolic Acid product for their specific skin care needs. Whether you need an active intense product or a gentle, more subtle one, SkinTrends is here to guide you.

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