glycolic acid for hyperpigmentation: Glycolic acid: A guide to its uses and benefits

Glycolic acid is a naturally occurring organic compound and one of the most beloved skincare staples that belongs to the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family.

Numerous treatments are there to address the issue, but glycolic acid for hyperpigmentation is powerful because of its exceptional exfoliating and brightening effects.

This alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) has earned substantial appeal in the world of skincare. In this article, we look at the different forms and its benefits for hyperpigmentation and overall skin health.

What are the different forms of glycolic acids?

Different forms of glycolic acids. (Image credits: Pexels/ Alesia Kozik)

Understanding the different forms of glycolic acid is essential for choosing the right product to address your specific skincare needs. Always follow the instructions provided by the product manufacturer and consider consulting a dermatologist for personalized skincare advice. Here are a few forms of this skincare staple to pick out from:

Glycolic Acid Serum: This is one of the most common forms found in skincare products. Serums are lightweight and easily absorbed by the skin, making them suitable for daily use.

Glycolic Acid Creams and Lotions: Creams and lotions with glycolic acid provide a more moisturizing and emollient option for those with dry or sensitive skin.

Glycolic Acid Peels: These peels are more concentrated treatments typically given by dermatologists or aestheticians. They come in various strengths and are used to address specific skin concerns like deep wrinkles or severe acne scarring.

Glycolic Acid Cleansers: Some cleansers contain glycolic acid to provide a gentle exfoliation during daily cleansing routines.

Glycolic Acid Pads or Wipes: These pre-soaked pads or wipes are convenient for on-the-go exfoliation.

Benefits of Glycolic acid

Glycolic acid for armpits

Hyperpigmentation in the underarm region can be brought on by friction, shaving, and harsh deodorants, which can be uncomfortable and painful. Fortunately, glycolic offers a fabulous solution to this problem.

Gently exfoliating the skin with it helps remove dead skin cells and clear clogged pores. Regular application of glycolic products to the armpits can help lighten the darker skin and enhance the texture.

It improves absorption, as some skin care products may not completely permeate into the thicker skin beneath the armpits. However, glycolic acid's exfoliating activity enhances product absorption and increases effectiveness of additional lightening agents used on the area.

Glycolic acid for dark spots

The regular process of skin cell turnover is accelerated by glycolic acid. (Karolina Grabowska/Pexels)

Dark spots, often known as sunspots or age spots, are frequently caused by prolonged UV exposure, hormonal changes or acne scarring. It's essential in minimizing the appearance of these unsightly patches.

Glycolic speeds up the normal process of skin cell turnover. It gradually reduces dark spots by shedding older, pigmented cells and encouraging creation of fresh, new cells.

Using glycolic regularly stimulates collagen formation, improving skin suppleness and minimizing visibility of dark spots. This added benefit helps achieve a more even and youthful complexion.

Glycolic acid for skin health

The exfoliating action clears pores and reduces the frequency of acne breakouts. (Karolina Grabowska/ Pexels)

Apart from its targeted benefits for specific areas, glycolic acid also enhances overall health and appearance of the skin.

Its exfoliating effects result in smoother, more refined skin texture. Regular use can aid in reduction of fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone. It increases the skin's ability to retain moisture by removing dead skin cells and enabling greater water retention, resulting in a more moisturized and plump complexion.

The exfoliating action helps clear pores and minimize the prevalence of acne breakouts, making it ideal for people with both hyperpigmentation and acne-prone skin.

Glycolic acid is undeniably a powerful ally in the battle against hyperpigmentation. Its exfoliating and skin-renewing properties make it an effective option for addressing dark spots, uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation in sensitive areas like the armpits.

However, it's crucial to use glycolic acid products with care, especially if you have sensitive skin, to avoid irritation or over-exfoliation. As with any skincare treatment, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine the right concentration and usage frequency that suits your skin needs.

With consistent and proper use, glycolic can be a game-changer in your journey towards achieving a brighter, more even complexion.