Glycolic acid is a natural, gentle exfoliating agent to consider using when combating sebum plugs. It works well for most skin types and is much less abrasive than many exfoliating scrubs.
Exfoliate: Use chemical exfoliants, such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid rather than physical exfoliants, to gently dissolve dead skin cells.
LA ROCHE-POSAY GLYCOLIC ACID AND SALICYLIC ACID PRODUCTS
Suitable for face and body, it contains both salicylic acid and LHA (another BHA and salicylic acid derivative). With these, it helps eliminate dead skin cells from the surface, unclog and refine pores, and reduce excess sebum.
"Glycolic acid is one of the best options for minimizing pores. It helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can lead to a reduction in their size. Plus, it can help to improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin." - Dr. David Lortscher, a board-certified dermatologist.
AHAs, including glycolic and lactic acid, are water-soluble (they dissolve in water) which makes their sloughing powers most effective in the top layer of the skin, where they can help address surface-level issues like fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and blackheads.
Salicylic acid: This is available over-the-counter for blackheads as a cleanser or lotion. It helps remove the top layer of damaged skin.
When used in hair care, glycolic acid for scalp can offer specific benefits. The dead skin buildup on the scalp is a little more because of the natural oil secretion. It also helps remove stubborn product buildup caused by shampoos and conditioners.
To clear blackheads, glycolic acid can take 3-4 weeks to take effect for clearer, congestion-free skin. This is because it takes time and repeated use for glycolic acid to break down pore-blocking dead skin cells and debris for clearer skin that doesn't have any congestion.
Unclogs pores: Salicylic acid is a gold standard ingredient for fighting acne, Green says.
It helps to remove dead skin cells, revealing a smoother, more even texture. Regular use of this glycolic acid toner promotes the appearance of more luminous and radiant skin while reducing the visibility of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.
Salicylic Acid (2%): Known for its potent exfoliating properties, salicylic acid dives deep into the pores to dissolve sebum and prevent acne formation. It also helps to reduce inflammation and redness, promoting a healthier skin texture.
The American Society for Dermatologic Study has confirmed that glycolic acid can be applied to the skin at two levels. In low or "superficial" amounts, this alpha-hydroxy acid penetrates only the outer layer of skin to gently exfoliate it and reveal the new, less damaged skin underneath.
A type of acne, sebum plugs happen when pores get clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. Sebum is oil your body produces to keep skin moist. Sebum plugs result from hormones and increased stress levels. Sebum plugs usually develop on the face, including the forehead, chin and nose.
The openings are often closed with a white plug of encrusted sebum. When called phrynoderma, the condition is associated with nutritional deficiency or malnourishment. This condition has been shown in several small-scale studies to respond well to supplementation with vitamins and fats rich in essential fatty acids.
Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 when using glycolic acid toner. Your skin will be more sensitive to sun damage. For oily, acne-prone skin, use glycolic acid toner daily to curb excess oil and keep breakouts at bay. For combination skin, start with 2-3 times a week, increasing gradually.
Libby, "AHAs/BHAs like glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids will all help exfoliate and dissolve away dead skin cells and debris, minimizing the appearance of pores and preventing them from enlarging." Using an exfoliant with both of these ingredients combines their complementary powers: While AHAs melt away dead skin ...
If you have blackheads and whiteheads, salicylic acid alone should work well to clear out your pores. If your acne tends to be inflammatory, such as papules and pustules, opt for benzoyl peroxide to stop outbreaks at the source. For sensitive skin, start with salicylic acid, since it's less likely to cause irritation.
Glycolic acid can cause irritation and redness if you have sensitive skin or overuse the product. Since glycolic acid can make your skin sensitive to the sun, remember to wear sunscreen and consider using glycolic acid at night.
Many Glycolic Acid products are leave-on treatments that absorb into your skin and work their magic! However, if you're using a Glycolic Acid Peel, you may need to rinse it off. Always follow the recommended treatment time on the individual product.
Exfoliate with Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that works as a chemical exfoliant. The acid loosens dead skin cells so you can wash them away and reveal brighter skin. In addition, glycolic acid clears away excess oil that has built up on your skin, making it less oily-looking overall.
Use glycolic acid products exclusively at night. This is important as glycolic acid, and all other AHAs increase the skin's sensitivity to UV radiation. To safeguard the freshly exfoliated skin, apply at bedtime and wear sunscreen in the morning.
“Those with darker skin tones, need to be cautious with glycolic acid,” warns Dr Buldeo. “It can cause a paradoxical darkening of the skin by stimulating melanocytes,” These are the melanin-producing cells in your skin's deepest layer so this can lead to hyperpigmentation in black skin.
6. Always moisturize after use. Glycolic acid exfoliates and hydrates the skin, but it can irritate or dry out sensitive skin. Always follow your glycolic acid application with an additional light moisturizer to reduce the effects of dryness and irritation on the skin.