Derived from vinegar, TCA is the next strength in acids from glycolic. TCA is stronger and penetrates deeper into the skin compared to all the acids over the counter. The only thing stronger is a phenol peel and that can only be done in the Dermatologist office with a heart rate monitor.
But in general, salicylic acid is the most beneficial. Since salicylic acid is a BHA, it decreases the oils in the skin. This is an important step as these oils can clog pores, possibly leading to an acne breakout. Excess oils can also promote bacteria which is a common cause of acne.
Phenol peels have perhaps the strongest chemical peel solution to produce the most dramatic results, and the concentration of carbolic acid can shift or be combined with resorcinol or salicylic acid to a wonderful effect.
Glycolic acid is indeed smaller in molecular size so it technically does penetrate the skin cells (not pores) deeper than salicylic acid can. This is why glycolic acid can help with deeper skin issues such as minor hyperpigmentation and uneven skin texture.
mandelic acid molecules have a very high molecular weight so they have a harder time penetrating skin, making them more gentle. it is not as strong as glycolic or salicylic acid, which are the acids most commonly associated with the words aha and bha.
Overusing mandelic acid may also lead to irritation and breakouts from over-exfoliation. A person should also avoid getting mandelic acid in their eyes, as it may cause irritation or damage. People should consider conducting a patch test before using products with mandelic acid for the first time.
Salicylic acid
It is an exfoliating agent that removes dark spots and acne-causing bacteria along with dead skin cells that can lead to pigmentation.
Lactic acid is derived from sour milk and is milder, therefore more appropriate for sensitive skin, while glycolic acid, from sugar cane, is stronger and penetrates deeper, making it more effective for acne. Lactic acid is recommended for dry or sensitive skin, while glycolic acid suits normal to oily skin.
Everyday usage is acceptable while using a rinse-off product, like a cleanser with glycolic acid. But, while using a leave-on glycolic acid product (such as a serum, gel, cream, mask, or peel), one should only apply it one to three times per week.
A Phenol chemical peel is the most aggressive type of skin peels. A phenol peel is an effective remedy for severely sun damaged skin, deep coarse wrinkles, scars, and even pre-cancerous growths. Because a phenol peel uses carbolic acid to treat the skin, the procedure is not suitable for treating selected areas.
Depth of the glycolic acid peel depends on the concentration of the acid used, the number of coats applied, and the time for which it is applied. Hence, it can be used as a very superficial peel, or even a medium depth peel.
Around the third day, you may start to see the initial signs of peeling. Your skin might appear dry and flaky, and small pieces may begin to shed. This is a normal part of the process as the old skin is being replaced by new skin underneath.
Tretinoin had significantly superior effects in the axillary lesion group than glycolic acid (p < 0.05%). Thus, tretinoin was more efficacious in the treatment of axillary lesions.
Things to avoid when using Glycolic Acid:
Because Glycolic Acid exfoliates the top layer of the skin, we would recommend avoiding any other products that also promote skin cell turnover. This would include ingredients such as Retinoids and Copper Peptides.
SALICYLIC ACID FOR OILY AND ACNE-PRONE SKIN
This, and the ability to regulate oil production makes it effective at targeting existing blemishes and preventing breakouts, so salicylic acid is a great option for individuals with oily or mild acne-prone skin.
Glycolic acid (GA) is water-soluble and has the smallest molecular weight among all the alpha-hydroxy acids. High-concentration GA (20%–70%), applied at 2 to 4-week intervals in the hospital or cosmetology clinic, have proved effective for acne.
Both glycolic acid and retinol are active ingredients so try to avoid mixing these two directly. For best results, use glycolic acid and retinol at different times of the day. Start your skincare routine with glycolic acid-based products and follow it up with sunscreen. Consider using retinol-based products at night.
Glycolic is very small, so it is delivered deeply and fast to the skin, which has quick results but may cause irritation. Mandelic is a larger molecule that sits on the skin's surface and is slower to absorb, making it very gentle for sensitive skin and problematic skin types.
Kojic acid
Kojic acid has skin-lightening properties that can help reduce the appearance of dark patches associated with melasma. It inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color10.
L-ascorbic acid is a form of vitamin C that is easily absorbed topically. Not only will vitamin C improve the tightness of your skin, but it will also brighten it and protect it from pollutants in the environment. It's definitely an ingredient that is worth looking for.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing is the most effective non-surgical method to improve the appearance of your skin overall and hyperpigmentation specifically. It uses highly specialized lasers to remove dead and damaged skin cells and stimulate collagen production.
Three of the best vitamins for lightening dark spots are vitamin C, vitamin B12, and vitamin E. Vitamin C helps your skin produce more collagen while inhibiting the formation of melanin. Vitamin B12 also promotes collagen formation while supporting the growth of new skin cells.
Niacinamide is generally considered more effective for hyperpigmentation as it inhibits melanin production. Glycolic acid works by increasing cell turnover to reveal newer skin. Using both can provide a powerful approach.