Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from sugar cane that exfoliates the skin by loosening bonds between corneocytes in the stratum corneum. It is used to improve skin texture, tone, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin irritation, stinging, or burning sensation | Common | Especially at higher concentrations or lower pH; usually transient. |
| Erythema (redness) | Common | Often mild and resolves shortly after application. |
| Dryness and flaking | Common | Related to increased exfoliation of the skin surface. |
| Increased photosensitivity | Common | Sun protection is advised as AHAs can increase UV sensitivity. |
| Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation | Uncommon | More likely in darker skin types, particularly after peels or irritation. |
| Contact dermatitis | Rare | Allergic or irritant reactions in sensitive individuals. |
| Chemical burns or blistering | Rare | Typically associated with high-concentration peels or misuse. |
| Scarring | Very rare | Associated with severe burns or improper high-strength peel application. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.