Knowing how to use Glycolic acid properly will ensure you get the amazing benefits and none of the unwanted side effects. Some people purchase the highest percentage they can find and use that - thinking the higher concentration could gives better and faster result. This isn't true. The skin that isn't used to Glycolic acid or is already sensitized will react differently.


So what is the best way of using Glycolic acid?

♥ you may need to start with a product containing between 5 to 8% concentration - Alpha-H Liquid Gold with Glycolic Acid has 5% concentration.
♥ a daily exfoliator is one of the best choices as it provides consistency of usage and the right way to build up your skin's tolerance.
♥ monitor how your skin react - if it becomes red or irritated, reduce usage to once every 2 or 3 days for a couple of weeks.
♥ increase application frequency or time left on skin if your skin no longer reacts as it did at the beginning (some tingling sensation is less or there's no redness)
♥ monitor your skin again! You may not need to increase anything; plenty of people find using a good product with 5 to 8% concentration every day is enough to keep skin healthy and clear of blackheads and fine lines.
♥ do not forget to apply sunscreen everyday!


The importance of concentration and build up,

Over the counter products containing Glycolic acid range in concentration from 1% to 30%. However the chemical peels perfomes by dermatologist range from 30% to 70%. In order to get the benefits of using Glycolic acid at home, it is recommended to use a low percentage consistently as part of your skin care routine to get great result.

♥ evaluate how your skin feels while you use it - a mild tingling sensation is normal the first few times and it is an indication the product is working under your skin. It should not be painful or cause peeling/flaking after using it.
♥ if this is too much, decrease the usage to every second day - some people may need to start at every few days. This is fine, as long as you 'listen' to the skin.
♥ after 3 or 4 weeks you can increase the frequency or application time, because by now the skin is used to the acid and will be able to handle higher concentrations. However this is optional - regular use of your favorite product containing 5 to 8% concentration is absolutely fine!
♥ some people claim anything lower than 20% concentration isn't worth doing - but bear in mind, this is dangerous as it can cause long term damage to the skin if it not used correctly. Low dosage consistently work best at restoring normal health, keeping it clear and providing a fresh glow to the skin.



So who would benefits from this? Everyone of us should benefit from using Glycolic acid, however, do not use if you:

♥ are or recently stopped using Retin-A products
♥ have recently had a microdermabrasion treatment
♥ use sunbeds or are in the sun frequently without adequate protection
♥ have thinned or sensitized skin

Using Glycolic acid in your normal skincare routines is easy once you know how and the importance of building up your skin's tolerance. Remember, nothing beats consistency in skincare and this is especially true when it comes to using AHA products. It can remarkably improve the skin condition by balancing the acid mantle, providing an even and deep exfoliation and increasing the cell turnover which is resulting in a healthy fresh face.

Note: This is the continuous part of my recent post on Glycolic acid. Feel free to check out the previous post here.