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    Glycolic Acid

    /gly-KOLL-ik/

    Definition

    An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane, used for chemical exfoliation. The smallest AHA molecule, it penetrates skin most effectively.

    Glycolic acid is the most widely used alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) in skincare and professional treatments. Derived from sugarcane, it has the smallest molecular size of all AHAs, which means it penetrates the skin more effectively and delivers more dramatic results — but can also cause more irritation if used incorrectly.

    How It Works

    Glycolic acid works by dissolving the desmosome bonds that hold dead skin cells together on the skin's surface. This accelerates cell turnover, revealing fresher, brighter skin underneath. At higher concentrations (20–70%), used in professional chemical peels, it penetrates deeper to stimulate collagen production and treat hyperpigmentation.

    Professional vs. At-Home Use

    • At-home products (5–10%): Gentle daily exfoliation; good for maintenance between professional treatments
    • Professional peels (20–50%): Applied by a licensed esthetician for deeper exfoliation and resurfacing; performed at SKIN Las Vegas as part of our chemical peel treatments
    • Medical-grade peels (50–70%): Deepest penetration; significant results for scarring and sun damage but require professional supervision

    Related Terms

    Chemical Peel

    A skin treatment that uses controlled acid solutions to remove damaged outer layers, revealing smoother, more even skin underneath.

    Hyperpigmentation

    A condition where patches of skin become darker than surrounding areas due to excess melanin production. Caused by sun exposure, hormones, or inflammation.

    Exfoliation

    The process of removing dead skin cells from the skin's surface, either physically (scrubs, devices) or chemically (acids, enzymes) to reveal fresher skin.

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