Aging is an inevitable process and as we age our skin naturally lowers the rate of shedding skin cells and which results in accumulation of dead skin cells. With time this makes the skin complexion dull, uneven and less radiant.
Moreover fine lines or wrinkles also become more noticeable to naked eyes and the fresh look from the skin also reduces. This is where a gentle exfoliating ingredient such as glycolic acid plays a vital role in tackling this situation.
A glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid which allows it to dive deeper into the skin and remove the accumulated dead skin cells from the skin and prevents fine line while also giving a brighter skin complexion.
Therefore, this blog we will focus on what is glycolic acid, how it benefits for an anti-aging routine, tips to use it safely, simple anti-aging skincare regimen and mistakes to avoid which will help you to build an effective anti-aging routine that helps supporting the smooth, brighter and youthful skin for a long time.
What is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is famous for its gentle cleanser properties. It is an alpha-hydroxy acid which is soluble in water and is mainly a subsidiary of sugarcane. It is widely used in cosmetic products as a gentle chemical exfoliant as it can dive deeper into the skin due to its smaller molecular size.
With age, our skin started losing the power of cellular renewal. This is why a glycolic acid face wash helps as it gently dissolves the bonds holding the dead skin cells that instantly removes the accumulated dead skin cell and is replaced by new and fresh cells and it also boosts the rate of skin cell turnover by increasing the collagen production.
In addition, unlike physical exfoliants which constantly rely on scrubbing and can even cause skin peeling, glycolic acid is a safer alternative as it gently exfoliates the skin without causing any further harm.
Benefits Of Using the Cleanser
A glycolic acid can be a great option in an anti-aging skincare regimen as it offers the below benefits to users.
1. Improves Skin Texture
As we age, the shedding of skin cells reduces which results in accumulation of dead skin cells on the skin surface and makes the skin texture rough.
However a glycolic acid face wash can help by gently exfoliating the outer layer of the skin which also removes the build up of dead skin cells which improves the skin texture.
2. Brightens Skin Complexion
In the modern world, our skin is constantly exposed to sun, dust, sweat, pollution and other irritants which gives the skin a dull appearance.
But glycolic acid aids in removing the excess oil, dead skin cells and other impurities from the skin’s outer surface which gives skin a brighter skin complexion.
3. Reduces Uneven Skin Tone
Excessive sun exposure and pollution are proven to contribute to tanning, dark spots and uneven skin tone.
Hence a glycolic acid face wash becomes a great option as it helps in speeding the skin’s cell turnover rate which helps in reducing the uneven skin tone.
4. Improves Products Absorption
As shedding happens slowly with age it results in accumulation of dead skin cells which further acts as a layer due to which the skincare products are unable to absorb properly into the skin.
However the glycolic acid face wash helps in removing the layer of accumulated dead skin cells which helps the skincare products to sink properly into the skin.
How to Face Wash Safely?
Glycolic acid may harm the skin if it is not used properly. So consider these following steps while using the glycolic acid face wash to use it safely.
- If you have just introduced glycolic acid then start by using it 2 or 3 times a week and then increase gradually if the skin feels fine.
- Look for a face wash with 3-7% glycolic acid concentration for your frequent use.
- Softly massage the cleanser on the face in the circular motion for about 1-2 minutes and clear off the cleanser residue with lukewarm water.
- Use a clean towel when drying your cleansed face.
- Apply a gentle, hydrating moisturizer after cleansing your face.
Simple Routine
Anti-aging routine should not be complicated and should be simple. So you can consider the following routine in your daily life.
Morning Routine
- Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser which helps in removing the excess oil, dust and impurities.
- Use an oil free and non-comedogenic moisturizer on the cleansed skin to keep the skin hydrated.
- Layer it with a sunscreen of spf 30 or above with a broad spectrum which helps in protecting your skin from UV rays.
Night Routine
- At night use a glycolic acid face which helps in removing the accumulated dead skin cells.
- Apply pea sized amounts of retinol on the face which speed up cell turnover and boost collagen.
- Apply hydrating moisturize after applying the retinol.
- Make sure you slowly introduce retinol and glycolic acid in the skin care routine and use it on alternate days to avoid any side effects.
Mistakes To Avoid
- Using too many ingredients at the same time can totally cause skin irritation, burning and skin peeling.
- Skipping sunscreen after using retinol or glycolic acid can cause more sun harm.
- Using hot water can strip your skin’s natural moisture.
- Over-exfoliating the face can cause micro tears on the skin.
Final Thoughts
A glycolic acid face wash can be a valuable addition for an anti-aging skin care routine if it is used with caution. As it is a gentle cleanser which totally helps in removing the accumulated dead skin cells and increases the rate of skin cell turnover.
However face wash alone is not sufficient for protecting your skin from aging. Following a consistent skin care regimen like gentle cleansing, moisturizer, applying sunscreen which protects the skin and using safe ingredients like retinol will help in maintaining the smoother, brighter and healthier looking skin over time.
