Comparison between Alpha Hydroxy Acid and Glycolic Acid
Alpha Hydroxy Acid and Glycolic Acid, both of which play an important role in the field of skin care, but their characteristics, efficacy and application are really to be investigated.
Fruit acid is actually a general term for a class of compounds. Its origin is natural and is more common in fruits, sugar cane and yogurt. Fruit acid molecules contain hydroxyl and carboxyl groups, which can be subdivided according to molecular structure and hydroxyl position. This property makes fruit acid unique in skin care. It can promote the metabolism of stratum corneum cells, loosen the connections between keratinocytes, help the elderly waste keratin shedding, and make the skin surface smoother and more uniform in color. Long-term use can improve skin texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and is also beneficial to some acne problems.
Glycolic acid, although it also belongs to the fruit acid family, has its unique properties. It is the smallest molecule in fruit acid, with high water solubility and skin permeability. This property allows glycolic acid to quickly penetrate into the surface of the skin and exert its effect. Glycolic acid has a more significant effect on the stratum corneum, which can efficiently peel off keratin and accelerate cell renewal. It is often more effective than other fruit acids in improving dull complexion and brightening skin. And because it can stimulate collagen synthesis in the dermis, long-term use has a good effect on increasing skin elasticity and reducing wrinkle formation.
However, compared with the two, there are also advantages and disadvantages. Due to the variety of fruit acids, there are more flexible choices according to different skin types and needs. For sensitive skin, milder fruit acid products can be selected; for oily acne skin, fruit acids that have better oil control and anti-acne effect can be selected. However, although glycolic acid has strong penetration and significant effect, it is more irritating because of its large irritation. Those with sensitive skin may need to use it with caution. If used improperly, it is easy to cause skin redness, tingling, desquamation and other discomforts.
Therefore, if you want to choose fruit acid or glycolic acid for skin care, you should carefully review your skin type and skin care requirements. For sensitive skin, you should choose mild fruit acid products when you first taste them, and gradually build tolerance; for oily, dull skin, glycolic acid may be a tried choice. But no matter what, you should follow the correct method and frequency of use to achieve the best skin care effect and avoid the risk of skin damage.