On whether common glycolic acid can cause exfoliation
or ask: can common glycolic acid cause exfoliation? This doubt is related to the importance of skin care and needs to be analyzed in detail.
Glycolic acid belongs to the class of fruit acids, which are widely used in skin care. Its molecules are tiny and can quickly penetrate the surface of the skin. Some commentators believe that glycolic acid can loosen the connections between keratinocytes, making old keratin easier to fall off, which seems to have the effect of exfoliation.
However, this is not a generalization. Moderate concentration of glycolic acid, if used properly, or only helps the skin's metabolism and promotes the renewal of the stratum corneum, may not cause obvious exfoliation. The skin itself has the ability to adapt and repair, and can be adjusted in an orderly manner when external stimuli are tolerable.
And different skin types respond differently to glycolic acid. Dry skin, thin stratum corneum, or poor tolerance to it, is more likely to show signs of exfoliation; oily skin, slightly thicker stratum corneum, or strong tolerance, using the same concentration of glycolic acid, may not see exfoliation.
Furthermore, the product formula is also the key. If glycolic acid is matched with soothing and moisturizing ingredients, it can reduce its irritation and reduce the possibility of exfoliation. However, the formula is not good, or it may cause skin discomfort, and the risk of exfoliation increases.
To sum up, whether ordinary glycolic acid causes exfoliation is not simple and can be broken. Factors related to concentration, skin type, product formula and use method. Users should choose and use it carefully according to their own skin condition to determine whether it causes peeling.