On the combination of glycolic acid and retinol
The method of skin maintenance, the combination of glycolic acid and retinol is hotly debated nowadays. The two have their own abilities, but the beauty of the combination is subject to fine review.
Glycolic acid belongs to the group of fruit acids, with tiny molecules that can quickly penetrate the surface of the skin. Its function is to loosen the adhesion between keratinocytes, make old keratin fall off, skin rejuvenate, uniform color, and slightly reduce fine lines. And can promote collagen synthesis and increase skin elasticity.
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative. It can regulate the metabolism of skin cells, accelerate keratin renewal, help collagen production, lighten lines and resist wrinkles, make the skin dense, and also treat oil well, shrink pores, which is beneficial to acne muscles.
The combination of the two can theoretically achieve synergistic effects. Glycolic acid opens the skin channel, helps retinol penetrate better, and strengthens the effect. However, when actually used, you need to be careful. Both are irritating. If used together, it may cause skin intolerance, and it is now redness, tingling, desquamation, etc.
If you want to match, test the skin's tolerance first. Start with low-concentration products, and gradually increase the concentration and frequency. If you use glycolic acid products alone first, wait for the skin to adapt, and then try the combination of the two on a small scale. And after using glycolic acid during the day, it is necessary to strictly protect the sun, because glycolic acid makes the skin more sensitive to light; retinol should be used at night to avoid sunlight.
In short, the combination of glycolic acid and retinol, if used properly, can make the skin beautiful; if not careful, it will hurt the skin. Therefore, know the characteristics of your skin before use and follow the correct usage to maintain the right path.