Glycolic Acid Use Guide
Glycolic acid, as an ingredient that has attracted much attention in the field of skin care, the correct use method is essential to exert its efficacy. The following is a detailed guide for the use of glycolic acid.
1. Preparation before use
1. ** Skin test **
Be sure to perform a skin sensitivity test before officially using products containing glycolic acid. Take a small amount of the product and apply it to the skin behind the ear or inside the wrist and observe for 24-48 hours. If there is an uncomfortable reaction such as redness, swelling, itching, and tingling on the application site, it indicates that the skin may be allergic to glycolic acid. Use with caution or avoid use.
2. ** Cleansing the skin **
Use gentle cleansing products to clean the face and remove dirt, oil and cosmetic residues on the surface of the skin. But be careful to avoid excessive cleaning, so as not to damage the skin barrier. After cleaning, gently pat dry the skin with a clean towel to keep the skin dry.
2. Frequency of use
1. ** Initial use **
For skin exposed to glycolic acid for the first time, it is recommended to start using the product with a low concentration, and the frequency of use should not be too high. For example, you can choose a glycolic acid product with a concentration of 2% - 5% and use it 1-2 times a week. Let the skin gradually adapt to the stimulation of glycolic acid and reduce the chance of adverse reactions.
2. ** After the skin adapts **
As the skin's tolerance to glycolic acid increases, the frequency of use can be appropriately increased. When the skin adapts to the frequency and concentration of initial use, it can be gradually increased to 2-3 times a week. If the skin still has no adverse reactions, you can consider trying higher concentrations of products, but you still need to control the frequency of use. Generally, 3-4 times a week is appropriate, and must not be overused.
3. How to use
1. ** Apply product **
Take an appropriate amount of product containing glycolic acid in the palm of your hand, gently apply it to your forehead, cheeks, chin and other parts, then gently push it away with your fingertips, and apply it evenly to the whole face. Pay attention to avoid the more sensitive areas of the skin such as the eye area and lips. When applying, the action should be gentle to avoid pulling the skin hard.
2. ** Dwell time **
When using for the first time, the residence time of the product on the skin should not be too long. Low-concentration products can stay for 3-5 minutes, and then wash thoroughly with water. As the skin's adaptability improves, the residence time can be gradually extended, but generally 10-15 minutes is appropriate. The residence time of high-concentration products should be strictly in accordance with the product instructions. It must not be extended at will to avoid excessive irritation and damage to the skin.
IV. Follow-up care
1. ** Moisturizing **
After using glycolic acid, the metabolism of the skin is accelerated, and water loss may increase. Therefore, moisturizing products, such as creams, lotions, etc. should be used immediately after use to replenish moisture and lock moisture for the skin, and repair the skin barrier. You can choose products containing moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
2. ** Sunscreen **
glycolic acid will make the skin more sensitive to ultraviolet rays. Be sure to take sun protection measures after use. When going out during the day, you should apply sunscreen, choose a product with an appropriate sun protection index (SPF), and match it with physical sunscreen, such as wearing a hat, wearing a parasol, etc., to avoid skin damage from ultraviolet rays and prevent problems such as pigmentation.
Correct use of glycolic acid and follow the above usage guidelines can minimize the adverse effects on the skin while enjoying its skin care effects and make the skin glow with a healthy glow.