On the Pros and Cons of Retaining Glycolic Acid on the Scalp at Night
Glycolic Acid has a long-standing reputation in the field of skin care. However, if it is applied to the scalp at night and retained, the trade-off of its pros and cons is quite critical.

Looking at its benefits, glycolic acid has excellent exfoliation effects. On the scalp, there is often an accumulation of aging stratum corneum, which hinders hair follicle respiration and nutrient absorption. Glycolic acid can gently loosen the connections between keratinocytes, causing aging keratin to naturally shed and refreshing the scalp. This process is like a fresh green and old leaf in spring, purifying the microenvironment of the scalp and opening the hair follicles unobstructed, creating a favorable growth environment for hair roots, or helping hair grow more vigorously.

And glycolic acid can promote scalp blood circulation. When glycolic acid comes into contact with the scalp, it stimulates the blood vessels of the scalp, dilates them, and speeds up the blood flow. Like living water injected into a dry place, rich nutrients and oxygen are sent to the hair follicles with blood circulation, nourishing hair roots, enhancing hair follicle activity, and preventing hair loss and development.

However, its disadvantages cannot be ignored. Glycolic acid is irritating to a certain extent, and the scalp skin is more delicate than other parts of the body. Staying for a long time at night may cause scalp discomfort, itching and tingling in mild cases, and allergic reactions in severe cases, resulting in redness, swelling, and rash. If the allergy is serious, it will not heal, or cause irreversible damage to the hair follicles, which will be counterproductive and aggravate the worry of hair loss.

Furthermore, the acid-base balance of the scalp is crucial. The normal scalp is in a weakly acidic environment to resist the invasion of external pathogens. The intervention of glycolic acid may change the pH of the scalp. If left at night for too long, the acid-base imbalance can easily lead to the imbalance of microbial communities, the growth of harmful bacteria, and cause scalp inflammation, such as seborrheic dermatitis, which in turn affects the healthy growth of hair.

To sum up, the retention of glycolic acid in the scalp at night has advantages and disadvantages. If used properly, it may improve the condition of the scalp and promote hair growth; if used carelessly, there will be endless problems. Therefore, users should weigh carefully and consult professionals if necessary, which is a wise move.