Differences between glycolic acid and salicylic acid
Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are both ingredients commonly found in the field of skin care, but there are many differences in their characteristics, efficacy, and application to skin types.
Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid with relatively small molecules and excellent hydrophilicity. At the skin care level, it can easily penetrate the stratum corneum of the skin with a small molecular structure, effectively promoting the metabolism of keratinocytes. It can gently peel off the surface of the old waste keratin, making the skin surface smoother and more delicate, improving the dullness of the skin tone, and helping the skin glow. At the same time, glycolic acid can also stimulate the synthesis of collagen in the dermis. Long-term use can enhance skin elasticity and reduce fine lines to a certain extent. However, due to its certain exfoliation, people with sensitive skin may need to be cautious when using it for the first time. It is advisable to start with low-concentration products and gradually build skin tolerance.
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid with fat-soluble properties. This property allows it to penetrate deep into the pores, effectively dissolve the oil and keratin suppositories accumulated in the pores, and has a significant effect on improving common problems of oily skin such as acne and acne. It not only cleans pores and prevents acne, but also has a certain anti-inflammatory effect, which can relieve redness, swelling and inflammation of acne skin. However, although salicylic acid is suitable for oily and combination skin, high-concentration salicylic acid products may be more irritating to the skin, and the concentration and frequency of use should also be reasonably selected according to their own skin conditions.
In summary, glycolic acid focuses on improving the surface texture and color of the skin, while salicylic acid has more advantages in solving pore blockage and acne inflammation. Skin care providers should carefully select products with suitable ingredients according to their own skin type and needs in order to achieve ideal skin care results.