The difference between retinoic acid and glycolic acid

The way of skin maintenance, retinoic acid and glycolic acid are both commonly used skin care ingredients, but their properties and uses vary.

Retinoic acid is derived from a derivative of vitamin A. Its function penetrates deep into the bottom layer of the skin, promotes cell metabolism, accelerates the exfoliation of old waste keratin, and stimulates collagen production. It can make the skin texture delicate, wrinkles gradually shallow, and has a good effect on anti-aging and wrinkle removal. However, it is strong, and the skin of the first user may have intolerance, such as redness, tingling, desquamation, etc., so the use should start from a low concentration, gradually increase, and use it at night is more suitable, because sunlight can cause it to decompose, and it also increases the risk of skin photosensitivity.

Glycolic acid, a type of fruit acid, has small molecules and strong activity. It can loosen the connections between keratinocytes, gently exfoliate, smooth pores, and improve the rough and dull state of the skin. It is good in brightening skin tone and improving acne skin. Compared with retinoic acid, glycolic acid is slightly less irritating, but people with high concentrations still need to use it with caution, and pay attention to sun protection after use to prevent anti-blackening.

Compared with the two, retinoic acid focuses on anti-aging, which is beneficial for deep skin repair and collagen synthesis; glycolic acid rejuvenates the skin surface and improves keratin accumulation and uneven skin tone. If you want the effect of skin care, you should choose according to your own skin type and needs. For dry and sensitive skin, choose glycolic acid or more stable; for oily and aging skin, retinoic acid may bring better results. However, no matter what you use, you should gradually observe the skin's reaction and use it reasonably to achieve the beauty of healthy skin.