What is Glycolic Acid

Well… Derived from sugarcane, this skin-loving ingredient effortlessly penetrates deep into the skin to break up the bonds between dull, dead cells, revealing a fresh, smooth and radiant complexion. Not only that, but with regular use, it also helps to boost collagen production, promote the growth of healthy new skin cells and keep pesky blackheads and congestion at bay.

How will it help my skin?

In a nutshell, you can expect to see these main benefits;

• Improvement in skin texture: Glycolic acid can help to smooth rough, dry skin, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Reduction in breakouts: Unclogs pores and reduces the development of breakouts by removing dead skin cells that can trap oil and bacteria.
• Evening of skin tone: Glycolic acid can help to fade pigmentation from sun damage and scarring by removing the cells holding excess melanin, resulting in a more even skin tone.
• Boost in collagen production: Collagen, oh collagen! This amazing protein gives our skin its structure and elasticity, making it look youthful and glowing. Glycolic acid stimulates glycosaminoglycans synthesis (in short GAGs). GAGs primary role is to support the structural proteins of the skin. These water-loving molecules can hold up to 1,000 times their weight in H2O, helping keep our skin hydrated, refreshed, and looking its best. In short, glycolic acid and collagen are a dynamic duo that help us achieve our skincare goals..

Sounds great! What could go wrong?

Although glycolic acid is generally safe for use on most skins, it can cause side effects in some people. These may include dryness, redness, and flaking. It is important to start with a lower concentration of glycolic acid and gradually increase the strength as your skin becomes accustomed to it. It is also important to use sunscreen when using glycolic acid, as it can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun.

Alright sign me up! What percentage should I start with?

The optimal percentage of glycolic acid for use on your skin will depend on several factors, including your individual skin type and the condition of your skin.

Glycolic acid is available in a range of concentrations, from as low as 5% to as high as 70%. Higher concentrations of glycolic acid may be more effective at improving the texture and appearance of the skin, but they can also be more irritating.

It is generally recommended to start with a lower concentration of glycolic acid and gradually increase the strength as your skin becomes accustomed to it and on a needs basis. 

However, if you are ever unsure, err on the side of caution. Sometimes less is more, and you always have your Skin Therapist for these questions.

Great, what are my options!

Let's start with a skin consultation in clinic! We can help to recommend the best concentration and frequency-of-use based on your individual skin type and needs. We can also chat about your in clinic options with advanced Dermapeels.

Here's a rough idea of your Glycolic options with us:

Mesoestetics- Resurfacing Peel Booster 

The Resurfacing Peel Booster contains 10% Glycolic Acid. This one is a re-texturising and anti-ageing gel for oily and acne-prone skins. Eliminates impurities and dead cells, smooths skin texture and reduces pore size.

Mesoestetics- Brightening Peel Booster

The Brightening Peel Booster contains 10% Glycolic. This one is fantastic for clarifying and illuminating the skin. Best for reducing the melanin activity and speeding cell turnover to reveal brighter, hydrated, glowing skin.

Advanced Dermapeel in-clinic Treatment: Mesopeel

Get ready to reveal your best skin yet with Mesoestetic glycolic acid Mesopeels! These peels are like a magic wand for your skin, waving away dullness, fine lines, and wrinkles. 

Here's what you can expect from this skin-loving treatment:

1. A smoother and clearer complexion: Glycolic acid is the hero ingredient in this peel, reducing congestion by dissolving the buildup that traps oil.

2. Wrinkle-fighting power: By promoting collagen synthesis and cell renewal, glycolic acid can help to smooth out those fine lines and wrinkles.

3. Hydrated and happy skin: This peel not only exfoliates, but it also helps to improve the skin's hydration levels, leaving it feeling plump and hydrated.

4. A brighter, more even complexion: Say goodbye to dark spots and hyperpigmentation with glycolic acid's brightening power.

5. A treatment for all skin types: Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, Mesoestetic glycolic acid Mesopeels are suitable for almost everyone, with the exception of compromised or inflamed skin's. 

The Glycolic peels range from 20% all the way up to 70%.  These peels are performed every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on your individual skin needs, and provide exceptional results with little to no downtime. The only thing you'll experience is maybe a little flaking 1 to 2 days after, and of course plump, glowing skin.

What should I look out for once I start?

Now you know your options and you're a bit of a Glycolic expert, let's chat a little more about the precautions.

Be careful with your exfoliation routine, folks! Overdoing it can cause some serious harm to your skin and result in irritation. Keep an eye out for warning signs, like dryness, tightness, and excessive redness after applying products. These may indicate that your skin has reached its limit and needs a break. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to maintaining a healthy and glowing complexion.. If you are using glycolic acid as part of a skincare routine, follow the instructions on the product label and any advice your skin therapist has provided. Remember, your skin guru is only ever a phone call away.

And there you have it folks, Glycolic Acid is  action packed! Next step? Book in your free skin consultation for your skin analysis, we'll chat about your options and set your skin journey in motion.

Until next time, farewell and don't forget beauty is more than skin deep, so take care of yourself inside and out.