Glycolic acid is one of the most popular ingredients in skincare today, and for good reason. It’s celebrated for its ability to exfoliate the skin, helping to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion. But there’s a lot more to glycolic acid than just its exfoliating powers. Let’s dive into why it’s such a skincare powerhouse and why we choose to use a high-purity, lab-made version at withSimplicity.
What is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and is one of the most effective exfoliating ingredients in skincare. Because it has the smallest molecular size of all AHAs, it penetrates the skin easily, working deep within the surface layers to dissolve the bonds that hold dead skin cells together. This gentle chemical exfoliation reveals smoother, brighter skin underneath while helping to refine texture and improve overall radiance.
On a deeper level, glycolic acid stimulates collagen production and accelerates cellular turnover, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, uneven tone, and dullness over time. It also enhances the absorption of other skincare ingredients, allowing serums and moisturizers to work more effectively. When used in the right concentration and pH, glycolic acid offers a powerful yet balanced way to rejuvenate the skin without harsh scrubbing or irritation.
Why Choose Lab-Made Glycolic Acid?
While glycolic acid is naturally found in sugar cane, the amounts needed for effective skincare products are much higher than what can be sustainably extracted from plants. This is why we use the only high-purity, lab-made glycolic acid on the market, which is formaldehyde-free and designed for maximum effectiveness.
Why lab-made glycolic acid, you ask? Here’s why:
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Sustainability: By sourcing glycolic acid from a lab instead of extracting it from plants, we reduce our environmental impact. This ensures that we’re using a reliable and consistent ingredient without overburdening natural resources.
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Purity: The lab-made glycolic acid we use is formulated to be of the highest purity and is formaldehyde-free, meaning it delivers consistent results without impurities. This makes it a safer choice for our products, ensuring the quality and reliability of the skincare experience.
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Eco-Friendly: As we strive to be conscious of our impact on the planet, lab-made glycolic acid gives us control over the sourcing and production process, keeping our skincare routines clean and eco-friendly.
How Does Glycolic Acid Benefit Your Skin?
Glycolic acid’s main job is exfoliation. It helps break down the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, allowing them to shed more easily. This results in:
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Smoother skin texture: Regular exfoliation can improve the appearance of uneven skin, leaving it softer and more radiant.
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Brighter complexion: Glycolic acid can help reveal fresh, new skin, which can leave your face looking brighter and more glowing.
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More even skin tone: With its exfoliating effects, glycolic acid can help reduce the appearance of dark spots or discoloration over time.
Glycolic Acid and Sensitive Skin
We understand that some people may have concerns about using glycolic acid on sensitive skin. Since it’s an exfoliating acid, it can be more intense than other ingredients. But with our high-purity glycolic acid, it’s formulated to work gently on your skin without the irritation often associated with other exfoliants. Always patch test before using any new product, and if you have particularly sensitive skin, start slowly and gradually build up usage.
Glycolic Acid in Your Skincare Routine
If you're new to glycolic acid, withSimplicity’s Cream Exfoliator is a gentle way to introduce this ingredient into your routine. This product combines glycolic acid with finely milled exfoliants to help renew the skin’s surface without being overly harsh.
Start by using our Cream Exfoliator once or twice a week, depending on your skin’s sensitivity. Over time, you can increase usage as your skin builds tolerance—just be sure to listen to your skin and adjust as needed.
Don’t forget SPF: Because glycolic acid exfoliates the top layer of skin, it can make your skin more sensitive to sun exposure. Applying a daily sunscreen is key to keeping your skin protected and healthy.
