For some of us, the idea of putting anything on our faces with the word “acid” in it can seem a bit scary. One skin care ingredient that you shouldn’t shy away from, however, is glycolic acid. This beneficial ingredient helps renew the complexion, fade signs of aging and keep skin healthy. Our favorite glycolic acid products will keep your skin looking vibrant. 

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid and is commonly used as a chemical exfoliant in skin care products. This ingredient helps break down the substance that holds skin cells together, which makes it easier to remove dry, dull cells from the surface of the skin. Removing these cells helps clear pores, fades signs of aging such as fine lines and dark spots and softens a rough or uneven texture. 

Using a product with glycolic acid daily or weekly will provide consistent cell turnover, which keeps skin looking healthy. One of the best glycolic acid products is LovelySkin LUXE Clarifying Gel Cleanser. This face wash contains 2% glycolic acid, as well as 2% salicylic acid, to provide daily exfoliation for the skin. It unclogs pores and removes excess oil so it is ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types. 

Glycolic acid is derived naturally from sugar cane stalk. A similar ingredient, amino fruit acid, is derived from the sugar cane bud. AFAs offer the same benefits as glycolic acid including exfoliation and improved cell turnover. LovelySkin Exfoliating Gel Mild 11% contains 11% amino fruit acids to help create a smooth texture and an even tone.

For a more targeted treatment once a week, we love NeoStrata Skin Active Perfecting Peel. The first step of this two-step peel contains a blend of glycolic acid, citric acid and other alpha hydroxy acids that exfoliate skin to encourage cell renewal and rejuvenation. The second step contains calming ingredients that reduce redness and irritation to create an even tone and texture. 

One of the biggest benefits of glycolic acid is that it encourages cell turnover, which reveals brighter and more youthful skin cells. Obagi Nu-Derm Exfoderm Forte contains 6% glycolic acid and 4% lactic acid, which make it one of the best glycolic acid products and most effective exfoliators. The formula fades dark spots and smooths the appearance of fine lines for a more youthful look. 

Glycolic acid is also very beneficial for those with acne-prone skin because it helps keep pores clear of debris. Jan Marini Bioglycolic Bioclear Face Cream exfoliates skin to target both signs of aging and blemishes. The glycolic acid in this formula removes dulling debris and improves the tone and texture of the complexion. 

Which glycolic acid product is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!