If you've spoken to me about skincare before it probably comes at no surprise that my first S.O.S. post would be about Glycolic Acid. I say it all the time, that it is my favorite skincare ingredient and I will never stop using it (even when eventually pregnant because FUN FACT: it's safe to use during pregnancy).

So what's the big deal? Why do I love it so much? Well Glycolic Acid works in many ways on the skin to help increase cell turnover, hydrate, stimulate collagen, thicken the skin, fade hyperpigmentation, decrease fine lines and wrinkles, improve texture, keep breakouts away, and so much more! Today I'm going to give you a brief overview of what Glycolic Acid does for us on a scientific level and then recommend some of my favorite products if you would like to start incorporating it into your regular at home skincare regimen.

Glycolic Acid is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid or A.H.A. known for it's tiny molecular size which allows for it's effectiveness when penetrating the skin. Dervived from sugars like sugar cane, it's great for all skin types including those who are sensitive. It works on an epidermal and dermal level which is how it gives us so many beneficial results.

On the epidermal level, Glycolic Acid breaks down the desmosomes, or glue, that bind dead skin cells together. Dissolve the glue that holds the dead skin cells down, and you have an effective way to exfoliate them. This ultimately increases cell turnover, since you're encouraging newer cells to come to the surface, which helps fade sunspots, acne scars, melasma, fine lines, and reveal fresher and brighter skin. It also helps dissolve sebum, which is why it's great for clearing up congestion and texture issues in pores. I often recommend it to people if they feel excess oil is being trapped in their pores on a regular basis.

On the dermal level, it stimulates the collagen and works to increase the thickness of the skin. As we age it's important to focus on thickening the skin or maintaining thickness to prevent aging. Glycolic Acid also helps draw water molecules in the air into the skin which helps you retain moisture and ultimately look hydrated and plumped.

So I'm guessing one or more of these benefits has intrigued you and you're wondering how can you incorporate Glycolic Acid into your skincare routine? Below you'll find first, the two ways that I incorporate Glycolic Acid into my skincare routine daily and weekly. Then I have a list of links of everything from Cleansers to Masks, that I recommend you trying. If you have any questions of which ones would work best for you, please shoot me a message or email and I'd be happy discuss further or set up a 1 on 1 skincare consultation with you!

I currently use the Dermadoctor Ain't Misbehavin' Healthy Toner ($39) every morning and night after cleansing. If you are new to glycolic acid start off by using it every other night and build up to twice a day. Then once a week I use the Andalou Naturals Pumpkin Honey Glycolic Mask ($14.99).

Cleansers: Dermadoctor Wrinkle Revenge Antioxidant Enchanced Glycolic Acid Racial Cleanser ($32), Exuviance Clarifying Facial Cleanser ($36), Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser ($16).

Toners: Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner ($16), Exuviance Moisture Balance Toner ($32), Peter Thomas Roth 8% Glycolic Solutions Toner ($40).

Treatments: Exuviance Performance Peel AP25 ($77), First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads ($30), Juice Beauty Green Apple Peel Sensitive ($42).

Moisturizers: Exuviance Glycolic Expert Moisturizer ($46), Cane + Austin Facial Moisture Cream ($80), Ole Henriksen Counter Balance Oil Control Hydrator ($34).

So there you have it! My love affair with Glycolic Acid explained! As usual these recommendations are only that; please reach out to me with specific questions for your skincare routine. I recommend only trying one new product at a time to give them an honest shot (You will only need at most, two of those products incorporated at once in your daily/weekly routine).

If you have recommendations for the next S.O.S. topic, please be sure to leave a comment below so I can address it in the future!

Have a beautiful day!

-Andrea