Glossary
A chemical exfoliation treatment using glycolic acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from sugarcane) at concentrations of 10-70 percent to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells in the stratum corneum, accelerating cell turnover and revealing fresher, smoother skin beneath.
Glycolic acid has the smallest molecular size of all AHAs, allowing it to penetrate the stratum corneum more effectively. At treatment concentrations (20-70 percent), it dissolves the desmosome bonds between corneocytes, causing the outer layers of dead cells to shed uniformly. This controlled exfoliation triggers the skin to regenerate faster.
Professional peels (30-70 percent) are performed by dermatologists or licensed estheticians and produce more dramatic results but require recovery time. At-home peels (10-20 percent) provide gentler exfoliation suitable for weekly use without professional supervision.
Regular glycolic exfoliation improves skin texture, reduces acne scarring, fades hyperpigmentation, and increases product penetration. Over time, consistent AHA use can stimulate collagen production in the dermis, providing genuine anti-aging benefits beyond surface exfoliation.
Cautions: glycolic acid significantly increases sun sensitivity for 7 days after treatment. Strict sunscreen use is mandatory. Overuse can damage the skin barrier, causing redness, peeling, and sensitivity. Start with lower concentrations and increase gradually.
At-home peels (10-20 percent): once per week maximum. Professional peels (30-70 percent): every 4-6 weeks. Allow your skin to fully recover between treatments. Over-exfoliation is one of the most common skincare mistakes.
Using them simultaneously can cause excessive irritation. Alternate nights (glycolic one night, retinol the next) or use glycolic acid in the morning and retinol at night. Never layer them in the same application.
Raw honey provides gentle enzymatic exfoliation through its natural fruit acid content. While much milder than a glycolic peel, regular honey masks support cell turnover without the barrier disruption risk. Honey is ideal for sensitive skin that cannot tolerate chemical peels.
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