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Glycolic Acid
Overview
Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). Alpha hydroxy acids are natural acids found in foods. Glycolic acid comes from sugarcane.
Alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid work by removing the top layers of dead skin cells. Glycolic acid also seems to help reverse sun damage to the skin.
People use glycolic acid for acne, aging skin, dark skin patches on the face, and acne scars. It is also used for stretch marks and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these other uses.
Don't confuse glycolic acid with other alpha hydroxy acids, including citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, and tartaric acid. These are not the same.
Alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid work by removing the top layers of dead skin cells. Glycolic acid also seems to help reverse sun damage to the skin.
People use glycolic acid for acne, aging skin, dark skin patches on the face, and acne scars. It is also used for stretch marks and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these other uses.
Don't confuse glycolic acid with other alpha hydroxy acids, including citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, and tartaric acid. These are not the same.
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