Glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is commonly used in skincare products. It is a colorless, odorless, and water-soluble acid that is derived from sugarcane, beets, and pineapple.
In skincare, glycolic acid is primarily used as an exfoliating agent to help remove dead skin cells and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin. It works by breaking down the bonds between the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, allowing them to be easily sloughed away. This process also helps to stimulate cell turnover, which can lead to a brighter, more youthful-looking complexion.