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Exfoliation

Glycolic Acid

Exfoliation / PoresBrightening
INCI: Glycolic Acid
In short · TL;DR
Category
Exfoliation
Effect
The lowest-molecular-weight AHA. Cares for old dead skin cells and improves the impression of skin smoothness and dullness
Concentration
Japan's Standards for Cosmetics set no upper limit. The US safety assessment (CIR) considers consumer products safe at 10% or less with a product pH of 3.5 or higher.
Effect
The lowest-molecular-weight AHA. Cares for old dead skin cells and improves the impression of skin smoothness and dullness
Mechanism
Loosens the bonds between corneocytes to promote the shedding of old dead skin cells. Acts at low pH
Typical concentration
Japan's Standards for Cosmetics set no upper limit. The US safety assessment (CIR) considers consumer products safe at 10% or less with a product pH of 3.5 or higher.
Onset
Smoothness of the skin is more readily felt after several weeks of continued use
Cautions
According to the FDA, 4 weeks of use increased sensitivity to UV-induced redness by 18%. Use sunscreen while using it and for one week after stopping.
Evidence & references
Japanese Standards for Cosmetics (no upper limit listed for glycolic or lactic acid) / FDA Alpha Hydroxy Acids https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/alpha-hydroxy-acids (checked 2026-10-20)
Journal

Related Journal

2
Skin Longevity SeriesRe-examining the "28-Day Turnover" Myth Through ScienceSkin Longevity SeriesA Century of Beauty Research
This page is reference information and does not guarantee efficacy. Figures vary by test conditions (in vitro / manufacturer / concentration). It does not indicate pharmaceutical efficacy.
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