Glycolic acid

Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that, like other ingredients in the category, can act as a water-binding agent and, when properly formulated and used in concentrations of 5% or greater, as an exfoliant. While there are several other types of AHA, glycolic acid is by far the one with the most research backing its effectiveness.

In its capacity as an exfoliant, it can help shed dead skin to renew skin’s surface, which results in the improvement of several signs of aging, including sun damage, uneven tone, rough, flaky patches of skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. 

• The most-researched AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) with a long history of safe use