Glycolic Acid

You can use Glycolic Acid in cosmetic products or incorporate it in homemade face washes, toners, and moisturizers. Glycolic Acid restores the natural youthfulness of the skin and works wonders on your skin.

Creating a glycolic acid solution or peel at home requires careful attention to safety and proper dilution. Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) commonly used in skincare for its exfoliating properties. However, it is essential to handle it with caution to prevent skin irritation or burns. Here's a general guideline for making a 20% glycolic acid solution:

Ingredients:

1. Glycolic acid (powder or liquid form)
2. Distilled water or aloe vera gel (as a base)
3. pH test strips
4. Gloves and protective eyewear
5. pH adjuster (such as sodium hydroxide or baking soda)

Procedure:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Wear gloves and protective eyewear to avoid skin contact.
   • Work in a well-ventilated area.

2. Calculate the Amount:

   • For a 20% glycolic acid solution, you'll need to calculate the amount of glycolic acid and the base (water or aloe vera gel).
   • For example, if you want to make 50 grams of the solution, you'll need 10 grams of glycolic acid (20% of 50 grams) and 40 grams of the base.

3. Mixing:

   • Add the calculated amount of glycolic acid slowly to the base, stirring continuously.
   • It's advisable to add the acid to the water or aloe vera gel and not the other way around to avoid splashing.

4. pH Adjustment:

   • Check the pH of the solution using pH test strips.
   • If the pH is too low, you can use a pH adjuster (such as sodium hydroxide or baking soda) to bring it to the desired level. Add it in small amounts and retest until you reach the target pH.

5. Storage:

   • Store the solution in a dark glass or opaque container, as glycolic acid can degrade when exposed to light.

6. Patch Test:

   • Before applying the solution to your face, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to ensure there is no adverse reaction.

Important Notes:

• Do not exceed a 20% concentration, as higher concentrations can lead to increased risk of skin irritation and burns.
• Always follow safety guidelines, and if you have any doubts, consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional before attempting a glycolic acid peel at home.
• Glycolic acid peels can increase skin sensitivity to the sun, so it's crucial to use sunscreen afterward.

For a more accurate formulation and guidance, consider consulting with a skincare professional or dermatologist.

Applying undiluted glycolic acid directly to the skin, especially on larger areas like the legs, is not recommended. Glycolic acid is a powerful exfoliant and chemical peel agent that can cause irritation, burning, and potentially severe damage if used incorrectly.

Glycolic acid offers three primary application methods in a skincare regimen: as a facial cleanser, a toner, and a mask. When incorporating glycolic acid into your routine, it's advisable to choose between using it as a daily face wash or toner, as both typically feature lower concentrations suitable for daily use. Additionally, consider incorporating a weekly glycolic acid mask for enhanced benefits. Spread 3 to 4 drops (the equivalent of a pea) on your face during your evening beauty routine.

Up to 10% glycolic acid and are a good option for daily body care products.