THE BENEFITS OF GLYCOLIC ACID IN SKINCARE: HOW DOES IT WORK?
- Moreton Aesthetics
- Jul 20, 2025
- 4 min read
I'm passionate about helping you achieve glowing, radiant skin with clinically proven skincare solutions. One of the most popular and effective ingredients I recommend to patients seeking smoother, brighter and more youthful skin is glycolic acid.
But what exactly is glycolic acid in skincare, how does it work, and why should you consider adding it to your routine? Let’s take a closer look at this powerhouse ingredient, its benefits, and how you can safely incorporate it into your skincare routine.
GLOW.
What is Glycolic Acid in Skincare?
Glycolic acid is part of the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family, which also includes lactic acid and mandelic acid. However, glycolic acid stands out because of its incredibly small molecular size. This means it can penetrate the skin more effectively than other AHAs, working deep within the skin’s surface layers to break down the bonds that hold onto dead, dull skin cells.
The result? Fresher, brighter, smoother skin is revealed beneath — giving you that healthy, glowing complexion we’re all striving for.
Glycolic acid is often described as offering a mini peel effect at home, helping to gently refine skin texture between your in-clinic treatments.
How Does Glycolic Acid Work on the Skin?
Glycolic acid works primarily as an exfoliant. By breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface, it encourages cell turnover — the natural process of shedding old skin and replacing it with new, healthy cells.
Over time, this leads to:
Brighter skin tone
Smoother skin texture
Improved hydration
Fewer breakouts
Reduction in the appearance of fine lines and pigmentation
It’s an ingredient that truly delivers results when used consistently as part of a professionally curated skincare routine.
Why Choose SkinCeuticals for Glycolic Acid Skincare?
At Moreton Aesthetics, I trust SkinCeuticals to deliver clinically proven results. Their glycolic acid formulations are precisely balanced for efficacy and safety, making them ideal for patients who want to enhance their skin without risking irritation.
One of our top recommendations is the SkinCeuticals Glycolic Renewal Cleanser. This luxurious gel cleanser combines glycolic acid with soothing ingredients to deeply cleanse, exfoliate and brighten the skin without stripping it of essential moisture. It’s perfect for those who want to experience a peel at home in a safe and controlled way, leaving skin feeling fresh, smooth and refined after each use.
In addition, SkinCeuticals’ Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight treatment offers targeted resurfacing benefits while you sleep, boosting radiance and supporting your skin’s natural regeneration process.
The Benefits of Regular Glycolic Acid Use
When used consistently and correctly, glycolic acid offers a wide range of benefits for almost every skin type (although those with highly sensitive skin should approach with care and seek professional advice first):
Smoother Texture: Skin feels softer and more refined.
Brighter Complexion: Dullness is reduced, replaced with a fresh glow.
Clearer Pores: Regular exfoliation helps prevent breakouts and congestion.
Anti-Ageing Benefits: Fine lines and sun damage appear softened.
Enhanced Product Absorption: Fresher skin absorbs serums and moisturisers more effectively.
Can Glycolic Acid Replace In-Clinic Treatments?
While glycolic acid is brilliant for maintaining skin health between appointments, it doesn’t replace professional-grade treatments. However, it does bridge the gap beautifully between clinic visits, helping you prolong and maintain the results of treatments such as The Perfect Peel and SkinPen Microneedling.
Using high-quality homecare like SkinCeuticals, alongside professional treatments at Moreton Aesthetics, ensures your skin continues to look and feel its very best year-round.
Is Glycolic Acid Right for You?
Glycolic acid is suitable for most skin types, but it’s important to introduce it gradually and with the correct percentage of active ingredient for your skin’s needs. That’s why I always recommend a personalised skincare consultation at Moreton Aesthetics: I'll help you build a routine that enhances your skin without risking sensitivity or over-exfoliation.
If you are looking to experience a peel at home and enjoy the benefits of smoother, brighter, more youthful skin, incorporating products like SkinCeuticals Glycolic Cleanser can be a brilliant first step.
Key Tips for Using Glycolic Acid Safely
Start slowly: Use a glycolic cleanser 2-3 times a week and gradually build up to daily use as your skin tolerates.
Apply SPF daily: Glycolic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. We recommend SkinCeuticals Advanced Brightening UV Defense SPF 50 for superior protection.
Pair with hydration: Glycolic acid exfoliates, but it’s important to keep skin hydrated too. Look for hydrating serums or moisturisers as part of your daily regime.
Ready to take the next step?
Book your consultation today and let’s create a skincare plan tailored to you.
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