What Is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is a form of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that comes from a substance referred to as sugar cane. Tartaric acid, citric acid, malic acid, and lactic acid are other types of widely-known alpha-hydroxy acids utilized in numerous skincare products. Glycolic acid works by penetrating the spaces between the cells that make up the skin, as it has the characteristic of being the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid molecule. Glycolic acid disintegrates the bonds between the skin cells that keep them together, making it an effective substance for exfoliation.