Up until 2 years ago, I would have thought you were crazy to put acid on your face! Fast forward a couple of years and I seriously can’t live without it…Glycolic Acid that is, something that has completely transformed my skin to a smoother, softer, more youthful me than I was before.
Glycolic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and acts as an exfoliator when applied to the skin. It removes dead skin cells on the surface of your face, bringing fresh skin to the surface. It is a great ingredient for those with sun or age spots and also scars and marks from acne, as glycolic acid helps to lighten any discolouration of the skin. This, in turn helps fight the signs of ageing as it does a bloomin’ good job of smoothing and rejuvenating the skin. I am wondering why I didn’t start using glycolic acid years ago?!
It was the miracle worker known as Alpha-H Liquid Gold that started my love for acids. Raved about by Ruth from A Model Recommends (who I have much to be thankful for), I knew I had to get on board to start sorting out my problematic skin. I lusted after blemish free, smooth, wrinkle free skin (don’t we all?!) and after going through hell with my skin during and after pregnancy, I couldn’t take any more, so started to invest in my skin. Liquid Gold is a resurfacing treatment that you apply to freshly cleansed skin 2-3 times a week, simply put some on a cotton pad, sweep all over the face and let it do it’s magic overnight. The morning after using this, your skin feel feels plumper, clearer and smoother and I love the appearance it gives my skin. With continued use, (as I mentioned I have been using this for almost 2 years now), this has totally transformed my skin (in conjunction with other skincare products), from a spotty, flaky mess, to a now more youthful, glowing complexion. I have noticed that my pores are reduced, the dark marks left by acne have disappeared, fine lines are not as obvious, and it has left me with a smoother, brighter, more radient complexion. I seriously could not be without this now, a total miracle worker!
On the evenings that I don’t use Liquid Gold, I use the (now cult) toner, Pixi Glow Tonic, which also contains glycolic acid, to give the skin a gentle exfoliate every day. It also contains aloe vera and witch hazel to firm and smooth! I have written a post here of how I use it in conjunction with a more hydrating toner and I really do think that this has helped to improve the condition of my skin too, by removing the flaky skin I had on my nose as well as reducing redness I had too! This is currently only available in the pixi store, but is soon to be available online too here. I cannot recommend this highly enough!
Another product that needs no introduction is the REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask, which is a god-send to many! This is a fabulous mask to use when your skin needs perking up if it is feeling a bit lack-lustre, so great to use the night before a special occasion. The glycolic acid in this mask is naturally derived from pineapple, and instantly brightens and tightens the skin leaving it positively glowing! It evens out the skintone and rids any congestion, as well as reducing fine lines. It has a marmalade like consistency which is easily removed with a hot cloth, and used once a week, it really does ooze radiance!
Glycolic acid has really transformed the way my skin looks and feels and has let me have confidence in my skin. If you have problem skin, you really should give one or more of these fantastic products a try, your skin will thank you for it!