Salicylic acid vs Glycolic acid
When someone says the word, “acid”, the image of bubbling solutions in beakers and test tubes, comes to mind. However, acids are now the hottest talk of the town in the skincare industry. Used in the right concentrations with the right formulations, they can do wonders for your skin. In today’s article, we are going to talk about the two most famous acids abundantly used in skincare products. Glycolic acid and Salicylic acid. But what do these two do? Which one is suitable for your skin? How can you incorporate them into your daily skincare routine? Keep reading to find out.
Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is a naturally occurring AHA (Alpha-Hydroxy-Acid). It is derived from sugarcane and is a vital ingredient in many skin care products due to its exfoliating and anti-aging properties.
Glycolic acid has a smaller molecule which allows it to penetrate deeper into the skin. It exfoliates the dead skin cells to reveal fresh, clean, and younger-looking skin. Moreover, it treats hyperpigmentation, unclogs the pores by removing the residue and dirt, and prevents acne and breakouts by clearing away impurities. As it goes deeper into the skin, it also helps in collagen stimulation and prevents fine lines and wrinkles.
Toners, cleansers, and exfoliants with a milder formulation of glycolic acid could be used at home as part of your daily skincare routine. However, you should always go to a professional aesthetician if you are planning to use a medical-grade chemical peel as higher concentrations must never be applied without professional supervision.
Salicylic Acid
It is also one of the naturally occurring BHAs. Salicylic acid is derived from willow bark and is considered the best ingredient for treating acne. Found in many anti-acne products, Salicylic acid is a fantastic exfoliant. Just like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, too, goes deeper into the skin and cleans pores from within to treat acne and prevent future breakouts.
The main difference between AHAs and BHAs is that the AHAs are water-soluble whereas BHAs are fat-soluble which basically allows them to go deeper on a cellular level. Salicylic acid also reduces inflammation and redness making it an ideal ingredient for oily, irritated, and acne-prone skin.
Salicylic acid vs glycolic acid which Should I Pick?
Although both acids are great exfoliants, they are not the same. While glycolic acid exfoliates and helps with mild hyperpigmentation, salicylic acid is ideal for breakouts, acne, blackheads, whiteheads, and itchy skin. Glycolic acid is also great for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and stimulating collagen. So, you can pick either of them according to your skin’s concern.
If you think your problem requires immediate attention and regular products won’t work, chemical peels can do wonders for your skin. At Nita Med Spa, our chemical peels are known for their efficiency, potent ingredients, and fast results. The best part, you can avail our special offer discounts too. Our package of two VI chemical peels with the booster is available at an unbelievable price of $750. To learn more about our special offers, book an appointment via a call to discuss your skin with our experts.
