Glycolic acid is a colorless, odorless alpha-hydroxy-acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane. It is a type of chemical exfoliant that dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be wiped away easily, revealing smooth, younger skin below. Glycolic acids are used in cosmetic dermatology because in a concentration of say 70%, they remove the top 3 to 5 layers of skin and one uses this technique for skin rejuvenation or to remove pigmentation. In a much lower concentration, it still has this peeling effect but on a lower level.

So what happens when the skin is ageing? Basically, young skin regenerates quickly and all the skin layers get replaced in 3 weeks. As your skin ages, by about every decade the regeneration time doubles and your skin looks “older.”

lf the skin turns red and flaky, then one has to add more moisturizer next time. lf nothing happens one can make the mixture a bit stronger.

Usually one can use the cream as it comes out of the pot after 2 – 4 weeks. Once the first 5% pot is finished, one can try the 10% but again dilute first.

Some people can never go up as high as 10% but most people can. This cream can be applied all over, even close to the eyes. Remember when using any face cream you should always use it on face, neck and chest.

Also bear in mind that the AHA does not contain a sunscreen. Anybody should apply a sunscreen of a least SPF30 in the morning over the AHA! face cream.

So the perfect routine would be:

ln the evening wash your face with a neutral cleanser if you wear make up! lf not, water will do as well ! Then apply the AHA! face cream.

ln the morning wash your face with water, apply the AHA! face cream then sunscreen. lf you wear base and/or make-up it goes on top of the sunscreen.

This skincare routine is simple, not too expensive but it works and gives your skin all that it requires.