Renewal Facial Cleanser

Glycolic acid is highly acclaimed for its remarkable exfoliating and rejuvenating properties. Its small molecular size enables deep skin penetration, fostering efficient exfoliation at the cellular level.

Glycolic acid’s water solubility allows it to penetrate the upper layers of the skin easily. Its primary mechanism of action involves weakening the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting their shedding, and revealing the newer, healthier skin beneath. This process of accelerated cell turnover is instrumental in addressing a range of skin concerns, from aging signs like fine lines and wrinkles to texture irregularities and hyperpigmentation.

Glycolic acid's efficacy extends beyond mere exfoliation. It's also recognized for stimulating collagen production, a crucial protein in maintaining skin's elasticity and firmness. This aspect contributes to its anti-aging benefits. Furthermore, its hydrating properties add to its appeal, as they help increase the skin's capacity to retain moisture, leading to a more supple and vibrant complexion.

Clinical studies have consistently supported glycolic acid's role in improving skin appearance. Research indicates significant improvements in skin texture and pigmentation and the visible reduction of wrinkles and fine lines with glycolic acid.

Despite its gentler nature, mandelic acid is potent in accelerating cell turnover, aiding in the removal of dead skin cells, and promoting a fresher, more rejuvenated skin appearance.

Mandelic acid's efficacy extends to a wide range of skin concerns. It's particularly beneficial in treating acne, as its antibacterial properties are effective against various strains of bacteria commonly associated with acne development. Moreover, it's known for regulating sebum production and reducing inflammation, further contributing to its acne-fighting capabilities.

Additionally, mandelic acid has shown promise in addressing hyperpigmentation. Its ability to inhibit melanin production helps reduce age spots, sun spots, and uneven skin tones, making it a valuable ingredient in skincare products targeting pigmentation issues. Studies have documented its effectiveness in improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, offering a multifaceted approach to skin rejuvenation.

Physiological effects of Mandelic acid

1. Exfoliation: Mandelic acid gently exfoliates the skin by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface, promoting their removal and revealing fresh, new skin underneath.
2. Antibacterial Properties: It possesses antibacterial properties, making it effective against acne-causing bacteria.
3. Reducing Hyperpigmentation: Mandelic acid is known for its ability to reduce hyperpigmentation, including age spots, sun spots, and marks left by acne, due to its ability to inhibit melanin production.
4. Anti-aging Effects: It stimulates collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improving the overall texture of aging skin.
5. Suitability for Sensitive Skin: Due to its larger molecular size compared to other AHAs, mandelic acid penetrates the skin more slowly and is less likely to cause irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.

Role in managing Dermatological Conditions

1. Acne Treatment: Its exfoliating and antibacterial properties make mandelic acid effective in treating acne, particularly in those with sensitive skin.
2. Melasma and Hyperpigmentation: It is beneficial in treating melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation, lightening dark spots without causing significant irritation.
3. Aging Skin: Mandelic acid is used in anti-aging skin care products to improve skin texture and diminish signs of aging.
4. Photo-Aging: It can help to reverse some of the damage caused by UV radiation, such as fine lines and uneven skin tone.

References

• Briden, M. E. (2004). Noninvasive treatments of acne. In Acne and its Therapy (pp. 341-357). Marcel Dekker.
• Taylor, M. B. (1999). Summary of mandelic acid for the improvement of skin conditions. Cosmetic Dermatology.
• Sharad, J. (2013). Glycolic acid peel therapy – a current review. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology.

Salicylic acid, a renowned beta hydroxy acid (BHA), stands as a cornerstone in the realm of dermatology and skincare due to its exceptional keratolytic and comedolytic properties. It has a unique ability to penetrate oil-laden hair follicle pores, making it particularly effective in treating acne-prone and oily skin types.

Salicylic acid works by dissolving the type of skin debris that clogs pores and causes acne, namely sebum and dead skin cells. It's a mild anti-bacterial- and a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, which help to reduce the redness and swelling associated with breakouts.

What sets salicylic acid apart in dermatological treatments is its ability to exfoliate the skin not just on the surface, but within the pores themselves. This is due to its oil-soluble nature, allowing it to penetrate deep into the pores and dissolve the keratin plugs that lead to blackheads and whiteheads.

Furthermore, salicylic acid also has the capacity to adjust the pH of the skin, creating an environment less favorable for the growth of acne-causing bacteria. Salicylic acid's efficacy in treating various skin conditions, particularly acne, has been extensively documented in the scientific literature. Studies have consistently shown its ability to reduce acne lesions, both in terms of count and severity. Additionally, salicylic acid is highly recommended for its effectiveness in treating other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and dandruff, due to its ability to soften and remove scales and flakes from the skin.

Physiological Effects of Salicylic Acid

1. Keratolytic Action: Salicylic acid is known for its ability to exfoliate the skin by dissolving the intercellular 'glue' that holds skin cells together, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
2. Comedolytic Effect: It is particularly effective in reducing comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) by unclogging pores and preventing the formation of new comedones.
3. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Salicylic acid reduces inflammation, which is beneficial in treating acne and other inflammatory skin conditions.
4. Sebum Regulation: It helps to regulate oil production, making it a valuable ingredient for managing oily and acne-prone skin.
5. Penetration Enhancement: Due to its lipophilic nature, it can penetrate sebum-filled follicles, making it effective in treating acne located deep within the pores.

Role in Managing Dermatological Conditions

1. Acne Vulgaris: Salicylic acid is a cornerstone in acne treatment, effective in both preventing and treating existing acne lesions.
2. Psoriasis: Its keratolytic properties make it useful in softening and removing scales associated with psoriasis.
3. Warts: Salicylic acid is commonly used in the treatment of warts due to its ability to exfoliate and remove the thickened skin.
4. Seborrheic Dermatitis: It helps in managing seborrheic dermatitis by reducing scaling and redness.
5. Keratosis Pilaris: Salicylic acid can aid in smoothing the rough bumps associated with keratosis pilaris.

References

• Zaenglein, A. L., Pathy, A. L., Schlosser, B. J., Alikhan, A., Baldwin, H. E., Berson, D. S., & Thiboutot, D. M. (2016). Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 74(5), 945-973.e33.
• Kornhauser, A., Coelho, S. G., & Hearing, V. J. (2010). Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 3, 135.
• Zander, E., & Weisman, S. (1992). Treatment of acne vulgaris with salicylic acid pads. Clinical Therapeutics.
• Gupta, A. K., & Nicol, K. (2004). The use of sulfur in dermatology. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.