Active ingredients in acne body washes will typically have either antibacterial or exfoliating properties. Glycolic acid (GA) is a chemical exfoliator, and is used in some over-the-counter body washes for acne. However, it is not as common as salicylic acid. Exfoliating body washes are best for non-inflammatory (comedonal) acne, such as blackheads.
In this article, we will cover what glycolic acid is and how it works to treat acne. Then read product reviews for the best glycolic acid body wash.
What is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), and the smallest we know about. It is a natural sugarcane derivative, similar to citric acid from fruits. GA is found in a variety of different body cleansing products, such as washes, creams, and gel peels. It is less harsh than salicylic acid, so skin can handle higher concentrations, from 3% upwards. Glycolic acid is commonly used to for anti-aging treatments, as well as for acne.
How it Works
Non-inflammatory acne is formed by clogged pores on the surface of skin. Oil builds up behind the clog and forms whiteheads or blackheads. This type of comedonal acne has nothing to do with the bacteria that cause inflammatory pimples and zits. For treating inflammatory acne, try an antibacterial body wash.
Exfoliation
Glycolic acid works to slough away dead cells on the surface of the skin. It is not oil soluble, so it cannot penetrate deep into pores like salicylic acid can. However, it can still work to dissolve dead skin cells, remove plugs, and re-open closed comedones (blackheads and whiteheads).
Anti-aging
Glycolic acid will effectively remove the top layer of dead skin cells. Fresh skin is revealed, and the cell regeneration process is sped up. After washing, the skin is left vibrant, smooth, and younger looking. You will notice more even skin tone and color, as well as less wrinkles and fine lines. Shedding away the outer layer of skin cells can also help eliminate deformed cells that may eventually lead to skin cancer.
Side Effects
Glycolic acid products are generally safe to use, however there may be side effects for some people, especially those with sensitive skin. GA can cause skin irritation, redness, dryness, and slight stinging or burning. Daily use of the product can also leave the skin more sensitive to the sun, so use sunscreen when outdoors.
Best Glycolic Acid Body Wash
Glytone Exfoliating Body Wash
This body wash by Glytone is a medical grade cosmeceutical that contains 8.8% glycolic acid. It will cleanse skin and slough away dead skin cells on the surface of your body. When showering, apply a rich lather to areas of your skin that are particularly rough or blemished. The result will be skin that is smooth, re-texturized, and evenly colored. Also, by exfoliating away the dead skin, you will be unclogging pores and preventing acne. Skin rejuvenation processes are also sped up to cure existing acne and red/brown spots.
MenScience Body Wash
MenScience makes a quality product line, and this body wash is specially formulated to treat acne. This body wash contains three effective acne-fighting ingredients. As mentioned, glycolic acid will work to exfoliate the outer layer of skin. Salicylic acid will also exfoliate skin cells, but it is oil soluble, so it gets deeper to oil clogged follicles to remove debris. Tea tree oil is a natural essential oil that has antibacterial properties, so it can kill acne causing bacteria. This product also contains aloe vera, allantoin, and urea to help moisturize and sooth the skin. There are no fragrances or dyes that can irritate skin.
Aqua Glycolic Shampoo & Body Cleanser
This cleanser by Aqua Glycolic can be used as both a body wash and a shampoo. It is a complete skin care solution in the shower. Like the other washes in this article, it contains glycolic acid as the main active ingredient. The concentration is a little higher though, at 14%. As a body wash, it will help alleviate acne, psoriasis, and seborrhea. As a shampoo, it will work to treat dandruff and dry scalp problems, such as itching and flaking. Keep in mind, it will make your skin more sensitive to UV rays, so always wear sunscreen after use.
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