Comparison between glycolic acid and salicylic acid

Have you ever thought when you read the ingredients on a certain product, or the key ingredients on the website, what is actually the importance of the stated acids?

Today's blog is only between two acids: Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid.

In short, what is the advantage of one over the other, the importance, the differences, the advantages and disadvantages... a kind of boxing match between acids. 

Before  to enter the analysis, it is good to know that if these acids are used correctly and appropriately, each of them can offer a series of benefits for your skin. Are you wondering why I chose these acids? Well, because they are the most common in the skin care range.

1. WHAT IS SALICYLIC ACID?

One of the beta-hydroxides of plant origin that is found naturally in Gaultheria leaves and sweet birch bark. At the base, it is a lipophilic molecule, meaning that it is attracted to adhesives, which makes it mix better with oil than with water. This acid is beneficial in skin care products, especially if you are prone to having oily skin. Another important role is to remove accumulated dirt, sebum, unwanted substances and pores, also used for anti-inflammatory purposes.

WHAT IS IT  Glycolic acid

It is part of alpha-hydroxy, even if it does NOT have deep penetration properties, it can provide a delicate but effective cleansing, leading to a calming sensation on the surface of the skin. In the natural component, being one of the sugar cane molecules. Glycolic is one of the mildest acids found in skin care ingredient lists, yet still offers excellent exfoliating properties.

2. WHEN to use SALICYLIC ACID?

If you have related problems or are prone to clogged pores, salicylic acid is the acid you need, because it penetrates deep into the skin, an example of a product can be:

CENTELLA MILD CLEANSING FOAM - A gentle cleansing foam infused with 49.9% centella extract to cleanse impurities without causing harsh skin irritation, being infused with 0.2% salicylic acid to remove dead cells and minimize the appearance of pores, it also contributes to soothing and moisturizing the skin.

WHEN to use Glycolic acid

It is recommended to use glycolic acid for facial peeling, this type of acid is very useful when we remove the upper layer of dead skin cells through delicate exfoliation. The process ultimately helps to grow and renew living cells for a brighter and more youthful appearance, this type of acid is frequently used in skin care routines and for those with acne

BUBBLE TONER GREEN PLUM + AHA- The toner from Beauty of Joseon is enriched with natural Hanbang ingredients (cocktail of medicinal plants from South Korea) that help to obtain a glowing complexion. Having a foam consistency, it has a refreshing effect on the skin, being very easy to apply. It contains glycolic acid along with a delicate exfoliating solution containing 25% water from green plums.

3. THE ADVANTAGE OF SALICYLIC ACID

One of its advantages is that even though it is one of the most powerful beta-hydroxy acids, when used correctly, it does not have the same drying effect on the skin as other similar ingredients, therefore this makes it a superb choice for anyone with combination skin or who may suffer from regular acne breakouts.

THE ADVANTAGE OF GLYCOLIC ACID

The best ways to use glycolic acid is when targeting signs of aging, especially around the eyes, lips and other delicate skin areas, because alpha-hydroxy acids are gentler than their beta-hydroxy counterparts, making them ideal for targeted serums.

4. WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOUR SKIN?

Look at the threshold of the question after an analysis between the two acids. How can I tell which is beneficial for my skin type? This is the question that is troubling you at this moment. The answer is in the following lines.

The result of the skin depends on many factors, some internal others external, in general salicylic acid but also glycolic acid both have an effect of reducing the appearance and redness of acne, BUT the anti-inflammatory benefits that salicylic acid offers makes him the winner in this comparison.

But if we refer to the case of chemical peels, both salicylic acid and glycolic acid can be used, the slightly more aggressive approach of salicylic acid can be potentially drier for the skin than glycolic acid.

If you intend to use chemical peels regularly, glycolic acid is the most suitable choice, but for a punctual and targeted approach to certain skin problems, the more aggressive salicylic acid may be preferred by the dermatologist

CONCLUSION:

I believe that each acid has its important role on the skin, and we cannot make a comparison when each one has its purpose on what it is determined to offer and be useful. Personally, I think that both acids are equal, each presented its advantage and purpose and especially when it can be used.

Until the next #WowBlog, the team wishes you to take care of your skin health and tell us... which acid do you think won?