The versatile glycolic acid graces the ingredient lists of a catalogue of skincare products. From masks to peel to concentrates to cleansers — you name it. But what precisely is the function of this active ingredient derived from nature’s bounty? In this article, we aim to answer all these burning questions about Glycolic acid. We kick start with a quick introduction to the skincare workhorse, follow it up with the myriad of benefits it brings to your vanity and conclude with the six best glycolic acid face washes available on Nykaa. So stay tuned and keep scrolling!
What Is Glycolic Acid?
Derived from sugarcane, Glycolic Acid is a water-soluble active ingredient. It falls under the umbrella of AHAs or Alpha-Hydroxy Acids which are known for their exfoliating properties. Owing to its smallest molecular size (amongst all other variants of AHAs), Glycolic acid percolates deep into the skin, treating concerns from the inside out.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Glycolic Acid?
As touched upon briefly in the introduction, Glycolic acid’s omnipresence in skin care may be attributed to its versatility. Some of which have been mentioned below.
- Smoother, Softer Skin: Due to its exfoliation prowess, Glycolic Acid helps eradicate the accumulation of dead cells on the dermis. And in the process, reveals a smoother, brighter surface sitting underneath.
- Promotes Skin Health: Glycolic acid is adept in promoting cellular turnover. This ensures the healthy, glowy appearance of your skin on the outside.
- Removes Wrinkles And Blemishes: The ability of Glycolic acid to hydrate and cut collagen depletion substantially makes it a fitting choice for an age-reversing regimen.
- Helps Curb Acne: Glycolic acid is competent at keeping the oil production by the sebaceous glands in check. It also works meticulously to de-clog pores and hence prevents acne breakouts.
6 Best Glycolic Acid Based Face Washes You Should Buy From Nykaa
Now that you are well versed with the bountiful benefits of Glycolic acid— it’s easier to weave the ingredient into your regimen based on your pertinent skin concern. To help you in this endeavour, we are bringing forth a list of 6 best Glycolic acid face washes available on Nykaa. A cleanser or face wash has the lowest concentration of glycolic acid amongst other products like serums and ampoules. This is why, we recommend giving the below recommendations a shot if you are new to this exfoliating, active ingredient.
1. L’Oreal Paris Glycolic Bright Daily Foaming Face Cleanser
Price: INR 329
Rating: 4.4
If you grapple with blemishes and dark spots, add the Foaming Face Cleanser w/ GA by L’Oreal Paris to your regimen, STAT. The star ingredient of this potent concoction, Glycolic Acid (no prizes for guessing), helps slough off the layer of dead cells sitting atop the dermis. It also percolates into the deepest layers of the skin and removes melanin, the primary reason for dark spots. The face wash lathers extremely well and is the holy grail to achieve beaming skin. Furthermore, this alcohol-free, fragrance-free, paraben-devoid offering has been deemed fit for all skin types. Grab yours now, only from nykaa.com.
2. Minimalist 7% AHA Brightening Face Wash With Glycolic Acid
Price: INR 399
Rating: 4.4
This infallible face wash by the coveted brand Minimalist will grant you bright, evenly toned and glowing skin. The presence of the multi-functional Glycolic acid exterminates the buildup on the skin and promotes cellular turnover. Also in the blend is alpha lipoic acid– which facilitates the production of vitamins E and C. This sheer abundance of antioxidants helps shield the skin barrier from continual sun exposure.
3. The Derma Co Oil-Free Daily Face Wash With Glycolic Acid
Price: INR 275
Rating: 4.2
If the sebaceous glands on your face are perpetually in an overdrive mode-we recommend grabbing this nifty li’l offering from The Derma Co! Imbued with glycolic acid, the oil-free cleanser removes unwarranted shine while gently exfoliating the dermis. Formulated by dermatologists, this product also features Hyaluronic acid. HA is a competent humectant which binds water molecules to the skin and keeps it soft, supple around the clock.
4. Pilgrim Salicylic BHA And Glycolic Acid Foaming Face Wash
Price: INR 345
Rating: 4.4
The luxurious foaming formula of the Pilgrim AHA Face Wash has been designed to target oily and acne-prone skin. It brings the unique combination of salicylic acid (a BHA) and glycolic acid (an AHA) to the forefront —zapping excess oil, grime and dead cells from the skin’s surface. This face wash also administers an even skin tone by dwindling discolouration and visibly reducing redness (accompanied by acne breakout). Furthermore, nutmeg in the blend curbs sebum production and alleviates episodes of inflammation.
5. Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser
Price: INR 1250
Rating: 4.6
Mario Badescu Glycolic Cleanser is a luxe offering from Nykaa’s Conscious Store— which delivers on its promise of deep-cleansing the skin while administering an even, healthy tone. The formulation is brimming with glycolic acid and an assortment of botanical herbs which detoxify the pores, revealing a clear complexion with an incomparable radiance. If you want to realise your skin’s optimal potential, we recommend adding this product to your vanity!
6. O3+ Glycolic Acid Face Wash For Radiance
Price: INR 325
Rating: 4.5
Are you on the lookout for a meticulous cleanser which purges the pores of dirt and grime yet is gentle? Get your hands on the O3+ Glycolic Acid Face Wash For Radiance. It features a healthy blend of bio-nutrients, antioxidants and resurfacing ingredients which ensures a thorough cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural oils. This vegan, dermatologically tested and cruelty-free product is a must-have for people who struggle with textured skin.
