Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are both commonly used for chemical peels, a form of chemical exfoliation. They are among the safest exfoliation and increasing skin turnover methods. A shedding agent such as benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid and salicylic acid are important in treating acne because they shed the skin ridding the clogs pores of oil and dead skin cells as well as reducing or killing bacteria such as Propionibacterium acnes, leaving the patient with smoother and vibrant skin. Plus, they can stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which are responsible for maintaining skin elasticity. Signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines, develop when the body cannot create sufficient collagen and elastin.
Most dermatologists prefer salicylic acid to glycolic acid because of its less harsh on the skin. In fact, salicylic acid is a naturally occurring organic acid. Native Americans were the original discovers of the organic acid, which they found in particular trees.
The indigenous people would chew the barks of the trees that produced the natural acid to treat headaches and other inflammatory ailments. Today salicylic acid is used for skin treatments such as acne, aging skin, sun damage, stretchmark, scars and such. However, the form of salicylic acid that is used is a higher concentration than the natural acid used by Native Americans. But for acne it is ideal because it is an anti-inflammatory exfoliate that also soothes the skin.
Glycolic acid belongs to the alpha-hydroxy acids family, which comes from sugary fruits such as cantaloupe, unripe grapes, pineapple, sugarcane, and sugar beets. When used as a dermatological exfoliate, it reacts with the upper layer of the epidermis, diminishing the binding properties of the lipids that hold the dead skin cells together, to uncover your younger living cells that have been hidden underneath.
To be more effective, MD Beauty Secrets has combined glycolic and salicylic acid to treat patients with acne. Furthermore, we have lowered the concentration as well for patients to use it more regularly to control their acne breakouts without the harsh effects. The Gly/Sal 5-2 Cleanser delivers ultra pure glycolic acid and 2% salicylic acidfor gently cleansing acne prone and oily skin. The Gly/Sal 5-2 Pads are easy-to-use pads that promote exfoliation and control breakouts. The Gly / Sal 2-2 Pads are similar but have a lower concentration of glycolic acid for more sensitive skin. The Gly/Sal pads can be used in combination with the Gly/Sal cleanser.