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Here's Why You Need Glycolic Acid in Your Skin Care Routine

The superstar ingredient has the power to treat any and all of your complexion concerns... enough said. Find it in these seven skin-saving products
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Glycolic Acid Mask
Try: Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari BabyFacial, $80

With a whopping 25 percent glycolic acid, this at-home mask is a close substitute for an in-office peel. And while yes, 25 percent is a high concentration to find in an OTC product, this formula also includes a whole batch of calming and soothing ingredients -- think antioxidant-rich matcha and redness-reducing niacinamide -- so that even the sensitive set can use it. Use weekly and leave on for 20 minutes before rinsing and following up with the (included) marula oil. Snag one while you can; since launching in Sephora on January 10, this newbie has already sold out three times.

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Glycolic Acid Night Cream
Try: Glytone Age-Defying Antioxidant Night Cream, $90, or L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Dual Overnight Moisturizer, $19.99

A glycolic acid-based night cream is choice for those looking to reap the wrinkle-fighting benefits of the ingredient: "It's a fantastic way to help build collagen over time," says Hooper. Glytone's formula also has the added benefits of skin-smoothing peptides and antioxidants to combat damaging free radicals. L'Oreal's night cream combines glycolic acid with retinol and vitamin C to battle wrinkles and dark spots.

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Glycolic Acid Body Lotion
Try: Exuviance Retexturing Treatment, $42

Talk about a body lotion with benefits. Standard moisturizing suspects (vitamin E, shea butter) are coupled with 10 percent glycolic acid, making this a great leave-on exfoliator. Slather it all over your bod anytime skin is superdry and flaky, or to treat keratosis pilaris (aka K.P. or chicken skin). Those unsightly bumps on the backs of your arms pop up when excess keratin blocks the hair follicles; glycolic acid works to keep those follicles clear and your skin bump-free.

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Glycolic Acid In-Grown Hair Treatment
Try: Bliss Ingrown Eliminating Pads, $38

Pre-soaked in a combo of both glycolic and salicylic acids, a quick swipe with these pads will keep your bikini-line bump-free. "Glycolic acid dissolves anything that's blocking the hair follicle and causing these bumps," explains Hooper. Use daily, post-showering, in between your waxing or shaving sessions.

BY MELANIE RUD CHADWICK | FEB 7, 2017 | SHARES
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