Which statement about glycolic acid is true?

Which statement about glycolic acid is true?

• A. It is a beta hydroxy acid
• B. It is a ceramide
• C. It is an alpha hydroxy acid that breaks bonds between skin cells and promotes exfoliation
• D. It is a sunscreen agent

Answer: (C)

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that works by loosening the bonds between skin cells in the outermost layer, the stratum corneum. This breaking of intercellular bonds, especially desmosomes, allows dead skin cells to shed more easily, promoting exfoliation and a smoother, brighter complexion. Because glycolic acid is the smallest AHA, it penetrates well and can be quite effective, which is why concentrations vary and why sunscreen is important to protect new, exposed skin. It’s not a beta hydroxy acid (that label belongs to salicylic acid, which is oil-soluble and tends to act more inside pores). It’s not a ceramide, which are lipid components that help maintain the skin’s barrier, and it’s not a sunscreen agent, so it doesn’t provide UV protection by itself.

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that works by loosening the bonds between skin cells in the outermost layer, the stratum corneum. This breaking of intercellular bonds, especially desmosomes, allows dead skin cells to shed more easily, promoting exfoliation and a smoother, brighter complexion. Because glycolic acid is the smallest AHA, it penetrates well and can be quite effective, which is why concentrations vary and why sunscreen is important to protect new, exposed skin. It’s not a beta hydroxy acid (that label belongs to salicylic acid, which is oil-soluble and tends to act more inside pores). It’s not a ceramide, which are lipid components that help maintain the skin’s barrier, and it’s not a sunscreen agent, so it doesn’t provide UV protection by itself.