Understanding the Skin's Layers
1. Epidermis – The Outer Protective Layer
The epidermis is the skin’s uppermost layer which is made up of a dead cell layer at the surface and an underlying live cell layer. The epidermis is the skin's protective barrier and is where glycolic does much of its work.
2. Dermis – The Supportive Middle Layer
Beneath the epidermis lies the dermis, a thicker layer made up of connective tissue, collagen, and elastin. It also contains the blood vessels, nerves, sweat glands, and oil (sebaceous) glands that serve the skin's functions.
3. Hypodermis (Subcutaneous Layer) – The Foundation
The hypodermis, or subcutaneous layer, is the deepest part of the skin. It consists mainly of fat and connective tissue, helping anchor the skin to underlying muscles and providing insulation and cushioning.
How and Where Glycolic Works
1. The Epidermis
Glycolic gently loosens the bonds between excess dead cells on the skin surface. This allows them to shed invisibly and reveal smoother, fresher, and more radiant skin underneath.
Now let's debunk the common myth that glycolic "thins the skin":
While glycolic does thin the dead cell layer, it actually thickens the live cell layer more — the net result being a thicker, and more resilient epidermis — not a thinner one!
2. The Dermis
Because glycolic has the smallest molecular size of all alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), it can more easily penetrate into the dermis to supports collagen synthesis for firmer-looking skin and a reduced appearance of fine lines.
