If you are interested in skincare, chances are you have already come across the term glycolic acid. This powerful exfoliant is one of the most popular ingredients in the world of skincare. But did you know that you can also experience the benefits of glycolic acid without directly using products containing this ingredient? With natural extracts like Saccharum Officinarum (sugar cane) and multi-functional ingredients like Pentylene Glycol, you can also make your skin glow.
What is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid, or glycolic acid, is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) often praised for its powerful, exfoliating properties. Its small molecular size and low pKa allow it to penetrate the top skin layer and break down the ‘glue’ that holds dead skin cells together. This stimulates cell renewal and gives the skin a fresh, youthful appearance. But how is glycolic acid actually made? This is where the story gets less rosy.
The truth behind the shiny picture
Yes, glycolic acid works. It is a powerful exfoliant and stimulates cell renewal by loosening dead skin cells. This is because the molecule is super small and penetrates deep into your skin. Although glycolic acid occurs naturally in fruits like citrus, sugar cane and kiwi, in skincare it is usually produced synthetically. Why? Extracting glycolic acid from natural sources is inefficient and not necessarily sustainable.
For example, it takes about 1.6 kilograms of grapes to obtain enough glycolic acid for a 100ml (10%) bottle of exfoliating serum. Moreover, natural fruit extracts do not contain pure glycolic acid, but a mix of organic acids such as lactic, citric and malic acids, which are less effective due to their larger molecular size and higher pKa. Therefore, glycolic acid is usually made through chemical processes such as carbonylation, using formaldehyde and carbon monoxide.
However, this process can lead to:
+ Environmental risks: Formaldehyde and monochloroacetic acid (an alternative starting material) are both harmful to the environment.
+ Impurities: Residues of formaldehyde can remain in the final product, which can pose risks to the skin, such as irritation and allergic reactions.
But what if there are better options?
Fortunately, you don't have to compromise. There are great alternatives that are not only good for your skin, but also for the planet , which is what we at Nourished love.
Let's talk about two of our favourites: Saccharum Officinarum and Pentylene Glycol, both extracted from sugar beet.
Saccharum Officinarum
Saccharum Officinarum, better known as sugarcane extract, is a potent natural source of glycolic acid. It combines exfoliating properties with intensive moisturising and softening effects. Thanks to the sugars in the extract, it retains moisture in the skin, which is especially a lifesaver for dry or dull skin types. Moreover, it stimulates the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid, making your skin feel firmer and reducing the appearance of fine lines. The natural AHAs in sugarcane extract provide gentle, non-aggressive exfoliation that is suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
Our favourites products containing Saccharum Officinarum:
+ Ageless AHA Glow Concentrate
+ Renew & Restore Peel
+ Refining Face Polish
+ Seven Seed Sacred Oil
+ Hydrating Hair Mask
Pentylene Glycol
This clever ingredient is a real team player. It not only hydrates deeply, but also enhances the action of other active ingredients. What makes it extra special? During the breakdown process in the skin, it can partially turn into glycolic acid, but in a much gentler and skin-friendly way. Win-win, right?
Our favourites products that contain Pentylene Glycol:
+ White Tea Phyto-Retinol Elixir
+ Daily Face + Body Sunscreen Lotion SPF50
+ Radiant Glow
+ Collagen Calm Activated Mist
What your skin really needs
We get it. The marketing around glycolic acid sounds almost too good to be true. But we want you to choose products that are really good for you, with no hidden drawbacks. At Nourished, we're all about transparency, gentle yet effective ingredients and solutions that are good for both your skin and the world around you.
Our products with Saccharum Officinarum and Pentylene Glycol give you that glow you've been looking for, but without unnecessary mess or questionable manufacturing processes. And trust me, your skin will thank you.
Go for smart. Go for conscious. Go for Nourished.
