Tiktok Trending Glycolic Acid For Your Hair

We are no strangers to glycolic acid. We often hear and see this acid on skincare brands. But glycolic acid for your hair? Hmmm…not until a trend started on Tiktok. Apparently, glycolic acid can cure dandruff. I needed to find out the science behind this claim. So I did some reading and here is what I discovered. Glycolic acid is a water-soluble alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is commonly used in skincare products. It is a water-soluble crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water making it easily absorbed by the skin. It is commonly used in skincare products to improve skin texture and slow down aging. It is also a powerful component of acne-fighting products. But what does it do to the hair? What is glycolic acid on hair products? To explain the benefits of glycolic acid in the hair, let us go back to how it works on the skin. Glycolic acid works by creating a peeling effect on the skin. The glycolic acid absorbed by the skin breaks the bond between the top layer of the skin and the next layer. Thus creating a peeling effect that reveals the new and younger skin underneath. Apart from this, on acne-prone skin, glycolic acid acts as a peeling agent for gunk and oil build-up on the skin preventing acne.

How does this apply to the hair and scalp? How do you use this in the hair?

In the same way, glycolic acid works on the skin, glycolic acid when absorbed by the scalp weakens the bond between the dead skin and the newer skin underneath. Thus removing flakes and dandruff on the scalp. Many of you will ask if glycolic acid can also make the hair grow longer and stronger. The answer is that a healthy scalp breeds healthy hair. We all know that healthy hair comes from a healthy scalp. Once your scalp rakes in the benefits of glycolic acid, with the help of other compatible hair care products, you can have stronger and healthier hair.

How to apply glycolic acid to the hair?

Apply glycolic acid on your wet or dry scalp as a pre-shampoo treatment. Leave it for a few minutes and wash it off with your regular shampoo and conditioner. Do this once or twice a week.

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This product has been on the market for a while and I must admit I don’t really care about this product until it became a Tiktok sensation. To my regret, I should have used this product earlier. It is cheap and does not break the bank. And it does work! It is used for multiple purposes like underarm odour control, sweaty armpit, treating dark areas, craked feet, strawberry skin, lightening acne scars, dandruff, bikini razor bumps or ingrown.

Safety and Precaution

Although most glycolic acid in the market is safe, it is still advisable to do a patch test before using this product. Some skin is uber-sensitive and may react differently using this acid. Using glycolic acid on the scalp is generally safe but too much of this product can weaken the hair and may cause hair loss. Limit your use of glycolic acid as a scalp scrub or treatment to only once or twice a week.  

FAQ

Can glycolic acid really improve dandruff and the appearance of a flaky scalp?

• Yes, glycolic acid is effective in removing dandruff and flakes.

 

Is glycolic acid good for your scalp?

• Yes, glycolic acid is good for the scalp if you use it properly. Use for only once or twice a week to avoid weakening your hair and scalp.

 

Can I leave glycolic acid in the scalp overnight?

• Use glycolic acid as a pre-shampoo treatment and leave it on your scalp for up to 10 minutes. Wash with your regular shampoo and conditioner.

 

How long should I leave glycolic acid in the scalp?

• We recommend leaving glycolic acid on the scalp for a few minutes, up to 10 minutes.

 

What are the side effects of glycolic acid?

• Sensitive skin may react differently to glycolic acid. This may cause redness and irritation to your skin. On the scalp, using glycolic acid in excess can weaken the hair strands.

 

What should you not mix with glycolic acid?

• Glycolic acid is not compatible with salicylic acid. These two products are proven to work in removing dead skin, but mixing them can cause skin irritation.

 

When should I use glycolic acid in my routine?

• Use glycolic acid as a pre-shampoo treatment. Wash it off using your regular shampoo and conditioner.

 

How to use glycolic acid safely?

• When using any acid or chemical, always follow the instructions in the bottle. These instructions are given by the manufacturer with the intention of safety and efficacy.

 

What are the other uses of glycolic acid?

• Apart from preventing flakes and dandruff, glycolic acid is also used in the skincare and cosmetic industry for its anti-aging benefits. It is also used to help in preventing acne and clarifying the skin.

 

Can I use Vitamin C  with glycolic acid?

•  It is not advisable to use Vitamin C with glycolic acid. Both are acids that might burn the skin if used in excess.

 

Takeaway

Tiktok has created many different trends. Some are useful and some might be questionable. One of the useful trends is the glycolic acid for the hair. Although glycolic acid in the right amount is generally safe for use, doing your own research is the best before jumping on the bandwagon. The safest way is to consult a professional, especially with things that can affect your health and safety.