“Is Using Glycolic Acid Under Your Armpits Worth the Hype? Experts Weigh In”

They have been circulating on TikTok and Instagram for some time: videos in which beauty connoisseurs and enthusiasts demonstrate how they apply glycolic acid under their armpits. They rave about its benefits, but is it worth the hype?

What is it exactly?

Glycolic acid, or glycolic acid, is a chemical exfoliant. “It is one of the smallest alpha hydroxy acids and has a lower molecular weight than other acids, so it can penetrate the skin more deeply and more efficiently,” explains dermatologist Martha H. Viera off on InStyle. According to the dermatologist, it is a fantastic exfoliant, because it irritates the skin minimally.

Of hype

More and more people are reporting on social media that they use glycolic acid under their armpits. Beauty experts proclaim that this works as a deodorant and that it can tackle hyperpigmentation under your arms. To what extent is this correct?

“Glycolic acid will not help you sweat less,” explains a dermatologist nurse Jodi LoGerfo, something that an anti-transparent does (not to be confused with deodorant, which only helps to ward off unpleasant odors). However, it can be useful in another way. “It’s an acid with a lower pH than your skin, so it can help fight off the bacteria that normally cause unpleasant odors.”

In that case you could use the product as an alternative to deodorant, but if you use an antiperspirant because you want to sweat less, glycolic acid is not a good substitute.

Dark armpits

And then there are the people who use the glycolic acid to reduce hyperpigmentation under the armpits. Does that really help? Dr. Viera says this is a possibility. “Glycolic acid helps exfoliate the top layer of your skin.” This layer of your skin usually contains the darker pigments. “It’s not a bleach, but it’s an effective way to treat hyperpigmentation.”

In addition, glycolic acid has another nice effect on your armpits if you shave this area regularly. It can also prevent ingrown hairs. “It’s a fantastic way to soothe the skin because of its exfoliating properties.”

Sounds like only benefits, but you shouldn’t start using glycolic acid under your armpits indiscriminately. The skin under your armpits is very sensitive. Therefore, only use a glycolic acid product that contains less than 10 percent glycolic acid. In addition, it is best to use it only before going to sleep to reduce the risk of irritation.

Source: InStyle | Image: Adobe Stock