Glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid, or AHA, that can be an effective staple of any skin care regimen. A glycolic acid molecule is extremely small, enabling it to penetrate the skin more easily and deliver powerful results. While glycolic acid is often administered as a peel, using a glycolic acid cream can deliver greater benefit, since it is left on to be absorbed by the skin.

Glycolic cream--also known as glycolic acid cream--is a skin product produced from glycolic acid, a naturally occurring alpha hydroxy acid that is derived from cane sugar, unripe grapes and sugar beets. Glycolic acid is the main active ingredient in formulations such as glycolic creams, which offer a number of cosmetic and medicinal benefits.

Exfoliation

Glycolic acid removes dead skin cells, clearing pores and allowing for greater absorption of vitamins and minerals.

Anti-Aging

Glycolic acid speeds the growth of collagen, a protein that contributes to the skins vitality and elasticity.

Glycolic cream is beneficial for reducing lines and wrinkles that result from the aging process. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that the glycolic acid in this skin cream is beneficial in the treatment of skin wrinkles and blemishes.

When applied topically to the skin, it has a strong exfoliating action that promotes the shedding of dead skin cells, which results in younger, healthier skin.

Acne

Glycolic cream is beneficial in treating and preventing acne. Lawrence E. Gibson, M.D. of the Mayo Clinic reports that glycolic acid is a natural treatment that can help reduce inflammation and acne breakouts. In an October, 2009 article, he writes that glycolic acid works by helping to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells. It may also help to improve the appearance of your acne scars.

Melasma

According to PubMed via the NIH, glycolic cream can be used to treat melasma. Melasma is a common skin disorder that is characterized by a dark discoloration on areas of the face that are exposed to the sun. Glycolic acid cream in strengths from 10 percent to 20 percent as an effective skin-lightening treatment for cases of severe melasma. The findings of a 1997 study published by the National Institutes of Health indicate that a cream containing 10 percent glycolic acid helped to improve melasma.