FAQs
Q1. What makes Glyco-12 Cream different from over-the-counter glycolic acid products?
A1. Glyco-12 Cream contains 12% Glycolic Acid — above the 10% threshold found in OTC exfoliants — making it a prescription-strength formulation used under dermatologist guidance. At this concentration, glycolic acid dissolves the intercellular bonds (desmosomes) between corneocytes far more completely, producing thorough exfoliation of accumulated dead skin and more significant stimulation of collagen synthesis in the dermis. This makes it suitable for acne scars, significant melasma, and photoageing that do not respond to lower-strength alternatives.
Q2. How does Glyco-12 Cream specifically help PIH and post-acne dark marks on Indian skin?
A2. By accelerating epidermal cell turnover, Glyco-12 Cream continuously replaces hyperpigmented cells with new, unpigmented keratinocytes — gradually fading the dark marks that persist after acne or inflammation on Fitzpatrick III–VI skin tones. Glycolic Acid also lowers the skin surface pH, which reduces tyrosinase enzyme activity and partially suppresses new melanin formation. For South Asian skin where PIH outlasts the acne itself by months, this dual action makes Glyco-12 a clinically useful depigmenting tool.
Q3. Why should I avoid layering Glyco-12 Cream with retinol or other exfoliating acids?
A3. Glyco-12 at 12% is already a potent chemical exfoliant. Adding retinol, other AHAs, BHAs, or high-concentration Vitamin C on the same night produces excessive cell turnover, significantly increases photosensitivity, and can cause chemical irritation that paradoxically worsens PIH. The recommended approach: use Vitamin C in the morning (with SPF), use Glyco-12 at night, and introduce retinol only after your skin has stabilised on the glycolic acid regimen — and always under your dermatologist's guidance.
Q4. How should a first-time Glyco-12 Cream user start to avoid over-exfoliation?
A4. Begin with every-other-night application for the first two weeks. A mild burning or tingling sensation on first contact is normal and typically fades within a few minutes. If prolonged redness, peeling, or stinging occurs, reduce to twice weekly and consult your dermatologist before progressing. Never apply to broken, sunburnt, actively inflamed, or eczema-affected skin, and always cleanse before applying to ensure the cream contacts the skin directly.
Q5. Is daily sunscreen mandatory while using Glyco-12 Cream?
A5. Non-negotiable. Glycolic acid removes the stratum corneum's outermost cell layers, dramatically increasing UV sensitivity. Unprotected sun exposure during Glyco-12 treatment causes rapid PIH worsening on the newly exposed skin — directly counteracting the depigmenting goal. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or above every morning without exception, reapply during the day, and avoid prolonged peak-hour sun.