Beauty
Derms break down how to use the chemical exfoliant below your ankles.
Sandal season may be over, but dont underestimate the power of having silkysmooth feetyear-round.
According to dermatologists, thechemical exfoliantcan be a godsend for rough trotters.
What Is Glycolic Acid?
Lindsey Zubritsky, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist.
Can Glycolic Acid Benefit Rough, Cracked Feet?
Rough andcracked feethappen because of severely dehydrated skin that essentially leads to dead skin buildup, saysDr.
Jenny Liu, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist.
When skin is super thickened akahyperkeratosis it is less pliable and therefore cracks more easily.
Liu likens it to rigid plastic that breaks instead of bends.
Thats where the AHA comes in.
Glycolic acid works by first reducing the hyperkeratosis, she notes.
Zubritsky agrees that dry, rough feet can be helped by routine exfoliation.
For example, formulas that also containhyaluronic acidorceramidescan help ensure your skin stays hydrated.
Liu recommends what she calls the soak and smear method for exfoliating your feet.
Soak your feet in lukewarm water for 5 to 10 minutes (or hop in the shower).
Stick your feet into a pair of cottonsocksand leave them overnight.
Repeat nightly and your skin texture should improve in a few weeks, Liu notes.
Both derms agree that glycolic acid is generally safe.
Studies referenced:
Kaminaka, C. (2014).
2014 Mar;40(3):314-22. doi: 10.1111/dsu.12417.
Narda, M. (2021).
