“The first signs of aging typically show on the neck, yet skin-wise, it’s one of the most neglected areas on our bodies. Indicators of time — sagging, wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, and a crepey texture — can show up as early as the 20s,” writes Sarah Ferguson. 

One of the best ingredients to migrate from the face, down to the neck? Glycolic acid, the hero ingredient that can prevent acne and slow the visible signs of aging – everywhere.

Just as with the skin on the face? Bumps, blackheads, whiteheads, and other forms of acne can form on the neck.

“Many women use makeup on their necks to blend with the rest of their face. Because the neck has oil glands just like the rest of the face, it’s also subject to breakouts,” said Gretchen Frieling, MD, a dermatopathologist, to Well + Good.

Luckily, glycolic acid, is a superstar at not only treating current breakouts on the neck – but preventing future acne issues.

As the master exfoliator, glycolic acid works by quickly shedding off the dead cells on the surface of the skin. As a result, these dead skin cells can no longer mix with sebum or dirt, clog the pores, and then cause a subsequent blemish.

Additionally, glycolic acid’s ability to drive new skin cells to the surface of the skin also contributes to its’ superior blemish-banishing capabilities.

“Glycolic acid…is an alpha hydroxy acid with a smaller molecule, which means it can penetrate deeper into the pores to dissolve excess dirt, sebum, and pore-clogging skin cells. While that action alone helps to dissolve the oil and dirt that causes blackheads, it also supports cell turnover, which means your skin is creating new, healthier skin cells at a more rapid pace, which results in clearer skin,” esthetician Heather Wells said.

In addition to fighting acne, glycolic acid also offers up anti-aging help to the delicate skin on the neck.

A recent study published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology explained the benefits:

“The anti-aging benefits of AHAs have been known for many years…The exact mechanism of action for topical AHAs is still unknown, however the most widely accepted theory is that AHAs remove calcium ions from epidermal cell adhesions by chelation…

“This results in weakening of the intercellular adhesions which has an exfoliating effect by causing the shedding and flaking of dead and dry cells. The reduced calcium levels also promote further cell growth while slowing cell differentiation, thereby lessening the appearance of wrinkles and making the skin look younger,” “An antiaging skin care system containing alpha hydroxy acids and vitamins improves the biomechanical parameters of facial skin,” 

By driving newer cells to the surface of the skin, topically applied glycolic acid promotes tighter, plumper, firmer looking skin on the neck – quickly.

With the exfoliating powers of glycolic acid, formulators have the chance to help consumers banish acne, beat back fine lines, and promote firmer skin on the neck, all in one fell swoop.  

Take advantage of our new anti-aging guide, featuring the most innovative, highest-quality ingredients in the personal care industry.