Glycolic acid is an alpha‑hydroxy acid (AHA) used topically to improve acne, hyperpigmentation, and photoaging by accelerating exfoliation and promoting epidermal renewal. At low concentrations in creams, it weakens corneodesmosomes in the outer stratum corneum to enhance desquamation without disrupting barrier function, smoothing texture and brightening tone. It can stimulate dermal remodeling, including increases in collagen gene expression and hyaluronic acid, supporting anti‑aging benefits over time.