can glycolic acid make your dark spots darker?

“Glycolic dissolves the connections between dead skin cells, so they shed more quickly,” explains Joshua Zeichner, M.D., Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City and member of the L'Oréal Paris advisory board. Teeny-tiny glycolic acid molecules penetrate deeply and force those cells off your face.

HOW IT WORKSĭark spots form when abnormally pigmented cells cluster on skin’s surface. “Glycolic is one of the cornerstones of dermatology because it truly can change the landscape of skin by helping improve tone, texture, and fine lines, and it can be used on all skin tones and types-that’s why it’s so popular,” says Jeanine Downie, M.D., founder of Image Dermatology in Monclair, New Jersey. In fact, derms recommend it on the reg and even use super-high concentrations for in-office treatments. The alpha-hydroxy acid has been around for ages in cleaners, serums, and peels because it really works.

Yes, you’ve probably heard about this hero ingredient before. Doesn’t matter-put whatever iffy skincare behavior you’re guilty of (or not) in the rearview, because there’s help on the way. Or maybe you picked at a big zit months ago and still have a mark. Okay, so kinda sorta forgot to reapply sunscreen a few times and now you’re dealing with brown spots or splotches.

Can glycolic acid make your dark spots darker?