A prospective study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of a glycolic acid and salicylic acid serum in 66 patients (ages 17–46) with mild to moderate acne, cystic acne, rosacea, folliculitis, and keratosis pilaris. Participants applied the serum nightly for 2 weeks and completed a follow-up questionnaire; clinicians also performed a targeted skin assessment. Results • Over 90% reported significant improvement in acne, including reduced comedonal and cystic lesions. • 70–80% noted less oiliness and smoother, more even skin.

A 12-week clinical evaluation identified glycolic acid as one of the most effective chemical exfoliants for brightening and pigment reduction. Its small molecular size enabled deeper epidermal penetration, accelerating cell turnover and dispersing melanin within the stratum corneum. In vivo, glycolic acid significantly improved brightness and reduced persistent hyperpigmentation through enhanced desquamation and stimulation of epidermal renewal.