ABSTRACT
There are currently hundreds of over-the-counter skin care products that contain glycolic acid and lactic acid in concentrations of 8%. Claims made by cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies include reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, skin moisturization, improvement of skin firmness, and generally diminishing the visible signs of aging. The Wall Street Journal reported that sales of two glycolic acid products approached $300 million in 1994 [1]. In addition, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) have contributed to the 10% annual growth in recent years of the hand and body skin care market, with sales in 1994 reaching $5.4 billion [2]. One naturally must
question whether this billion dollar industry is based on scientific evidence or driven by clever marketing.
