Sugar is known to be a gentle exfoliant because of the alpha-hydroxy-acid or glycolic acid it contains. Glycolic acid works on the skin as an exfoliating agent because of its high acidity but easy solubility. When it is placed on the skin the glycolic acid goes under the damaged upper layers of skin and removes the dead skin which is holding on to the skin's surface. As the skin is removed, the other ingredients carry the individual flakes away and a water rinse neutralizes the remaining acid. Glycolic acid can bring about a smoother skin surface and a more youthful appearance. Glycolic acid is also able to draw moisturizers into the newly-exfoliated skin surface.
