I’m making a change, though, introducing glycolic acid body washes into my routine and keeping a body lotion on my nightstand. Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy-acid (AHA), it’s an acid suitable for the face, neck and body. Glycolic acid has a smaller molecular size than other AHAs, so it can penetrate the skin more. “In addition to exfoliation, glycolic acid can help unclog pores and enhance the skin’s ability to absorb other skincare products. Dr Ahmed El Muntasar Also known as The Aesthetics Doctor, Dr Ahmed is an award-winning aesthetics doctor with clinics in London, Leeds, and Cheshire.