Does glycolic serum possess antibacterial properties?

Glycolic serum is derived from glycolic acid, which is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) primarily known for its exfoliating properties rather than its antibacterial effects. The primary function of glycolic acid is to help remove dead skin cells from the surface, which can improve skin texture and tone, and facilitate the penetration of other skincare ingredients.

While there are other ingredients known for their antibacterial properties, such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, glycolic acid does not inherently possess these properties. Therefore, the statement that it does not have antibacterial properties aligns with the understanding of glycolic acid's primary roles in skincare. This distinction is crucial for accurately understanding how different ingredients function in acne treatment and overall skincare regimens.

The other choices involve misunderstandings about glycolic acid's capabilities or misrepresent its function in skincare. For example, options about it being antibacterial, requiring a mix with other ingredients for such properties, or causing skin irritation, do not accurately reflect the unique characteristics of glycolic serum. While irritation can occur depending on individual skin sensitivity and concentration, it does not mean that glycolic acid functions as an antibacterial agent.