True or False: Glycolic serum has antibacterial properties.

Glycolic acid is primarily known for its exfoliating properties, as it is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, promoting cell turnover and enhancing skin texture. While it can contribute to overall skin health and improve conditions like acne when used appropriately, glycolic acid does not possess intrinsic antibacterial properties like some other ingredients specifically known for that purpose, such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

In practice, glycolic acid’s effectiveness in treating acne is more about preventing clogged pores and improving skin cell turnover rather than acting as a direct antibacterial agent. This is why the statement regarding its antibacterial properties is false. Thus, it is important to understand the role of glycolic serum in skincare, focusing on its exfoliating benefits rather than antibacterial effects.