GlyMed+ is a professional skincare brand that blends pharmaceutical-grade actives with natural botanicals to address a range of skin concerns while supporting healthy-looking skin. Founded in 1991 by Master Aesthetician Christine Heathman, GlyMed+ was built on a commitment to effective skincare, thoughtful formulation and professional expertise.

Have you ever picked up a product in your esthetician's treatment room and wondered what sets it apart from other brands? If so, you are asking the right question.

GlyMed+ is about more than what's inside each formula. Our products are developed for use in professional treatments and personalized at-home routines, with licensed skincare professionals helping clients find the right approach for their unique needs. Here's what makes GlyMed+ different, from our founder's pioneering vision to the education and philosophy that continue to shape our brand.

GLYMED+ AT A GLANCE

WHAT IS GLYMED+?

GlyMed+ combines pharmaceutical-grade actives with natural botanicals to create targeted skincare for concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, sensitivity and visible signs of aging. Our approach goes beyond choosing ingredients for their individual benefits. It's about bringing them together in thoughtfully developed formulas that support visible results while respecting the skin's needs.

Our products are designed to complement professional treatments and your home care, helping your licensed skincare professional build routines around your skin type, tone, condition and goals.

Even our name reflects the philosophy behind our brand. Gly” comes from our first product, Glycolic Facial Cleanser with 10% Glycolic Acid. “Med” reflects our forward-thinking approach, and the plus sign stands for our standard of excellence.

WHO FOUNDED GLYMED+?

GlyMed+ was founded in 1991 by Christine Heathman, a Master Aesthetician, formulator, educator and advocate for advancing the standards of professional skincare. Recognized as a legend in professional aesthetics, Christine helped shape the evolution of clinical skincare through innovative formulations, advanced treatment protocols and a steadfast commitment to professional education.

HER STORY

Christine started her aesthetics career as a single mother working in the San Francisco Bay Area under the direction of Dr. Hale Tolleth. Determined to help her clients feel confident in their own skin, she pursued every facet of skin science she could find. She built her career around developing targeted treatments and advancing the knowledge of skincare professionals.

Her work has reached well beyond traditional skincare concerns to include pigmentation, acne, oncology-related skin concerns and traumatized skin.

Her founding philosophy, "Never Compromise," remains central to GlyMed+'s commitment to professional excellence, advanced skincare innovation and empowering licensed professionals.

HER MILESTONES

• Christine was the first esthetician to specialize in traumatized skin
• In 2001, she helped establish Utah's first Master Esthetic License, raising the bar for the entire profession
• In 2008, she was inducted into the Academy of Legends by the Aesthetics International Association in recognition of her industry knowledge, leadership and contributions
• In 2014, Christine received the prestigious Crystal Award for lifetime achievement in skincare.

You can read more about her journey on our founder page!

WHAT MAKES THIS BRAND DIFFERENT?

A few things set this skincare line apart from what you'll typically find at the mall or online.

• A Pioneer in Alpha Hydroxy Acids: We were among the first brands to introduce AHAs into clinical skincare in the United States.
• Pharmaceutical-Grade Meets Botanical: Key actives like Retinol, Vitamin C and Lactic Acid are held to a 99.9 percent purity standard and are combined with nourishing botanical extracts to support visible results without overlooking skin comfort.
• Formulas for Every Skin Type, Tone and Concern: Nobody gets left out of the routine.
• Tested and Cruelty-Free: Every formula is held to strict, independently verified standards.
• Sold Only Through Licensed Professionals: So you always get guidance tailored to your skin.
• Professional Education Resource: We provide our Pros with world-class education so they can use products to their full potential
  

HOW THE GLYMED+ 4-STEP SYSTEM WORKS

Healthy-looking skin benefits from a consistent routine that addresses its needs at every stage. GlyMed+'s four-step philosophy—Cleanse, Treat, Balance and Protect—provides a practical framework for building that routine.

Each of our products fits into one of these steps to serve a specific purpose.

STEP 1: CLEANSE

A clean start helps everything that follows work better. This step removes oil, makeup and daily buildup.

Product Favorites

• Glycolic Facial Cleanser with 10% Glycolic Acid
• Idyllic Cleanser with 3% Mandelic Acid
• Mega Cream Cleanser

STEP 2: TREAT

Use targeted products selected for concerns such as breakouts, uneven tone or visible signs of aging.

Product Favorites

• Retinol Rejuvenation Serum
• Restoring Fulvic Elixir

STEP 3: BALANCE

Support hydration and skin comfort with products chosen to complement your Treat step and help maintain the skin barrier.

Product Favorites

• Daily Repair Cream
• CBD Skin Mist
• Oxygen Cream

STEP 4: PROTECT

Daily sun protection helps defend against UV damage and premature visible aging.

Product Favorites

• Pure Glow SPF 60 Oil
• Oil-Free Protective Moisturizer with SPF 50

THE FOUR SUBLINES

GlyMed+ also organizes products into color-coded sublines to help distinguish different collections and their intended uses. The right combination depends on your skin concerns, your current routine and whether a product is intended for at-home or professional use.

• Main (Blue): Tried-and-true, everyday skincare essentials
• Elite (Purple): Advanced, luxurious formulas within the GlyMed+ collection
• Acne (Orange): Products targeted toward acne-prone skin and congestion.
• Professional Only (Gray): Exclusive formulas available to licensed professionals to use in-clinic.

EDUCATION AT THE CENTER OF OUR COMPANY

At GlyMed+, we believe professional education is essential to the future of aesthetics.

The GlyMed+ Advanced Aesthetic Institute (GAAIN) provides educational resources, advanced training, and certification opportunities designed to support licensed skincare professionals throughout their careers.

Our education philosophy focuses on strengthening the skills that matter most in the treatment room:

• Skin analysis and professional consultation
• Ingredient knowledge and formulation understanding
• Professional chemical peel selection and application
• Acne-focused skincare programs
• Hyperpigmentation and visible aging concerns
• Skin barrier assessment and support
• Customized treatment protocols
• Client education and home care recommendations
• Professional practice development

Professional Education Resources

GlyMed+ professionals have access to a range of educational opportunities, including:

• Live Webinars: Instructor-led education covering ingredients, treatments and professional skincare techniques.
• Professional Certifications: Structured learning opportunities designed to strengthen clinical understanding and practical skills.
• Hands-On Training: In-person instruction that helps skincare professionals build confidence in product selection, application and treatment customization.
• Treatment Protocols: Detailed guides to help professionals incorporate GlyMed+ products into services.
• GAAIN Educational Resources: Online learning materials covering skin science, ingredient education and advanced skincare topics.
• Professional Reference Materials: Product information, treatment guidance and resources to support responsible professional practice.
• Industry Events and Specialized Education: Opportunities for professionals to expand their knowledge and engage with educators and fellow skincare experts.

Our goal is not simply to deliver more education. It is to provide meaningful, practical learning that professionals can confidently apply in their businesses.

Because when skincare professionals grow, the entire industry benefits.

GIVING BACK: THE HEART BEHIND GLYMED+

At GlyMed+, caring for skin is part of a broader commitment to caring for people. That commitment extends beyond the treatment room through charitable initiatives that support individuals and communities facing difficult circumstances.

One meaningful example is Marie's Gift, a charitable program established in honor of Christine Heathman's aunt, Marie Smith Chakirian, who passed away from cancer in 1996.

Cancer treatments can contribute to skin changes such as dryness, sensitivity and discomfort. Through Marie's Gift, GlyMed+ provides carefully selected skincare products to eligible individuals undergoing or recovering from oncology treatments, with the goal of offering comfort and support during a challenging time.

GlyMed+ also supports charitable organizations and initiatives, including the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Tunnel to Towers Foundation and Major Brent Taylor Foundation.

Our belief is simple: Making a positive difference should extend beyond the products we create.

BUILD YOUR PERSONALIZED GLYMED+ ROUTINE

Now that you know what goes into every bottle, from pharmaceutical-grade purity to a four-step philosophy, the next step is finding the right routine for you. Because our products are sold exclusively through licensed professio nals, the best way to get started is with expert guidance.

A GlyMed+ Pro can assess your skin and recommend the exact combination of cleanse, treat, balance and protect products you need. Find a Pro near you and start your personalized routine today.

Frequently Asked Questions About GlyMed+ Skincare

WHAT IS GLYMED SKINCARE KNOWN FOR?

GlyMed+ is known for professional-grade skincare, advanced formulations, clinical skincare education and its commitment to licensed estheticians. Founded in 1991, the brand offers products designed to address the appearance of acne, aging, hyperpigmentation, dryness and other common skin concerns.

WHERE CAN I BUY GLYMED+ SKINCARE PRODUCTS?

GlyMed+ products are available through authorized professional channels, including participating skincare professionals and their personalized GlyMed+ online retail store found on GlyMed+’s website. Certain advanced products are reserved exclusively for qualified professionals.

IS GLYMED+ SUITABLE FOR ACNE-PRONE SKIN?

Yes, GlyMed+ offers targeted skincare products for acne-prone and oily skin. A licensed skincare professional can help build a regimen designed to improve the appearance of breakouts, congestion and related skin concerns while supporting barrier health.

IS GLYMED+ SKINCARE GOOD FOR SENSITIVE SKIN?

Yes, there are formulas specifically designed for sensitive skin, such as Comfort Cream with Aloe Vera and Mega Cream Cleanser. Because skin sensitivity varies, working with a skincare professional can help identify suitable products.

ARE GLYMED+ PRODUCTS SUITABLE FOR EVERYDAY USE?

Most GlyMed+ products are formulated for daily use as part of your four-step routine. Some targeted treatments, like masques, may be recommended a few times a week instead of daily, so it's best to follow your professional's specific guidance.

DOES GLYMED+ OFFER PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS FOR AESTHETICS PROFESSIONALS?

Yes. GlyMed+ offers both in-person and virtual education and certifications. Through live classes or the GlyMed+ Advanced Aesthetic Institute (GAAIN) learning software, licensed professionals can access educational resources, specialized training and certifications designed to strengthen their skills and professional development.