Can I use glycolic acid every day?

Author: Mr. Jameson Mueller DVM  |  Last update: Friday, June 6, 2025

It is OK to use 1-2% containing glycolic acid face wash or ointments daily. The creams have a higher glycolic acid content (10% and above) and must only be used once or twice a week to avoid skin irritation. The creams with a concentration above 15% may need to be kept only for a few minutes and then wiped off.

What happens if I use glycolic acid every day?

Overuse can lead to skin irritation, redness, peeling, burning, stinging, and breakouts. It's crucial to listen to your skin and adjust usage accordingly, experimenting carefully without overdoing it. I am not affiliated with or sponsored by any skincare company; all content is created independently.

Can I use glycolic acid 7% everyday?

More irritation does not mean better results. You know your skin best and if you feel any discomfort, rinse off. Though gentle enough for everyday use, we generally recommend to exfoliate once or twice a week.

What should you not mix with glycolic acid?

What NOT to mix with Glycolic Acid. Retinol, other AHAs/BHAs, Vitamin C: Using these ingredients alongside Glycolic Acid in the same routine could irritate the skin.

Is 10% glycolic acid too much for the face?

It's fine daily if your skin is tolerating it and you aren't seeing any irritation. 10% is on the higher end for daily use but it's perfectly safe.

9 Glycolic Acid Hacks For The Best Skin Of Your Life | Dr. Idriss' Dermatologist Tips

Do you moisturize after glycolic acid?

6. Always moisturize after use. Glycolic acid exfoliates and hydrates the skin, but it can irritate or dry out sensitive skin. Always follow your glycolic acid application with an additional light moisturizer to reduce the effects of dryness and irritation on the skin.

Can I leave 10 glycolic acid on overnight?

Yes, Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight is a glycolic night treatment that you can leave on overnight to allow it to absorb into your skin.

What cancels out glycolic acid?

Glycolic acid and niacinamide.

Indeed, niacinamide used with AHA's like glycolic acid and lactic acid has no effect and can even cause redness. Since niacinamide has a pH of about 5-7, it can actually increase the lower pH of glycolic acid, which is about 3-4, and negate its properties.

What is the perfect pair for glycolic acid?

Apply vitamin C in the morning and glycolic acid at night. Glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid: Since hyaluronic acid loads up skin with moisture, it makes for an excellent pairing with glycolic acid. Look for a product that combines both for easiest application, though you can also layer serums.

Can you overuse glycolic acid?

Dr Zamani says: “Overusing glycolic acid can leave the skin red, dry and more sensitive to the sun. This can cause premature ageing, thinning of the skin and heightened risk of pigmentation.”

Can I use 8% glycolic acid every day?

It is OK to use 1-2% containing glycolic acid face wash or ointments daily. The creams have a higher glycolic acid content (10% and above) and must only be used once or twice a week to avoid skin irritation. The creams with a concentration above 15% may need to be kept only for a few minutes and then wiped off.

How many nights a week should I use glycolic acid?

For starters, you can use glycolic acid two to three times a week. Apply it at night rather than during the day since glycolic acid increases your skin's photosensitivity and makes it more susceptible to sunburn and damage. Once your skin has gotten used to the peel, you can begin to use it daily for the best results.

Can I leave glycolic acid toner on overnight?

Usage of the glycolic acid toner 👇🏻(unsponsored reel) ✅ Make sure your skin barrier is healthy before applying this product otherwise your face might have burning sensation as soon as you apply it (can be applied by all skin types but sensitive skin avoid it) ✅Application of glycolic acid should be only at NIGHT TIME.

How to know glycolic acid is working?

Be patient with the process: Your skin may feel a bit rough after your first few treatments. This is normal and just means that the glycolic acid is working. Unless your skin is irritated, keep using your glycolic acid product. You should slowly start to see smoother, more healthy skin.

What does glycolic acid do for armpits?

Underarm deodorants work by either inhibiting the growth of these bacteria, or by halting perspiration altogether. Acids such as glycolic and salicylic work as effective natural deodorants. Their low pH makes it impossible for odor-causing bacteria to survive on your skin, leaving you feeling fresh and confident.

What can I not mix with glycolic?

What NOT to mix with Glycolic Acid. Retinol, other AHAs/BHAs, Vitamin C: Using these ingredients alongside Glycolic Acid in the same routine could irritate the skin. However, alternating them between your morning and evening skincare routine means that you can enjoy the benefits without the risk of damaging your skin.

Can I use hyaluronic acid and glycolic acid together?

Having said this, if you have a skin type that feels tight and sensitive, you can try applying hyaluronic acid first and follow it up with glycolic acid. Doing so will ensure that your skin is fully moisturised and able to absorb all other formulations, resulting in a healthy complexion.

Should you take a break from glycolic acid?

It might take some time to build up your tolerance to glycolic acid, so if you're new, go slow at first, Dr. King suggests. She recommends taking an approach that's similar to skin cycling: Use your glycolic acid product once or twice a week to give your skin time to rest between applications.

Can I mix retinol and glycolic acid?

Yes, you can! With strategic use, the combined benefits of glycolic acid and retinol can help you attain a healthier, radiant complexion. Need help with your skincare routine? Take help from the L'Oréal Paris Skin Genius tool to get a customized skincare routine and take care of your skin like a pro.

What serum works best with glycolic acid?

Best Glycolic Acid Serums
  • Dr. ...
  • Minimalist 10% AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum.
  • L'Oreal Paris Glycolic Bright Face Serum.
  • Himalaya Dark Spot Clearing Turmeric Serum.
  • Dot & Key Watermelon 10% Glycolic Serum.
  • Rejusure 5% Glycolic Acid Facial Serum.
  • Lakme Glycolic Illuminate Face Serum.
  • Dermtribe 10% Glycolic Acid Face Serum.

Can you overdo glycolic acid?

However, as with all chemical exfoliants, using glycolic acid too frequently, at too high a concentration, or incorrectly can result in skin irritation or damage.

Can I use glycolic acid on lips?

If you plan on using glycolic acid in your lip care it is best to seek the advice of a trained professional to ensure the acid is not too potent for your lips. Salicylic acid is the most used BHA, and unlike other AHAs mentioned, this acid is oil-soluble with a smaller molecular size.

Does Cerave have glycolic acid?

With Lactic and Glycolic Acids to help minimize the appearance of fine lines, dark spots and pores.

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