Can I use glycolic acid on my underarms everyday?

Author: Mathilde Pouros  |  Last update: Thursday, May 29, 2025

Glycolic acid should not be used daily in the armpit area. The skin in the armpit area is as delicate as in the eyelid area. Glycolic acid is irritating to the skin. It can be more irritating in the armpit area because of how thin the skin is in that area.

Can I use the ordinary glycolic acid on my armpits everyday?

"The maximum concentration of glycolic acid that can be used on this area is eight to 10%, but even that can be irritating, so the lower the concentration, the better," Garshick says. And it should be used sparingly, only one to two times per week.

Does glycolic acid remove dark underarms?

Yes, glycolic acid is very helpful in lighten dark armpits. Glycolic acid works by breaking down the top layer of skin, allowing fresh, even-toned skin to surface. However, it should be used cautiously, especially for sensitive skin, as high conce...

Can I use glycolic acid everyday on my arms?

Hi. Glycolic acid tends to cause irritation yes, and can damage skin barrier. Is usually suggested to be used 3 times a week or every other day and use SPF.

Can I leave glycolic acid on overnight?

Yes, glycolic acid can be used in the morning, but it requires careful application and diligent sun protection. For most individuals, reserving glycolic acid for nighttime use is a safer and equally effective approach.

HOW TO USE THE ORDINARY GLYCOLIC ACID 7% TONING SOLUTION TO CLEAR DARK SPOTS AND HYPERPIGMENTATION

What happens if you leave glycolic acid on too long?

(1) Because glycolic acid has no end point, allowing the acid to travel deeper than intended if left on the skin too long, it requires neutralization to end the peeling process. Due to its small molecular size, glycolic acid also has the ability to absorb quickly and can cause the skin to peel unevenly.

How long does it take for glycolic acid to lighten skin?

After about a month, you should notice clearer skin as glycolic acid works to keep skin clean and decongested. Two months in, you should see that dark spots and pigmentation is reduced as the regular glycolic acid application is melting away old, dead skin cells and increasing cell turnover.

Why is my skin getting darker after using glycolic acid?

“Those with darker skin tones, need to be cautious with glycolic acid,” warns Dr Buldeo. “It can cause a paradoxical darkening of the skin by stimulating melanocytes,” These are the melanin-producing cells in your skin's deepest layer so this can lead to hyperpigmentation in black skin.

What not to 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. However, alternating them between your morning and evening skincare routine means that you can enjoy the benefits without the risk of damaging your skin.

What are the side effects of glycolic acid daily?

Common side effects of Glycolic Acid include dry skin, erythema (skin redness), burning sensation, itching, skin irritation, and skin rash. Glycolic Acid can make the skin more sensitive in the sunlight, hence always use sunscreen and protective clothing before you step outdoors.

Does glycolic acid lighten the pubic area?

Depending on the strength of the acid and how deep in the skin the peel can act, there are three types of chemical peels: light, medium, and deep peels. For lightening the intimate area, the peels usually applied are glycolic acid, citric acid, and kojic acid.

Can you put deodorant on after glycolic acid?

Therefore. if you're doing something that you know will produce more sweat than usual, such as working out or a long social trip outside, once your glycolic acid dries, pop some deodorant on top too for extra protection.

Which glycolic acid is best for underarms?

Many people on social media spotlight The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7 Percent Toning Solution as their go-to underarm treatment—you just soak a cotton pad and swipe it over the area. But, according to LoGerfo, any facial product with less than 10% glycolic acid will do and avoid irritation.

Can I use glycolic acid every day?

Everyday usage is acceptable while using a rinse-off product, like a cleanser with glycolic acid. But, while using a leave-on glycolic acid product (such as a serum, gel, cream, mask, or peel), one should only apply it one to three times per week.

Does glycolic acid prevent razor bumps?

By sloughing off dead cells, it allows ingrown hairs to emerge without obstruction, reducing bumps and inflammation,” she says. "This is particularly handy if shaving or waxing are your hair removal methods of choice." Apply glycolic acid with a cotton pad once a day until the hair emerges and can be removed.

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 to pair with glycolic acid at night?

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 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.

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 you use glycolic acid under eyes?

Glycolic Acid is your go-to for an eye cream, gentle yet effective to demolish dark circles.

Does glycolic acid lighten skin permanently?

Does glycolic acid remove dark spots? Glycolic acid can not permanently remove dark spots or scars, but it can help fade dark patches of skin left by acne or sun damage.

How long to leave glycolic acid on armpits?

Yes, Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Stick is suitable for up to 1x daily use on the bikini line and underarm areas. If using on the underarms, apply 10-15 minutes before using deodorant/anti-perspirant.

How do I know if glycolic acid is working?

Signs that glycolic acid is working include smoother skin texture, fewer breakouts, and a more even skin tone. Some people may also notice a light tingling sensation on application, which is normal.

Does glycolic acid lighten private parts?

I agree with the previous opinion of not applying a glycolic acid peel to you genital area. Especially as you are trying to address hyperpigmentation, if it ends up resulting in any burns or irritation, it will make any hyperpigmentation worse.

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