One thing: we hope you're not using EVERY Glycolic Acid product at once. Too much of a good thing is, you know, really bad. You could end up over-exfoliating your skin, making it red, irritated, and vulnerable.
Using glycolic acid can benefit the skin, but overdoing it can lead to unwanted consequences. Excessive use can cause irritation, redness, itching, and burning sensations, leaving your skin feeling dry and sensitive.
Now, the important thing to remember is, glycolic acid comes in various concentrations. 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.
'Repeated use might end up damaging the collagen -- the deeper layers of skin -- giving rise to thickening, paleness and shininess (imagine Hollywood actors who've had too much facial work done). '
Glycolic acid can be used on the face and let it absorbed into the skin by leaving it on all night. Rinse off with water the next day.
Skin purging is said to last 4-6 weeks, however, everyone's skin is different (2). This is only temporary and will eventually subside as your skin adjusts to the new treatment. In the meantime, it is important to cleanse gently and avoid picking at your skin, as this can cause further irritation.
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. 7.
Red, irritated skin is likely the first sign that you exfoliate too much. Immediately after any exfoliation, the skin will appear slightly red and puffy. However, if the redness and irritation linger for hours or into the next day, you can be sure that you've gone a bit too far.
Concentrations of greater than 10% glycolic acid should only be used while under the care of a dermatologist. Using high concentration products inappropriately can cause serious skin reactions.
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.
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.
In some cases, however, it can have the opposite effect. Especially if you're prone to hyperpigmentation (a common issue for people with medium to dark brown skin tones, for example, as the body already makes extra melanin, which can lead to dark spots), glycolic acid could make the issue worse.
Can I use glycolic acid everyday? Short answer: yes, Glycolic Acid can benefit your skin, but the key is finding the right strength that your skin can tolerate. As dermatologist Dr. Bottiglione explains, irritation or redness may occur initially, but there is no need to worry as permanent scars are uncommon.
It is important to identify the appropriate concentration of glycolic acid for your specific skin concerns. Lower concentrations, typically under 4%-5% like the Facial Enhancement Cream, provide gentle exfoliation and may be used once or twice daily.
- glycolic acid may be used safely at a level of up to 4 % and a pH ≥ 3.8 - lactic acid up to a maximum level of 2.5 % and a pH ≥ 5.0.
While one exfoliation won't completely strip your skin of all of its oil, it will remove most of it, leaving the surface dry. Therefore, exfoliating without applying a good moisturizer is guaranteed to leave the face drier than it was before exfoliation.
The lipid barrier is critical for locking in moisture and keeping harmful aggressors out. Excessive exfoliation breaks down this essential lipid barrier, leaving your skin defenceless and more prone to skin discomfort. This can appear as tightness in your skin, a waxy appearance due to dehydration.
The Risks of Over-Exfoliation
Too much exfoliation can also be harmful. Over-exfoliating can lead to skin irritation, redness, and sensitivity. It can worsen pigmentation issues or even cause new ones. Hence, it's essential to find the right balance in your exfoliation routine, tailored to your skin's needs.
Glycolic acid is easy to use because there are so many ways to incorporate it into your skin care routine. As a rule of thumb, use one glycolic acid product at a time to avoid irritation, and incorporate it into your evening routine, since it makes skin more sensitive to sunlight.
To achieve smoother, healthier, and more radiant skin, start by removing your makeup and then cleanse your face. Also, ensure your skin is properly dried: applying on wet skin will be less effective and less well-tolerated, as the presence of water makes the acid more irritating.
Glycolic acid is a powerful ingredient that can provide numerous benefits for the skin, but it can also cause skin purging, redness, and burning if used improperly. Here are some tips to prevent these side effects when using glycolic acid: It starts with a lower-concentration product and uses it once or twice a week.
Appearance. Acne purging and breakouts can look similar at first glance, with increased red bumps and pimples. However, purging tends to cause uniform congestion, affecting the entire area where you applied the new treatment. Breakouts often appear more sporadic in your usual problem spots.