Should I Moisturise After Glycolic Acid? We always recommend using an intensive moisturiser after a Glycolic Acid product, as this AHA can be drying to your complexion. This is particularly important if you already have dry skin or are prone to sensitivity.
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.
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.
As part of the Treat step, the Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner would be applied after cleansing to dry skin. We would recommend using a gentle cleanser without any strong actives such as our Glucoside Foaming Cleanser.
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.
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.
Use glycolic acid products exclusively at night. This is important as glycolic acid, and all other AHAs increase the skin's sensitivity to UV radiation. To safeguard the freshly exfoliated skin, apply at bedtime and wear sunscreen in the morning.
Glycolic acid is safe for all skin types and has a long history of benefiting skin (4). However, glycolic acid is best suited for those with dry-to-normal skin with signs of aging, uneven tone and those experiencing stubborn signs of environmental damage. It's also great for those with oily or breakout-prone skin (5).
Yes, it's safe to use a moisturizer after applying glycolic or lactic acids, retinoids, or salicylic acids.
If you're wondering how to use a glycolic acid toner, simply start by washing your face at night with a gentle cleanser. Next, apply a glycolic acid toner with a toning pad. Then, follow up with your favourite serum and moisturizer.
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 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.
Although petroleum jelly products are non-comedogenic, they can trap bacteria and dead skin cells worsening acne. Never slug when using active ingredients such at retinoids, salicylic, glycolic or lactic acids. (Save those for nights when you aren't slugging).
Any moisturizer that doesn't contain actives like retinol, AHAs, or BHAs should be fine. And if you're new to glycolic acid, be sure to introduce it slowly by starting with just twice a week.
After using glycolic acid, it's best to avoid applying other active products, such as serums with potent ingredients, immediately afterward. Allow the glycolic acid to work on its own before introducing other active products to prevent potential irritation or skin sensitivity.
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.
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.
Hyaluronic Acid is one of the best hydrating ingredients, as it can hold up to 1,000 times its own mass in hydration. Therefore, if you're using Glycolic Acid, we highly recommend following up with a Hyaluronic Acid treatment. This will help undo the drying side effects and restore balance within the skin.
Sleep Glycolic should be used 2-3 times a week. After cleansing in the evening, smooth a pea-sized amount of Sleep Glycolic onto the face, neck and décolletage, avoiding the eye area. Follow with other serums and always use a night moisturizer, leaving on overnight.
Typically, you can expect to see noticeable results from glycolic acid in a few weeks to a couple of months. But this timeline is not set in stone and can vary based on factors such as the severity of the hyperpigmentation, the concentration of glycolic acid used, and how frequently you apply it.
Layering order: To maximise the benefits of your skincare products while minimising any potential interactions, layer them in the correct order. Apply glycolic acid products after cleansing and toning but before thicker products such as moisturisers or oils.
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.