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.
I would definitely recommend moisturizer after glycolic acid! Just wait about 20 mins before you throw on your moisturizer (the glycolic acid will have done its job by 20 mins so there is no harm in throwing the moisturizer over it).
Studies also show that glycolic acid significantly increases skin hydration. Not only is it a humectant, it also helps skin make substances like mucopolysaccharides, which boost skin's ability to stay hydrated by increasing its natural content of hyaluronic acid (8).
Because Glycolic Acid exfoliates the top layer of the skin, we would recommend avoiding any other products that also promote skin cell turnover. This would include ingredients such as Retinoids and Copper Peptides. Combining multiple resurfacing products may increase the chances of developing skin sensitivities.
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.
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.
Use Soothing Moisturizers
"Things that are anti-inflammatory, hydrating, or that help repair the barrier of your skin are necessary." The best thing you can do for your skin is to cut back on extensive routines and stick to the basics—cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection.
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).
You should expect your skin to have mild peeling and redness for 7-10 days following the peel. Mild redness may last 2-4 weeks. Specific aftercare instructions and products will be provided by your physician at Elevation Dermatology.
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.
Hydrate and moisturise: Use hydrating products like serums or moisturisers after using glycolic acid. These aid in rehydrating and nourishing the skin. Look for products that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or natural oils to help maintain a healthy skin barrier.
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.
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.
It's important to properly moisturise your skin after you apply glycolic acid. As you're effectively removing the top layer of dead skins cells, you could be left with some peeling or flaking (although this is much more prominent after glycolic acid peels).
Use cool compresses to soothe minor irritation. Gently wash your face twice a day for the first day or two after your chemical peel. Use a non-irritating moisturizer to keep your face from drying. You should also avoid over-moisturizing, which will prohibit the damaged skin from flaking properly.
Does damp skin or your water-based skincare products “deactivate” glycolic acid? No. This is a response to @drcharlesmd who has claimed several times that this is the case, and that you're wasting your money if you put glycolic acid on damp skin or in combination with water-based skincare.
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.
Remember, whilst glycolic acid can offer all these benefits, it can also cause side effects such as dryness and irritation. This applies particularly to products with concentrations exceeding 10%, or in individuals with sensitive skin.
Absolutely! In fact, these two ingredients are a skincare dream team. Glycolic acid exfoliates and renews your skin, but it can sometimes cause dryness or irritation. That's where hyaluronic acid comes in—it replenishes moisture and soothes your skin after exfoliation.