How do you know glycolic acid is working?

Author: Thea Johns  |  Last update: Thursday, April 3, 2025

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.

How long does it take to see results from glycolic acid?

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.

How to know if glycolic acid is not working?

Here's Why. The best way to tell if you're getting the full benefits of glycolic acid is by trying it on your skin. If you FEEL The Trustworthy Tingle, you know it's working as it should.

What to expect when you start using glycolic acid?

Certain acids like glycolic are know to dry skin and may cause some redness when applied for the first time. This is common and in most cases goes away after a couple days.

How many layers of skin does glycolic acid remove?

The American Society for Dermatologic Study has confirmed that glycolic acid can be applied to the skin at two levels. In low or "superficial" amounts, this alpha-hydroxy acid penetrates only the outer layer of skin to gently exfoliate it and reveal the new, less damaged skin underneath.

How To Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

How long will my skin purge from glycolic acid?

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.

Should I apply glycolic acid all over my face?

Yes. Because it helps exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells and bacteria that can clog pores, glycolic acid can help reduce acne and improve texture from scarring. It can also help prepare skin for acne medication, enabling it to penetrate better.

Should I 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.

What does glycolic acid do to armpits?

By penetrating the pore, chemical exfoliants such as glycolic acid are able to smooth texture and clear up any ingrown hairs or razor burn on your underarms. It's also a useful way to unclog congested sweat glands that can come from using antiperspirant deodorants.

Is it bad to leave glycolic acid 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.

How can I make glycolic acid more effective?

Start slowly: If you have never used glycolic acid before, start with a low concentration product like the Facial Enhancement Cream and use it only once or twice a week. Gradually increase the frequency as your skin becomes more tolerant. Apply to clean skin: Glycolic acid is more effective when applied to clean skin.

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.

What neutralizes glycolic acid?

Neutralisation is required to terminate the action of gly- colic acid peels and can be achieved using water, sodium bicarbonate, sodium hydroxide or ammonium salt solu- tions.

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.

How do I know if my glycolic acid toner 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.

How long does 7% glycolic acid take to work?

After about a month, you'll notice that you have fewer blemishes, as the Glycolic Acid works to keep your pores clean. Two months in, you'll notice your skin tone has become more even and is less prone to discolouration.

Does glycolic acid get rid of odor?

"Glycolic acid is thought to help reduce body odor by reducing the pH of the skin and making it harder for the odor-causing bacteria to survive," Garshick says.

How to whiten the underarm in 3 days?

Lemon Juice: Lemon juice contains natural bleaching agents like citric acid that can help lighten underarm skin. Apply it for 10-15 minutes and rinse thoroughly. Potato: Potato slices or potato juice applied to the underarms can help reduce pigmentation due to its natural bleaching properties.

How do you get rid of armpit odor permanently?

The following suggestions may help:
  1. Bathe daily. Regular bathing, especially with an antibacterial soap, reduces the growth of bacteria on your skin.
  2. Choose clothing to suit your activity. For daily wear, choose natural fabrics, such as cotton, wool and silk. ...
  3. Try relaxation techniques. ...
  4. Change your diet.

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. However, alternating them between your morning and evening skincare routine means that you can enjoy the benefits without the risk of damaging your skin.

Is glycolic acid better on wet or dry skin?

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.

Does glycolic acid remove dark spots?

Glycolic acid is highly effective in reducing dark spots and treating hyperpigmentation. It works by promoting the shedding of pigmented cells and encouraging the growth of new, evenly pigmented skin cells. This process helps to lighten dark spots and improve the uniformity of the skin's tone.

Is it better to use glycolic acid at night or morning?

As for whether you should apply glycolic acid morning or night, we recommend applying it as part of your evening skincare routine. Glycolic acid can cause “photosensitivity,” which means it makes your skin more sensitive to the sun's UV rays, upping your chances of a sunburn or skin damage.

What happens if you use too much glycolic acid?

Glycolic acid can cause irritation and redness if you have sensitive skin or overuse the product. Since glycolic acid can make your skin sensitive to the sun, remember to wear sunscreen and consider using glycolic acid at night.

Can you use glycolic acid under eyes?

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

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