Generally, you should wait at least 30 minutes between applying an AHA and using a moisturiser. Give your skin time to absorb the AHA and let it do its magic before layering on additional products. Using an AHA and moisturiser simultaneously will cancel their benefits (and vice versa).
You don't need to wait 30 minutes after applying AHA or BHA products before applying moisturizer. These products are buffered & will not be impacted by your moisturizer.
How long does purging skin last? It generally lasts around 4 weeks (an average skin cycle length) but it can last up to 8 weeks. If you're still breaking out more than usual after this period of time, consider what else you're using in your routine, as it may not be purging.
Things like skin-peeling, redness and increased sensitivity, are common occurences if you've been using acids too frequently or if you've layered multiple ingredients together.
Rule: After applying an AHA or BHA product, wait for 30 minutes to allow your skin's pH to return to normal, and then apply the retinol product or L-ascorbic acid (also known as vitamin C).
Zeichner. You may consider using AHA in the morning and retinol at night, but either way, it's crucial to use sunscreen if you're using either product, as they can otherwise cause serious sun damage.
Here, glycolic acid should be used first. You can use it in the form of an exfoliator, serum or even a moisturiser. Let it penetrate in your skin for 30 minutes and then use a product that has niacinamide.
Generally, you should wait at least 30 minutes between applying an AHA and using a moisturiser. Give your skin time to absorb the AHA and let it do its magic before layering on additional products.
As your over-exfoliation worsens, your skin can become dry and flaky. Dry skin builds up dead skin cells faster, so you're more likely to see a layer of dead skin over the surface of your skin. This layer of dead skin can cause dry skin to look very dull. You may also see more redness than usual with dry skin.
How long does purging last? 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.
Alpha hydroxy acids begin to work almost immediately when formulated in leave-on formats (toners, liquid exfoliants) to reveal brighter, glowy skin. It takes a bit longer, about 2-4 months, to visibly recognize AHA-related anti-aging benefits, like a decrease in appearance of fine lines and wrinkles (4).
Do: Use it overnight. My AHAs work the night shift to smooth your skin: zero effort required. Apply my AHA lotion all over, slip into your PJs, and dream of me. Sleep tight and wake up to your best skin yet.
AHA and BHA acids are ingredients that have an exfoliating effect, so it is important that the skin is properly moisturized after using them to avoid irritation and dryness. It is recommended to use products containing hyaluronic acid, aloe or bisabolol, ceramides or squalane.
How long does skin purging last? “It can last from four days to six weeks, but on average, you can expect it to occur for around two weeks.”
Flaky skin can be made worse by not applying a moisturizing product after exfoliating. If you only remove the dead skin without protecting the new skin underneath, it can lead to rough skin and uneven texture. Some people even experience peeling skin because the texture is so dry and rough.
Using too many exfoliating acid-based products, or one product that is simply too potent, can damage the stratum corneum – the outermost layer of your skin, also known as the skin barrier.
Irregular or improper cleansing can prolong the presence of dead skin cells by leaving oils and cosmetics on the skin. Exfoliating only needs to be done either once or twice a week, not daily.
Stop Exfoliating Altogether
Give your skin a rest from physical and chemical exfoliation for a few days to a couple of weeks and assess your skin's condition. The break will also allow your skin to recover and replenish itself. Once healed, you can slowly reintroduce exfoliation.
Choose products specifically tailored for use under the eyes—check labels to make sure there's no warning against using the product near the eyes. Only exfoliate the skin under the eyes and on the corners where crow's feet form, not the eyelids or directly under the lash line.
The U.S. FDA has recommended exercising caution in relation to adverse reactions such as redness, swelling, burning, and pruritus due to use of AHA-containing products [44]. Similarly, UV-induced phototoxicity has been associated with AHA concentrations.
You see, while some experts insist you should leave anywhere between 30 seconds and 15 minutes between layers, others argue it's far more important to just get the product on. “If you don't have the time, it won't harm the skin by applying products directly after each other.
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.
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.
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.