How many layers of skin does glycolic acid remove?

Author: Noemy Pouros DDS  |  Last update: Sunday, September 7, 2025

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.

Does glycolic acid remove layers of skin?

What is a glycolic acid peel? Glycolic acid peels are a type of superficial peel. Superficial peels cause the top layers of damaged skin to peel away over 7-10 days. Unlike medium or deep chemical peels, they will not affect the underlying layers of tissue.

How deep does glycolic acid penetrate?

Depth of the glycolic acid peel depends on the concentration of the acid used, the number of coats applied, and the time for which it is applied. Hence, it can be used as a very superficial peel, or even a medium depth peel.

How do you know glycolic acid is working?

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.

Can you overdo glycolic acid?

Overuse can lead to skin irritation, redness, peeling, burning, stinging, and breakouts. It's crucial to listen to your skin and adjust usage accordingly, experimenting carefully without overdoing it. I am not affiliated with or sponsored by any skincare company; all content is created independently.

GLYCOLIC ACID Hacks - How To Use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

Can I use 7% glycolic acid every day?

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.

What are the bad side effects of glycolic acid?

Common side effects reported after the use of glycolic acid peels include reddening; a stinging sensation or sensation of pulling of facial skin; mild burning; and temporary post-inflammatory dark spots.

Do you apply glycolic acid on wet or dry skin?

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 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.

How long does it take for glycolic acid to unclog pores?

To clear blackheads, glycolic acid can take 3-4 weeks to take effect for clearer, congestion-free skin. This is because it takes time and repeated use for glycolic acid to break down pore-blocking dead skin cells and debris for clearer skin that doesn't have any congestion.

What to layer over glycolic acid?

Layering Order: Apply glycolic acid first to exfoliate and prepare the skin. Follow up with hyaluronic acid to hydrate and replenish moisture. This sequence ensures that the exfoliation process does not strip the skin of hydration, and the hydrating benefits of hyaluronic acid can penetrate more effectively.

Does glycolic acid increase pore size?

"Glycolic acid is one of the best options for minimizing pores. It helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can lead to a reduction in their size. Plus, it can help to improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin." - Dr. David Lortscher, a board-certified dermatologist.

Does glycolic acid destroy skin barrier?

“Using glycolic acid too frequently or in high concentrations can lead to over-exfoliation and strip the skin of its natural oils, damaging the skin barrier and leading to irritation, sensitivity, dryness, redness, flakiness, and breakouts,” says Holmes.

How deep does glycolic acid go?

Deep: Involves the use of 55 to 70% glycolic acid that is applied for three to fifteen minutes. A deep peel reaches the reticular dermis, which sits below the papillary dermis.

Does skin purge after glycolic acid?

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.

Does glycolic tighten skin?

But glycolic acid has also been proven to stimulate the production of new collagen, making your skin look firmer. An overnight peel that can help your skin remain supple and firm is Pure Fiji's Glycolic Overnight Renewal Peel with Mandelic and Niacinamide.

What is bad to 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.

What compliments glycolic acid?

Apply vitamin C in the morning and glycolic acid at night. 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.

Why does glycolic acid stop body 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.

Should you moisturize right after glycolic acid?

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 are the side effects of glycolic acid?

Common side effects of Glycolic Acid include dry skin, erythema (skin redness), burning sensation, itching, skin irritation, and skin rash. Glycolic Acid can make the skin more sensitive in the sunlight, hence always use sunscreen and protective clothing before you step outdoors.

Can I leave glycolic acid on my face overnight?

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.

Can glycolic acid cause more wrinkles?

Reality: Glycolic acid can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but you may need a stronger concentration of glycolic such as the Ultra Anti-Aging Cream to be effective for deep wrinkles. Myth 4: Glycolic acid can cause sun sensitivity.

What does glycolic acid do to hair?

It Can Reduce Breakage

Many people experience hair breakage, making it difficult to grow the hair thick and long. Glycolic acid can nourish and hydrate the hair, which, in turn, prevents tangling, making it easier to style the hair without it breaking off.

Who should avoid 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.

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