Glycolic acid has most often been applied to the skin by adults in lotions and creams containing glycolic acid 10% to 15% once or twice daily for up to 4 months.
Start by leaving it on for two minutes, and once your skin builds up a tolerance, you may begin to increase the time in 30-second increments. If you prefer to use a glycolic acid facial cleanser – which has a lower concentration of the active ingredient – you can use it once a week after you've built up a tolerance.
Now, the important thing to remember is, glycolic acid comes in various concentrations. 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.
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.
The Ordinary's glycolic acid toner is good for 12 months after opening (it should say on the bottle as well as the box), and does the fizzy thing even when its new! It should be good unless it changes colour/smell.
Does glycolic acid remove dark spots? Glycolic acid can not permanently remove dark spots or scars, but it can help fade dark patches of skin left by acne or sun damage. Because glycolic acid causes your skin to shed dead skin cells, it helps smooth and brighten the skin.
Target age group
The skin is very soft and fragile when you are young, so it's better not to use such skin products so early. The right age to begin using these glycolic acid-based skin products is in the late or mid-20s. You can even start using them after the age of 30. It's never too late.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Underarm deodorants work by either inhibiting the growth of these bacteria, or by halting perspiration altogether. Acids such as glycolic and salicylic work as effective natural deodorants. Their low pH makes it impossible for odor-causing bacteria to survive on your skin, leaving you feeling fresh and confident.
You don't necessarily have to skip glycolic acid just because you tend to get dark spots, but to be safe and minimize irritation, you should stick with low concentrations (think 5 to 10%), according to Dr. Ciraldo. And again, using it just one or two times a week can also keep skin calmer, Dr. Marcus adds.
Dr Zamani says: “Overusing glycolic acid can leave the skin red, dry and more sensitive to the sun. This can cause premature ageing, thinning of the skin and heightened risk of pigmentation.”
Clogged pores usually form because of dead skin cells and other particles lingering in pores, creating plugs that could eventually turn into active breakouts or may remain as blackheads. To clear blackheads, glycolic acid can take 3-4 weeks to take effect for clearer, congestion-free skin.
One study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that the use of a 10% glycolic acid solution resulted in a significant reduction in pore size after just four weeks of use.
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.
Glycolic Acid, especially in high-strength solutions, can irritate the skin. If you have sensitive skin, a low-strength glycolic acid treatment can be added to your skincare routine. However, you should introduce them gradually, utilizing them just once or twice a week.
It is also useful in treatments for acne, hyperpigmentation, and the visible signs of aging. 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.
Sensitive skin: Glycolic acid can cause skin irritation and make certain skin conditions worse. Use cautiously in people with sensitive skin.
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.
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.
It's never 'too late' to start investing in your skincare. Of course, prevention is better than cure – so the earlier you start taking time to nourish and take care of your skin the better.
Long-Term Anti-Aging Effects:
A long-term study published in Dermatologic Surgery (2003) compared the effects of glycolic acid and retinoids. It concluded that while both improved skin texture and tone, retinoids had a more pronounced effect on reducing wrinkles and promoting collagen production over time.