Gently massage the product into your skin, focusing on any areas of concern. Allow the product to absorb for a few minutes before applying any other skincare products or deodorants. Use glycolic acid on your underarms no more than once or twice a week to avoid over-exfoliation.
Glycolic Acid is a popular ingredient used to reduce pigmentation, it doesn't cause it. Unless you are using it and exposing your underarms to sun, it should be OK. Can't speak on sensitivity, that depends on skin but wouldn't advice using it more than 2-3 times a week.
Darker skin tones can develop hyperpigmentation when irritated. So if you use glycolic acid too frequently, and end up damaging the skin, then it can possibly lead to darkening instead of lightening. The skin on the underarms is already delicate so it's better to be cautious and use the acid maximum twice a week.
A trend that has been doing the rounds on TikTok suggests ditching your deodorant in place of glycolic acid, a type of chemical exfoliant. Many users claim that this hygiene hack, which specifically calls for the Glycolic Acid Toning Solution from The Ordinary, can help keep body odor at bay.
You can wear deodorant after using glycolic acid. It might go on funny. Use men's deodorant. Don't use any antiperspirant. Do a patch test to see how your skin reacts. Best results are achieved when glycolic acid is used on its own.
"But since it's acid with a lower pH than your skin, it might help ward off the bacteria in the armpit area that causes you to smell." So if you're looking to reduce body odor in your underarm area, glycolic acid could do the trick—but if sweat is also an issue, you'll still need an antiperspirant.
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.
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.
Apocrine glands, located in areas like the armpits and groin, secrete a thicker fluid that, when broken down by bacteria on the skin, can produce a strong odour. One of the most common causes of smelly armpits in the breakdown of this sweat by bacteria.
Typically, users can start seeing improvements in their skin texture and appearance within two to four weeks of consistent use. This makes it a go-to choice for those looking to enhance their skincare routine and see quick results. The effectiveness of glycolic acid depends on several factors.
"The maximum concentration of glycolic acid that can be used on this area is eight to 10%, but even that can be irritating, so the lower the concentration, the better," Garshick says. And it should be used sparingly, only one to two times per week.
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.
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.
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.
Diabetes - Fruity smell. Kidney disease - Bleach-like smell. Infectious diseases - Varies with location and infection. Overactive thyroid - Sour smell.
Does shaving your armpits reduce body odor? Yes, shaving can help reduce body odor. Hair provides a breeding ground for bacteria, which break down sweat and produce odor. Removing hair can decrease this bacterial activity.
Frequency: Exfoliate your armpits 1-2 times a week. Do not over-exfoliate, which can irritate. Technique: Apply exfoliant on armpits in the shower; massage in gentle, soft circular motion for 1-2 minutes. Rinse warm.
Lemon for your underarms
And if you've tried a lemon underarm DIY for lightening armpits, you're not alone. Lemon is often presented as a natural remedy. We want you to know that using lemon juice to lighten armpits is a myth. It has never been proven to work, and it can actually be a dangerous practice!
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.
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.
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.