How often should you use glycolic night serum?

Author: Mr. Alexie Rolfson MD  |  Last update: Sunday, August 31, 2025

Every formula is different, so there's not a one-size-fits-all answer regarding how often you should apply glycolic acid. Some products have ultra-strong concentrations you can use once every week or every other week. Other glycolic acid skincare products are gentler, and can be used as part of your daily routine.

Is it okay to use glycolic acid serum every day?

For many people, using glycolic acid 2-3 times a week is sufficient to achieve benefits without significant side effects. If you want to use it daily, consider starting with a lower concentration and gradually increasing usage as your skin builds tolerance.

Can I use drunk elephant glycolic night serum every night?

Start slowly by using every other night. Use only as directed. Avoid contact with eyes. Discontinue use immediately if irritation occurs and consult a physician.

Can you use 7% glycolic acid every night?

Glycolic acid is an active exfoliant, it is highly advised to apply it once or twice a week during night time.

How do you use glycolic acid serum at night?

Use a glycolic peel or mask once a week at night, and always make sure to read the directions thoroughly, as each product can differ. Usually, you'll apply a glycolic mask or peel after cleansing and before the other steps in your routine to allow the rest of your products to absorb better.

How to Add Glycolic Acid to Your Skincare Routine | #SKINCARE

How often to use Glycolic night Serum?

Every formula is different, so there's not a one-size-fits-all answer regarding how often you should apply glycolic acid. Some products have ultra-strong concentrations you can use once every week or every other week. Other glycolic acid skincare products are gentler, and can be used as part of your daily routine.

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.

Can I leave 10% glycolic acid on 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.

What moisturizer to use after glycolic acid?

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.

Can I mix glycolic acid with niacinamide?

If you've ever questioned, “Can I use niacinamide with glycolic acid in my skincare regimen,” don't worry—they most definitely can. Both of these can be used in a single skincare routine. You have to choose the right products from the top brands and follow a healthy skin routine.

How often should you use night serum?

For a face serum to show its effectiveness on your skin, it is important to apply a face serum daily on your skin for it to boost the effectiveness of your skincare routine by targeting concerns more directly than traditional creams can.

What does Glycolic night serum do?

Resurfaces dull, congested skin, clearing and minimizing the look of pores. Delivers an effective level of chemical exfoliation. Targets the appearance of breakouts and blemishes and minimizes excess oiliness. Refines uneven texture, fine lines, and wrinkles, smoothing skin.

How long can I leave glycolic acid serum on my face?

If you do not face any skin reaction or irritation and want quick results, you can use 10% glycolic acid products 5 days a week. You can leave it on your face overnight and let it absorb into your skin. Wash it out the next day with water.

What happens if you use too much glycolic acid on face?

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.

How many times a week should I use glycolic?

Typically, experts recommend using glycolic acid 2-3 times a week for maintenance. Then, adjust as needed based on skin response. Avoiding other strong exfoliants like retinoids or other acids on the same night can help prevent over-exfoliation.

What are the side effects of glycolic acid serum?

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.

How many minutes should I wait to apply moisturizer after glycolic acid?

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.

What pairs well with glycolic acid?

If your skin tolerates retinol well, combining it with glycolic acid is a good idea given their different actions. A study has shown that the combination of glycolic acid and retinol proves to be effective in treating acne and brown acne scars.

What should you avoid after glycolic acid?

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.

Can I use glycolic acid 7% every night?

Though gentle enough for everyday use, we generally recommend to exfoliate once or twice a week. Over-exfoliating can damage the skin barrier, which can lead to redness, irritation, or breakouts.

Can I combine vitamin C and glycolic acid?

Everything you need to know about adding this dynamic duo to prevent premature aging and brighten skin. We won't keep you in suspense: YES, you can use vitamin C and glycolic acid together in your skincare routine.

What cancels out glycolic acid?

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.

How long should I wait to apply hyaluronic acid after glycolic acid?

Glycolic Acid: Follow with your glycolic acid treatment. Allow it to absorb for a good 5-10 minutes. Hyaluronic Acid: Apply hyaluronic acid serum next to flood your skin with moisture.

Can I use glycolic with niacinamide?

As glycolic acid has a low molecular weight, it can irritate your skin. Those with sensitive skin might initially experience dry, flaky skin and mild redness. But when you layer it with niacinamide, it can lessen these possible side effects by strengthening your skin's barrier.

Previous article
Why is my blonde hair so yellow?
Next article
Does magnesium help under-eye bags?