Is 10% glycolic acid too much?

Author: Tyreek Greenfelder III  |  Last update: Saturday, August 30, 2025

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.

Is 10% glycolic acid strong?

Moderate to intense concentrations

A free glycolic acid concentration between 4% and 8% is considered mid-level, where continued use helps revamp skin texture and tone. Once your skin gets used to it, you can try a free glycolic acid concentration between 8% and 10%.

Can I use glycolic acid 10% everyday?

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.

What does 10% pure glycolic acid do for skin?

Validated in partnership with an external panel of dermatologists, 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Serum absorbs quickly to visibly even skin tone and reduce wrinkles, fine lines & dark spots.

What is the ideal percentage of glycolic acid?

The ideal percentage of glycolic acid for at-home use would be 8% to 25% percent, with 25% being what I call the “high normal.” With higher concentrations, formulations matter! It is important to note that home use AHA creams, lotions and serums are buffered, compared to AHA peels with lower pH.

THE ORDINARY GLYCOLIC ACID | LACTIC ACID 10% | SALICYLIC ACID REVIEW

Is 10% AHA too much?

Research has shown that AHA exfoliants containing glycolic acid or lactic acid in concentrations between 5% and 10% and with a pH between 3 and 4 are ideal for optimal, youth-reviving, non-irritating exfoliation. Higher concentrations are best used occasionally and in the form of rinse-off exfoliants.

What percentage of glycolic acid do dermatologists use?

Glycolic acid is the alpha-hydroxy acid used most commonly by dermatologists for chemical peeling. It is used in concentrations from 20%–70% in all skin types. It should be used in lower concentrations initially, and then the strength of the peel should be gradually increased in subsequent sessions.

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.

How long does 10% glycolic acid take to work?

After about a month, you should notice clearer skin as glycolic acid works to keep skin clean and decongested. Two months in, you should see that dark spots and pigmentation is reduced as the regular glycolic acid application is melting away old, dead skin cells and increasing cell turnover.

Is glycolic acid better on wet or dry skin?

To achieve smoother, healthier, and more radiant skin, start by removing your makeup and then cleanse your face. Also, ensure your skin is properly dried: applying on wet skin will be less effective and less well-tolerated, as the presence of water makes the acid more irritating.

Can you overdo glycolic acid?

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.

Can I apply moisturizer after glycolic acid?

Should I Moisturise After Glycolic Acid? We always recommend using an intensive moisturiser after a Glycolic Acid product, as this AHA can be drying to your complexion. This is particularly important if you already have dry skin or are prone to sensitivity.

What not to use 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.

Why is my skin getting darker after using glycolic acid?

“Those with darker skin tones, need to be cautious with glycolic acid,” warns Dr Buldeo. “It can cause a paradoxical darkening of the skin by stimulating melanocytes,” These are the melanin-producing cells in your skin's deepest layer so this can lead to hyperpigmentation in black skin.

How do you use glycolic acid 10% on your face?

Use not more than a pea-sized amount for the entire face. Excessive irritability can result from using too much glycolic acid product. Exfoliate once or twice per week and not every day. Over-exfoliation can hasten to age and cause irritability, redness, pimples, dryness and even acne.

How do you know if glycolic acid is too strong?

Signs you're not tolerating glycolic ...
  1. Eye area looks crinkled, dry, puckered, or wrinkled making your eye area look older; this is a temporary side-effect. ...
  2. Red and blotchy, sensitive to other cosmetic products, or stings when you perspire.
  3. Shedding dead skin at the rate you consider undesirable.

Is 10% glycolic acid too high?

Concentrations of greater than 10% glycolic acid should only be used while under the care of a dermatologist. Using high concentration products inappropriately can cause serious skin reactions.

How do I know if 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.

What is the best percentage of glycolic acid to use?

Concentrations between 5-10% of glycolic acid are considered most effective for exfoliation on a regular basis. There are also more intense, rinse-off glycolic acid peels featuring higher concentrations of AHAs, which you can use at home on an occasional basis, about once a week, to improve the look of deeper wrinkles.

Is it better to use glycolic acid at night or morning?

Glycolic acid is easy to use because there are so many ways to incorporate it into your skin care routine. As a rule of thumb, use one glycolic acid product at a time to avoid irritation, and incorporate it into your evening routine, since it makes skin more sensitive to sunlight.

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.

What is the effect of glycolic acid 10%?

Boosts cell renewal and promotes the elimination of dead cells for smooth, radiant skin. Thanks to its keratolytic action, the glycolic acid improves skin texture and smooths the skin's micro-relief. Stimulates production of the collagen that is naturally present in the skin to visibly smooth wrinkles and fine lines.

What happens if you use too much 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.

Does glycolic acid remove dark spots permanently?

Glycolic acid can actually interrupt the way your skin makes melanin. Especially in spots where it's making too much. Over time, as you keep using glycolic acid regularly, it helps hyperpigmentation and melasma to fade. This means that over time, your skin tone looks much more even.

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