Is 70% glycolic acid too strong?

Author: Macy Collins IV  |  Last update: Thursday, May 29, 2025

The higher concentration acids (70%) created more tissue damage than the lower concentration (50%) when comparing solutions with free acid. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that chemical peeling with a 70% free glycolic acid creates more tissue damage than a free glycolic acid.

Can I use 70% glycolic acid?

Answer: Start slow Glycolic acid can come in any concentration from 0 up to a maximum 70%. There are many over the counter products you can start off with as a first time user. Everyone has a different sensitivity, so it is best to start low to be safe and work your way up.

Is 7 percent glycolic acid effective?

Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner is a water-based, exfoliating toner formulated with 7% glycolic acid, a proven alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that effectively exfoliates the skin. It helps to remove dead skin cells, revealing a smoother, more even texture.

What percentage of glycolic acid is most effective?

Glycolic acid exfoliants

Concentration matters, too; amounts between 5 and 10 percent of glycolic acid are ideal (though there are more intense, rinse-off peels with higher concentrations of AHAs you can use at home).

Is 70 glycolic acid too strong?

High or unregulated concentrations of glycolic acid (anything above 70%) would be considered too high even for a peel that only stays on your skin for a few minutes.

Why I No Longer Use GLYCOLIC ACID - Glycolic Acid Explored

What not 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.

How long does it take for 7% glycolic acid to work?

Glycolic Acid for Blackheads

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.

Is glycolic acid too harsh for the face?

Side Effects of Glycolic Acid

People with sensitive, dry skin may have better results with lactic acid, a gentler AHA. 2 Since glycolic acid can be irritating, Vasile recommends following up with a moisturizer to help rehydrate the skin barrier.

How to dilute glycolic acid 70%?

HOW TO DILUTE GLYCOLIC ACID? Glycolic acid is diluted using distilled water. Always add the acid to the water, not the other way around. So to get 100 g of 50% solution you will need 71.429 g of 70% glycolic acid and 28.57 g of water.

Do you moisturize after glycolic acid?

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.

How many layers of skin does glycolic acid remove?

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.

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.

What is the maximum glycolic acid?

The European Union Scientific Committee on Cosmetic Products and Non-Food Products Intended for Consumers (SCCNFP), stated that glycolic acid may be used safely at levels up to 4% and pH ≥ 3.8; it was also recommended that contact with eyes be avoided and that UV protection be used when using cosmetic products ...

What is the pH of glycolic acid 70?

Abstract. Background: Seventy percent glycolic acid solutions are being commonly used as superficial chemical peeling agents. The pH of these solutions ranges from 0.08 to 2.75.

How often to use glycolic acid 70%?

Start slowly with glycolic acid to avoid over-exfoliation. For beginners, once or twice a week is sufficient. As your skin builds tolerance, you can increase it to three times a week. For seasoned users, daily use might be beneficial, but it's important to monitor your skin's reaction.

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.

What happens if you leave glycolic acid on too long?

(1) Because glycolic acid has no end point, allowing the acid to travel deeper than intended if left on the skin too long, it requires neutralization to end the peeling process. Due to its small molecular size, glycolic acid also has the ability to absorb quickly and can cause the skin to peel unevenly.

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.

Which is better retinol or glycolic acid?

Clinically speaking, retinol lacks the penetrative strength of Retin-A and glycolic acid, as it remains inactive and fails to reach beyond the superficial layer of the skin. Conversely, glycolic acid has the ability to deeply penetrate the skin, breaking down the "glue" that holds together dead and dull skin cells.

What is the perfect pair for 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.

Do I put 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.

Can I leave glycolic acid toner on overnight?

Usage of the glycolic acid toner 👇🏻(unsponsored reel) ✅ Make sure your skin barrier is healthy before applying this product otherwise your face might have burning sensation as soon as you apply it (can be applied by all skin types but sensitive skin avoid it) ✅Application of glycolic acid should be only at NIGHT TIME.

When should I stop using glycolic acid?

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. The creams with a concentration above 15% may need to be kept only for a few minutes and then wiped off.

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