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.
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.
While glycolic acid can be used in the morning, it makes your skin more sensitive to UV rays. This happens because the exfoliation process removes dead skin cells, exposing fresher, more delicate skin underneath. 🛡️ Key Rules for Morning Use: 🌞 Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning.
If no symptoms occur, apply it to the face. Start slowly: It is best to start with a low strength of glycolic acid, using it infrequently at first. If the skin feels smoother and shows no signs of an adverse reaction, a person can slowly increase their use following the instructions on the product label.
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.
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.
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.
As part of the Treat step, the Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner would be applied after cleansing to dry skin. We would recommend using a gentle cleanser without any strong actives such as our Glucoside Foaming Cleanser.
Yes, Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Stick is suitable for up to 1x daily use on the bikini line and underarm areas. If using on the underarms, apply 10-15 minutes before using deodorant/anti-perspirant.
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.
“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.
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.
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.
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.
Sleep Glycolic should be used 2-3 times a week. After cleansing in the evening, smooth a pea-sized amount of Sleep Glycolic onto the face, neck and décolletage, avoiding the eye area. Follow with other serums and always use a night moisturizer, leaving on overnight.
Yes, you can! With strategic use, the combined benefits of glycolic acid and retinol can help you attain a healthier, radiant complexion. Need help with your skincare routine? Take help from the L'Oréal Paris Skin Genius tool to get a customized skincare routine and take care of your skin like a pro.
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.
In intimate areas, the skin may become rough due to factors like shaving, friction, or hormonal changes. Glycolic acid's exfoliating properties can help improve texture and smoothness. Low concentrations, typically around 5-10%, are advised for use in sensitive areas to minimize the risk of irritation.
Glycolic acid is safe for all skin types and has a long history of benefiting skin (4). However, glycolic acid is best suited for those with dry-to-normal skin with signs of aging, uneven tone and those experiencing stubborn signs of environmental damage. It's also great for those with oily or breakout-prone skin (5).
Like any skincare product, toner works best when it's used correctly. Below is a step-by-step walkthrough to help you get the best results: When to use toner: Apply toner after you finish cleansing your face. Applying it while your skin is still wet will allow the product to penetrate the surface better.
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.
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.
The steps in the step-by-step tutorial on how to add glycolic acid to your regimen are: start with a low concentration, choose the best product, carry out a patch test, start with a low frequency, clean your face, apply glycolic acid, wait and observe, moisturise and protect, and gradually increase usage.
The efficacy of glycolic acid largely depends on its concentration in skincare products. Lower concentrations are suitable for everyday use, while higher concentrations should be used less frequently. Concentration Levels: 2-5%: Mild exfoliation; suitable for daily use.