What compliments glycolic acid?

Author: Mr. Ian Nicolas Jr.  |  Last update: Friday, October 10, 2025

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.

What works well with glycolic acid?

Glycolic acid works decently with ceramides niacinmide and of course hyaluronic acid for starters you can gradually add other steps to your routine.

What to 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.

What serum works best with glycolic acid?

Best Glycolic Acid Serums
  • Dr. ...
  • Minimalist 10% AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum.
  • L'Oreal Paris Glycolic Bright Face Serum.
  • Himalaya Dark Spot Clearing Turmeric Serum.
  • Dot & Key Watermelon 10% Glycolic Serum.
  • Rejusure 5% Glycolic Acid Facial Serum.
  • Lakme Glycolic Illuminate Face Serum.
  • Dermtribe 10% Glycolic Acid Face Serum.

What can I put on my skin 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.

Reviewing Glycolic Acid Skincare Hacks | Doctorly Explains

Can I use niacinamide with glycolic acid?

In order to answer how often you can combine glycolic acid and niacinamide, you'll need to pay close attention to how your skin reacts. The ingredients can be used together up to once or twice daily, as long as you don't experience any irritation.

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.

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.

Can I use vitamin C and glycolic acid together?

CAN YOU USE BOTH GLYCOLIC ACID AND VITAMIN C? While both glycolic acid and vitamin C are skincare superstars, using them together requires a bit of caution, and it's generally not recommended to use them at the same time. If you're not sure about your routine, it's best to avoid using them in unison.

Is hyaluronic acid OK with glycolic acid?

Absolutely! In fact, these two ingredients are a skincare dream team. Glycolic acid exfoliates and renews your skin, but it can sometimes cause dryness or irritation. That's where hyaluronic acid comes in—it replenishes moisture and soothes your skin after exfoliation.

What does glycolic acid clash with?

Combining glycolic acid with retinol can be tricky and should be approached with caution. Both ingredients are potent and can cause irritation, dryness, and sensitivity when used together. Here are some key points to consider: Alternate Usage: Instead of layering glycolic acid and retinol, use them on different nights.

Which serums are not to use together?

PRODUCT COMBINATIONS THAT DON'T WORK TOGETHER
  • RETINOL SERUM + VITAMIN C. ...
  • RETINOL SERUM + AHAS/BHAS. ...
  • AHAS/BHAS + VITAMIN C. ...
  • NIACINAMIDE SERUM + VITAMIN C. ...
  • TRANEXAMIC ACID. ...
  • SALICYLIC ACID SCALP TREATMENT + GLYCOLIC ACID SCALP TREATMENT. ...
  • PRESCRIBED/OTHER ACTIVES TREATMENTS. ...
  • HYALURONIC ACID SERUM + RETINOL/AHAs/BHAs.

What cannot mix with glycolic acid?

Vitamin C and Niacinamide: While newer formulations are often compatible, older forms of these ingredients can neutralize each other when combined. AHAs/BHAs and Retinol: Combining exfoliating acids (like glycolic acid or salicylic acid) with retinol can lead to excessive dryness and irritation.

Can I mix retinol and glycolic acid?

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.

How do you use glycolic acid for best results?

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.

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.

What to use after glycolic acid?

Hydrate and moisturise: Use hydrating products like serums or moisturisers after using glycolic acid. These aid in rehydrating and nourishing the skin. Look for products that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or natural oils to help maintain a healthy skin barrier.

What acids should not be used together?

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are great ingredients used separately (or in pre-formulated blends) but mixing the two yourself could cause a major reaction and compromise your skin barrier. One word: ouch.

What can I alternate with glycolic acid?

Otherwise, a good way to incorporate retinol into your beauty routine in addition to glycolic acid would be to alternate them every other night: one night using retinol, another night using a no-rinse exfoliating treatment followed by a moisturizing cream.

Does vitamin C cancel out glycolic acid?

Using glycolic acid and vitamin C together can have a massive, positive effect on your skin — if done in the right way. Applying your glycolic acid product first to clear the skin, followed by your vitamin C product, means that both products can be as effective as possible.

How can I make glycolic acid more effective?

Start slowly: If you have never used glycolic acid before, start with a low concentration product like the Facial Enhancement Cream and use it only once or twice a week. Gradually increase the frequency as your skin becomes more tolerant. Apply to clean skin: Glycolic acid is more effective when applied to clean skin.

What to layer on top of glycolic acid?

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.

What neutralizes glycolic acid?

Neutralisation is required to terminate the action of gly- colic acid peels and can be achieved using water, sodium bicarbonate, sodium hydroxide or ammonium salt solu- tions.

How do you know 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.

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