What does 70% glycolic acid do?

Author: Jayda Grady  |  Last update: Thursday, May 8, 2025

A glycolic acid chemical peel is a concentrated glycolic acid formulation that ranges in strength from 20—70% glycolic acid to gently exfoliate layers of the skin. Glycolic peels slough off the surface and middle layers of the skin, removing dead skin cells and other types of debris from the skin and its pores.

Is 70% glycolic acid too strong?

While a glycolic 70% peel isn't the strongest, it is still strong enough that it should be done in a doctor's office under the supervision of a dermatologist or experienced board-certified physician.

What percentage of glycolic acid works best?

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 7 percent glycolic acid good?

This makes sense, as studies suggest that glycolic acid peels are most effective at improving acne when applied at concentrations between 20% and 70%. This is only 7%. For this reason, I wouldn't recommend The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toning Solution as a stand alone acne treatment if you're struggling with your skin.

What is glycolic acid 70% used for?

People use glycolic acid for acne, aging skin, dark skin patches on the face, and acne scars. It is also used for stretch marks and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these other uses.

Platinum Skin Care Glycolic Acid Peels | Which Percentage | Who is it for?

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.

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.

Does glycolic acid remove dark spots?

Glycolic acid is highly effective in reducing dark spots and treating hyperpigmentation. It works by promoting the shedding of pigmented cells and encouraging the growth of new, evenly pigmented skin cells. This process helps to lighten dark spots and improve the uniformity of the skin's tone.

Can I leave glycolic acid on overnight?

Glycolic acid can be used on the face and let it absorbed into the skin by leaving it on all night. Rinse off with water the next day.

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.

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.

How often can I use 70% glycolic acid on my face?

Start slowly, using products with glycolic acid only once or twice a week. If your skin can tolerate that, then you can gradually increase the frequency of application.

How do you 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.

Does glycolic acid lighten the pubic area?

This can be beneficial for intimate areas prone to discoloration or hyperpigmentation. Studies have demonstrated that regular use of AHAs, including glycolic acid, can reduce hyperpigmentation effectively.

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.

Does skin purge after glycolic acid?

Glycolic acid is a powerful ingredient that can provide numerous benefits for the skin, but it can also cause skin purging, redness, and burning if used improperly. Here are some tips to prevent these side effects when using glycolic acid: It starts with a lower-concentration product and uses it once or twice a week.

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.

Will glycolic acid remove blackheads?

AHAs, including glycolic and lactic acid, are water-soluble (they dissolve in water) which makes their sloughing powers most effective in the top layer of the skin, where they can help address surface-level issues like fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and blackheads.

What not to use with glycolic acid?

AHAs/BHAs and Retinol: Combining exfoliating acids (like glycolic acid or salicylic acid) with retinol can lead to excessive dryness and irritation.

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.

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.

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.

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