Layering Order: Apply glycolic acid first to exfoliate and prepare the skin. Follow up with hyaluronic acid to hydrate and replenish moisture. This sequence ensures that the exfoliation process does not strip the skin of hydration, and the hydrating benefits of hyaluronic acid can penetrate more effectively.
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.
Hyaluronic Acid acts a humectant by pulling moisture into your skin, making it ideal to use with Glycolic Acid, which can be drying or irritating at times. You can opt to layer Hyaluronic Acid over Glycolic Acid or use Hyaluronic Acid in the morning and Glycolic Acid in the evening.
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.
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.
To double down on anti-aging benefits, pair glycolic acid with either lactic acid or malic acid, both of which unblock pores so that exfoliation is more effective.
Hydration Boost: Hyaluronic acid can help mitigate any potential dryness or irritation caused by glycolic acid, making it a perfect pair for those with sensitive or dry skin.
For even-looking skin, pair Vitamin C derivatives with Glycolic Acid. For smoother-looking skin, pair Retinaldehyde and Hyaluronic Acid. For clearer-looking skin, pair Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. For hydrated skin, pair Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide.
So, this leaves many skincare enthusiasts asking, “Can I use glycolic acid with niacinamide?” Although the answer is yes, you must use them one after the other with proper intervals following proper skincare tips and advice. Read this article to learn how to use both these ingredients together.
It's powerful on its own, which means doubling up on exfoliating ingredients can easily go overboard. The Warning: Combining glycolic acid with other potent exfoliants (even other AHAs or BHAs) can lead to over-exfoliation. The signs include irritation, redness, and a compromised skin barrier.
Apply glycolic acid first, then snail mucin.
Glycolic acid, with its small molecular size, penetrates the skin easily and quickly, strategising a well-planned attack on dead skin cells. It's a sort of sorcerer with a spell potent enough to dissolve the binding lipids holding the old, cruddy cells together.
Having said this, if you have a skin type that feels tight and sensitive, you can try applying hyaluronic acid first and follow it up with glycolic acid. Doing so will ensure that your skin is fully moisturised and able to absorb all other formulations, resulting in a healthy complexion.
Next, take an adequate amount of glycolic acid toner on your palm or a cotton pad and gently wipe your face and neck. Follow up with a hydrating face serum and face moisturizer for best results. Lastly, use an SPF or sunscreen before stepping out under the harmful UV rays.
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.
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.
Vitamin E is best used as a standalone product — it should not be combined with other acids, retinol or any type of exfoliant. Additionally, you should avoid using any products with vitamin E during the day, as it can leave your skin vulnerable to sun damage.
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.
Niacinamide: Niacinamide is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help calm the skin after using glycolic acid and reduce any redness or irritation. Moisturizer: Applying a moisturizer after glycolic acid is essential to restore hydration and nourish the skin.
After glycolic acid, use a hydrating serum. Hyaluronic acid, again, is a top pick. It binds to water and lubricates those parched skin cells like a mini oasis. Watch as it fluffs up your skin by infusing it with moisture, rounding out the effects of the glycolic acid.
Once the product has been absorbed into the skin, you can follow with a hydrating serum such as Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 or a rich moisturizer such as Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides. In the mornings, always remember to apply SPF.
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.
There are several active ingredients that can be paired together and are beneficial for your skin. However, glycolic acid and niacinamide cannot be used together at the same time. This is because mixing these two ingredients can make these acids less effective.
AHAs include glycolic acid from sugar cane, lactic acid from milk, and citric acid from citrus fruits. To cease its action during a peel, glycolic acid necessitates a neutralizing agent, such as sodium bicarbonate and water.