Face/Neck Application: Apply once daily, ideally in the evening. Apply to the face and neck using a cotton pad or fingers. Scalp Application: Apply to dry scalp, three times a week. Tilt your head back and use the nozzle to gently dispense product from the front to the back of the head in a sweeping motion.
Just as glycolic acid helps with dry skin on your face and body, it can have the same effect if you experience dryness on your scalp too. You'll notice that glycolic acid is often used in scalp treatments and anti-dandruff shampoos, but you can also apply a concentrated glycolic acid solution to your scalp too.
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.
Layer your glycolic acid with a mild retinol based moisturizer or a 0. 1% ah retinol. This is going to supercharge your anti-aging game.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Use glycolic acid products exclusively at night. This is important as glycolic acid, and all other AHAs increase the skin's sensitivity to UV radiation. To safeguard the freshly exfoliated skin, apply at bedtime and wear sunscreen in the morning.
Glycolic acid's penetration can easily restore balance to your armpits, dislodging the bacteria breaking down your sweat, to create a fresh and odorless environment. It has worked wonders for people with a variety of skin types and has quickly become one of the hottest products on the market.
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.
Glycolic Acid Toner is a potent exfoliating treatment and we advise against everyday exfoliation as this can cause irritation and skin sensitivity. Exfoliating 1-3 times per week in your PM routine is ideal and you skin will still enjoy the benefits if you use this product consistently.
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.
Some active ingredients like Retinol, Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid are best left at room temperature as drastic changes can impact their integrity. A good rule of thumb is to chill formulas that aim to hydrate and soothe, whereas exfoliants and anti-agers are best stored at room temperature.
Combining glycolic acid and lactic acid can be quite potent and is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of irritation. Both acids are effective exfoliants, and using them together can over-exfoliate the skin.
If left you'll find the pores become blocked which results in blackheads, blemishes, and spots. It is because of the exfoliating benefits of glycolic acid I suggest using it first as you'll find that the hyaluronic acid enriched product you use after will absorb quickly and effectively into the skin.
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.
Technically, you can use retinol and glycolic acid together — but we recommend being very careful and using the products on alternate days. Both ingredients have excellent exfoliating properties and can improve the skin's overall appearance, but when combined they can cause dryness, redness and flakiness.
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.
Be patient with the process: Your skin may feel a bit rough after your first few treatments. This is normal and just means that the glycolic acid is working. Unless your skin is irritated, keep using your glycolic acid product. You should slowly start to see smoother, more healthy skin.
Retinoids and Glycolic Acid
Retinoids (including retinol) are fantastic for boosting cell turnover and fighting aging. However, pairing them with glycolic acid is like inviting two energetic party crashers into a small room—they can overwhelm your skin.
Many Glycolic Acid products are leave-on treatments that absorb into your skin and work their magic! However, if you're using a Glycolic Acid Peel, you may need to rinse it off. Always follow the recommended treatment time on the individual product.