Glycolic Acid Skincare Benefits

Glycolic Acid can help demystify how to incorporate this powerful ingredient into your routine effectively. Glycolic Acid, a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), is celebrated for its exfoliating properties, ability to stimulate collagen production, and improve skin texture and tone. 

Here’s a concise chart to guide you through incorporating Glycolic Acid into your skincare regimen.

Product Type

How to Use

Benefits

Cleanser

Use once daily, preferably in the evening. Apply to damp skin, gently massage, and rinse off.

Removes surface debris and oils, preparing the skin for subsequent products. Mildly exfoliates to reveal fresher skin.

Toner

Apply after cleansing, dabbing it on the skin with a cotton pad or fingers. Use every other day until your skin adjusts.

Further refines skin texture by removing any residual impurities and dead skin cells. Balances the skin’s pH.

Serum

Apply 2-3 drops to clean, dry skin before moisturizers and oils. Start with every other night, gradually increasing to nightly use as tolerated.

Concentrated glycolic acid penetrates deeply to stimulate collagen, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

Cream/Moisturizer

Apply a pea-sized amount to the face and neck at night, starting 2-3 times a week and increasing frequency as tolerated.

Hydrates and seals in moisture, while gently exfoliating the skin’s surface for smoother, more radiant skin.

Mask

Use once a week, applying a thin layer to clean skin and leaving on for the specified time before rinsing off.

Provides a deeper exfoliation to help clear pores, enhance skin brightness, and improve texture.

Sunscreen

Apply generously to the face and neck as the last step in your morning routine. Reapply every 2 hours when exposed to sunlight.

Essential for protecting the skin from UV damage, especially since glycolic acid can increase photosensitivity. Prevents premature aging and skin cancer

 

Key Points to Remember:

Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before introducing a new glycolic acid product into your routine.

Sun Sensitivity: Glycolic acid increases the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is crucial.

Gradual Introduction: Start with lower concentrations and less frequent application, gradually building up as your skin becomes accustomed to prevent irritation.

Hydration: Ensure your skin is well-hydrated when using glycolic acid products to avoid dryness or irritation. Drink lots of water while using Glycolic Acid products

Consultation: If you have sensitive skin or skin conditions, consult a dermatologist before incorporating glycolic acid into your skincare regimen.

 

This chart offers a straightforward approach to using glycolic acid, highlighting its transformative benefits for the skin when used correctly.