I only recommend products I love and I think you will, too. If you click on links I provide, I may receive a little compensation. Learn more.
Only if you knew how to use glycolic acid correctly, you’d know how blindly glowing skin is just seconds away!
Are you concerned about your skin looking weary and dull? Do you wish to bring back that youthful glow on your face once again? Then glycolic acid is one such ingredient that you must add to your skincare regime right away!
By removing dead cells and oil from your face, it brings back that radiating glow and smooth texture on your skin.
Want to know how to use this magical ingredient to enhance your beauty? Scroll down and dive deeper into the details!
Umm…Glycolic Acid, What’s that?
Babe! Your girl is here to cater to all your doubts! Fret not, as I won’t complicate things for you. Let’s begin with the basic meaning of glycolic acid.
First of all, there is nothing to be afraid of this product because of the word “acid” associated with it. Trust me when I say that your skin will thank you for incorporating this acid into your daily skincare routine.
Glycolic acid is basically a type of colorless natural compound that is available in sugarcane, fruits, and beets. It is one of the most popular AHA or alpha hydroxy acids used by pharmaceutical companies and cosmetic manufacturers in their skincare products, such as toners, exfoliators, cleansers, and so on.
4 Greenflags that You Can’t Ignore in Glycolic Acid!
If you are wondering why I am calling this acid a miraculous one, then have a look at this! I am sure your crush does not give you as many green flags as glycolic acid does.
Below given are the best properties of glycolic acid that make it absolutely non-negotiable among your skincare products:
Is humectant
Okay! Let’s make it simpler. Basically, glycolic acid is hydrating in nature.
It is antibacterial in nature
This acid is capable of preventing the growth of bacteria on your skin.
It is highly exfoliative
It is a chemical exfoliant that removes dead skin cells and dissolves dirt and oil.
It has anti-aging properties
It slows down the aging of your skin and even heals the lines and wrinkles to a great extent.
What are the Biggest Advantages of Using Glycolic Acid?
If you do it right, here’s what you can expect from this miracle acid!
1. Evens out your skin tone
Do you have uneven skin tones because of issues like hyperpigmentation, open pores, melasma, etc.? Glycolic acid can bring great relief to you by offering an even skin tone. With regular application, it treats skin conditions and offers a radiant look.
2. Helps you get rid of acne
If you are fed up with this uninvited guest ruining your dates, family functions, and modeling assignments, then it is high time you include glycolic acid in your beauty regime. By removing layers of dead skin cells and sebum, it opens up clogged pores. Thus, this acid prevents acne breakout and also saves you from those nasty blackheads and whiteheads.
3. Boosts collagen growth
Glycolic acid has minute molecules that can penetrate deep across multiple layers of skin. This deep penetration further promotes collagen production, thereby rendering a supple and youthful look.
4. Offers anti-aging benefits
Glycolic acid maintains the elasticity of your skin, making it more plumpy and supple. Thereby, it helps in removing signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and so on.
5. Helps you cope with UV damage
If dark spots and wrinkles have appeared on your face because of excessive sun exposure, then glycolic acid can help you out. It offers protection against harmful UVB rays, thereby preventing instances of photoaging. Also, the acid can magically treat sunspots and wrinkles.
6. Keeps your skin hydrated
Glycolic acid is like a magic potion, especially for those who have dry skin. It keeps your skin soft, nourished, and hydrated.
Phhewww….Such a multitasker it is!
How to use Glycolic Acid in Your Skin Care Rituals?
Are you convinced enough to use glycolic acid on a daily basis? Or do I have to put in more effort, bub?
Well, here’s a list of ways you can use glycolic acid as an integral part of your skincare routine. The sheer ease of using it will force you to include this acid in your list of beauty essentials. Here you go!
1. Toner
Wanna know how using glycolic acid toner can do wonders for your skin? After washing your face at night with a mild cleanser, you can use this toner to restore the pH level of your skin as well as remove any kind of impurities, oil, or dirt.
This toner can be used every day, irrespective of your skin type.
Looking for the best glycolic acid toner in town? I swear, I only swear by this toner because the glow it gives me is unbeatable!
2. Cleanser
Glycolic acid is undoubtedly one of the most used ingredients in cleansers, especially the ones made to treat acne.
Go get yourself a cleanser that consists of glycolic acid as well as salicylic acid. Use the product to clean your skin before hitting the bed at night. Also, the combination of glycolic acid and salicylic acid removes acne successfully and offers you pimple-free skin within weeks of regular usage.
This, too, can be used on a daily basis – thanks to the lower concentration level of glycolic acid in the cleanser.
If you are confused as to which cleanser to buy, here’s one you should definitely try!
3. Face mask
A face mask with glycolic acid can make your skin glow in no time! Use it once a week, and you will start noticing a significant improvement in your skin texture, complexion and quality.
First of all, wash your face with a cleanser. Then apply an exfoliator. After cleaning your face, apply this mask and wait for 20 to 30 minutes. Wash it off with water.
Remember that face masks tend to have a higher concentration of glycolic acid. So, it is better to use the product once a week, and not more than that.
4. Chemical peel
For those who are planning to go for a chemical peel session in the upcoming weeks, you can try the glycolic acid chemical peel. Just make sure that you visit a professional and certified dermatologist who has years of experience in the industry. A glycolic acid chemical peel can cater to multiple skin issues like rough skin texture, hyperpigmentation and so on.
Honestly, if you are looking for the best chemical peel ever, I could literally die for this one.
4. Exfoliator
Having a glycolic acid exfoliator can remove all the dead skin cells, sebum, and dirt efficiently. Since glycolic acid is a natural exfoliator, when it gets combined with an exfoliating product, the result you get is simply mindblowing.
You will be amazed to see the glow on your face. Also, do not forget the smoothness of your skin.
I promise your bae won’t be able to keep his hands away from your cheeks 😜 Btw, if yo’re looking for a good glycolic acid exfoliator, here’s my recommendation for the best!
5. Serum
If you are fond of using serums, shop for a night serum that contains glycolic acid. Serums are naturally good for the skin. But when you combine it with the benefits of glycolic acid, you are actually nourishing your skin to the core.
Here’s one serum that you simply can’t say no to!
6. body wash
Oh yes, girl, you can even use glycolic acid body washes. I started using them for ingrown hair, small bumps, back acne, gentle exfoliation, and to get rid of my armpit smell. And it worked like a charm for all that!
I love and recommend this little gem and cannot b happier with the results!
What to use after glycolic acid?
After using a glycolic acid product, it’s important to take steps to nourish and protect your skin! Slathering on a soothing moisturizer with antioxidants like vitamin E or green tea extract can help minimize redness and irritation.
But don’t forget the sunscreen! Glycolic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so SPF is a must every day — even when it feels like you’re not going to be out too long!
Also, adding in serum containing hyaluronic acid can help you lock in moisture for a dewy-looking glow. Plus, no matter what products you use after glycolic acid, stick with them consistently for maximum results.
Things You Must Know Before You Start Using Glycolic Acid!
Alright, babe! Now that you know the phenomenal benefits of glycolic acid and the various ways in which you can use it, here are a few things you must keep in mind before you actually start using the acid.
If you use it with caution, mark my words- “You will shine and glow, girl!”
- Always use glycolic acid-based products at night: Yes, darling! Just like vampires, glycolic acid can’t survive the harsh sun rays! Well, glycolic acid may cause skin irritation when exposed to direct sun rays. It is, therefore, advisable to combine it in the nighttime skincare routine. However, if you ever use it in a daytime product, make sure you use sunscreen.
- Glycolic acid can be used in combination with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid: But remember that excess of anything is bad. So, do not go overboard with experimentation. Also, you must not use any kind of manual exfoliant along with glycolic acid.
- Glycolic acid does suit all skin types, but there are exceptions: Babe, you can use glycolic acid on oily skin, combination skin and normal skin without any worry. But you must opt for a patch test in case you have an extremely dry or sensitive skin type.
- Start with 3 days a week: You need to have patience, babe! You can’t take risks with your skin, after all! So, you start applying glycolic acid-based products for just 3 days a week. Once you feel that it is doing no harm to your skin or you are not getting allergic to it, feel free to use it on a regular basis.
- Go for a glycolic acid chemical peeling session under professional supervision: Glycolic acid chemical peeling session can irritate your skin as it has a very high concentration of glycolic acid. So, you must always get it done after getting skin tests under the observation of certified dermatologists.
[ Hyaluronic Acid Vs Retinol: Which Is Better? ]
What not to use with glycolic acid?
To get the best out of this powerful ingredient, there are some things you want to avoid while using glycolic acid. Avoid exfoliating cleansers and scrubs, as this can over-exfoliate the skin and create more issues than solutions.
The same goes for layering other products with active ingredients— think retinol and benzoyl peroxide. You also don’t want to slather on thick moisturizers combined with the acid, either.
Glycolic Acid is an intensive treatment that needs room to do its job without interference from other skincare items. And once done, make sure you follow up with a gentle hydrators like serum or light moisturizer!
What can you mix glycolic acid with?
Skincare has come a long way – and mixing actives is one of the ways that we can amp up our routine for maximum benefits! You may have been wondering: can I mix glycolic acid with other active ingredients?
The answer is yes, and the combination you select depends on your skin goals.
For example, if you’re looking to reduce discoloration or brighten your complexion, try pairing glycolic acid with vitamin C.
Alternatively, if you want to target wrinkles or visibly plump the skin, combine it with peptides or hyaluronic acid.
And if radiant, glowing skin is your target, mix glycolic acid with niacinamide for a blinding effect.
Is it OK to use glycolic acid everyday?
Depending on the concentration of it, you can decide if it is ok to use everyday or not. I mean, if the concentration is mild, ranging between 1% to 5%, you can absolutely use it everyday. But if it’s high, from 15%-30%, you must use it once a week.
Also, consider your skin type. If you have highly sensitive skin, steer clear from using glycolic acid every day.
Where to Find the Best Glycolic Acid-based Product?
Wondering where to get these beautiful babies? Worry not, as your girl has got you covered!
Glycolic acid is easily found in OTC or over-the-counter products. So, you can shop for your favorite glycolic acid product online or visit any local market, drug store or spa center. You will be overwhelmed to see such a huge variety available!
Wrapping up how to use glycolic acid
Before I bid adieu for today, here’s what I want you to know!
Girl, you are beautiful. You are self-sufficient. And you are enough.
But pampering your skin and taking care of yourself so that you look more beautiful is not at all wrong.
Make it a point to take care of your skin on a regular basis. Because if not you, who else will think about you?
Next time you buy yourself skin care products, make sure you incorporate glycolic acid products as well. Just refer to my article and make a well-informed and smart choice.
Okay, taking your leave for now!
Toodles!
related articles to how to use glycolic acid
- How To Layer The Ordinary Products: Your Fuss Free Guide
- Can I Use Glycolic Acid With Niacinamide? You Need To Know This!
- How To Build The Ordinary Skincare Routine
