When applied to the skin, glycolic acid works to break the bonds between the outer layer of skin cells, including dead skin cells, and the next skin cell layer. This creates a peeling effect that can make the skin appear smoother and more even. This includes dead skin cells and oil.

You should decide between using glycolic acid as a wash or as a toner every day, because they both have lower concentrations that are meant for daily use, then add a glycolic acid mask weekly. This will give you the full benefits of the acid while being safe for your skin.

“Glycolic acid works by loosening the bonds between skin cells in the top layers of the skin, allowing these dead skin cells to slough away and reveal newer layers of skin,” explains Dr. Chang. This leads to a more vibrant, glowing complexion.

Glycolic acid, however, does fade darks spots and hyperpigmentation making it a safe ingredient to brighten and even your complexion. Glycolic acid evens skin tone by exfoliating your skin’s surface and removing darker, melanin-stanined, dead skin cells.

Glycolic acid is a fantastic anti-aging agent that seems to do it all. It’s very effective at exfoliating skin and reducing fine lines, preventing acne, fading dark spots, increasing skin thickness, and evening out skin tone and texture. So it’s no surprise that you’ll find it in many cult skin care products.

You can leave it on your face overnight and let it absorb into your skin. Wash it out the next day with water. However, remember that this can cause sun sensitivity and even aggravate acne in a few cases.

Apply moisturizer after your glycolic acid product. Remember to always apply moisturizer twice a day (morning and evening) to protect and hydrate your newly exfoliated skin. Keeping your skin hydrated will also prevent any potential redness or irritation from your glycolic acid product.

Is glycolic acid or retinol better for acne scarring? Simply put: retinols. They work at a deeper level than glycolic acid to stimulate collagen and elastin production to smooth the skin’s surface and improve texture and tone.

The benefits: it has better bioavailability (how well the skin can use an ingredient), is more efficacious, and has 55% higher antioxidant power than traditional vitamin C. Can I combine vitamin C and glycolic acid?

It lightens sun spots, freckles, age spots, hyperpigmented areas, and acne marks. Another benefit of glycolic acid is that it enhances collagen production in the skin and makes the skin more supple. It can lighten superficial melasma. It helps to replenish the lost moisture in the skin.

Using high concentrations of glycolic acid without guidance can cause burns and damage your skin . Since it a strong exfoliant, it can dry out your skin. Therefore, moisturize your skin after using it.

Glycolic acid and retinol are safe to use together for those with normal or oily skin . For those with sensitive or dry skin, it is best to use them separately. Start with a 10-percent (or lower) glycolic acid solution. If your skin has no irritation, then you can try using together with retinol. There are many precautions and tips to consider.

Glycolic acid is often used for light chemical peels, which can help treat a number of skin conditions including acne and acne scars, large pores, dark spots, and sun damage.

Glycolic acid peels are considered a safe and effective treatment for a variety of skin conditions, including acne, hyperpigmentation, and photoaging.