Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid made from sugar cane, is a popular and widely used skincare ingredient found in cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizers and weekly in-home and dermatologists office treatments. Products usually contain 3-10% of glycolic acid and can provide several skincare benefits, such as gently resurfacing uneven skin texture, helping promote new skin cell growth and minimizing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and large pores. Many people have benefited from using glycolic acid, but for those who are new to it and are not sure how to use it, here are some common questions and answers:

Is it for my skin type?

Glycolic acid is recommended for normal, combination and oily/breakout prone skin types.   Dry or sensitive skin may also use it as tolerated.

How often and when do I use glycolic acid?

Most products containing glycolic acid recommend using once per day (either day or night) on an everyday basis. However, since over drying may occur with everyday use and each skin type varies, a general guideline is as follows:

Dry or sensitive skin – once a week

Normal or combination skin – 1-2 times per week

Oily or breakout prone skin – 2-4 times per week, or everyday. Be careful when using everyday since over drying can occur.

Again, since all skin types will vary, glycolic acid should be used per individual tolerance.

Can I still use my regular skincare products once I start using a glycolic acid product?

Yes. Glycolic acid can be incorporated into any existing skincare routine, as long as no allergic reactions or irritation occur when mixing different brands.

Can I use glycolic acid in all my skincare products?

Ideally yes, however it is highly recommended to use only one or two products at a time to avoid over drying or possible irritation.

Will glycolic acid lighten my age spots or clear my acne?

No, but since glycolic acid removes excess dead skin cells and evens out skin texture, it can help in the appearance of more even toned skin. It will also help “prep” skin for the use of brightening, lightening or acne treatments so they work much more effectively instead of working on dead skin cells.

When using glycolic acid, sensitivity to sunlight may occur. Therefore, always use an SPF for daytime and when using cleansers and toners, always follow with a moisturizer. For best results, use glycolic products at night since skin is not exposed to the sun or other environmental elements and skin cells are renewing themselves.

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