Glycolic Acid: More Than Just an Exfoliant
Did you know glycolic acid is a true skincare multitasker? Beyond its well-known exfoliating power, it also brightens, moisturizes, strengthens, and softens the skin.
Here’s how it works:
Brightens-
Glycolic acid gently exfoliates the skin’s surface to uncover fresh, glowing skin that has been hiding beneath the buildup of dead skin, dirt, and oils. It also helps to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation over time by encouraging cell turnover and promoting a more even skin tone.
Moisturizes-
Glycolic acid helps keep the skin moisturized by attracting water molecules, which keeps the skin plump, soft, and hydrated. Moisture is essential for supporting a healthy skin barrier and maintaining smooth skin.
Strengthens-
Glycolic acid strengthens the skin by promoting collagen production, a key protein that provides the skin structure and firmness. By boosting collagen levels, it helps improve skin elasticity and resilience, achieving a firmer, smoother, more youthful complexion over time.
Softens-
With gentle exfoliation, glycolic acid helps soften and smooth the skin’s texture for a more even complexion. It also clears out clogged pores, reducing buildup that can lead to breakouts and dullness, leaving the skin looking fresher and more refined.
How to Use It Wisely:
Sujata Bahri, Our Lead Esthetician and Head of Product Development shares expert tips for safely incorporating glycolic acid into your routine:
Start Slow and Steady
When dealing with glycolic acid, a little goes a long way, so be sure to ease into it. Start with a product that has a low concentration, like our Glow To Go Glycolic Acid Peel Pads or Harmony Solution Toner. If you’re new to glycolic acid go for a mild formula that has 5% or lower concentration.
Layering Skincare Strategically
How you apply your skincare and the order impacts their efficiency. The strategy for skincare layering is simple: go thinnest to thickest. So naturally, you’ll start off with a toner after cleansing. Implementing glycolic acid at this stage is essential to the process, as the glycolic is better able to absorb into the skin and get to work. After cleansing, apply Harmony Glycopolymer Solution toner before serums or moisturizers for optimal absorption.
Keep Chemical Exfoliation a Night Time Ritual
Glycolic acid increases the skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so make sure to only use it in the evening. SPF should be a constant in your routine no matter what, but it's absolutely crucial post-glycolic exfoliation. Try to take extra sun protection measures if the sun is unavoidable, as it often is this time of year.
Follow a Gradual Schedule
Similar to the first point, be cautious upon first use. Like all skincare products, always perform a patch test before applying to your face. Start off slow and steady, using it once a week. After about two weeks, gradually increase with caution to two or three times a week if your skin can tolerate it. Every skin is different, so use trial and error to figure out your ideal exfoliation schedule.
Sensitive Skin Support
For individuals with sensitive skin, it's essential to focus on barrier protection and follow up with a soothing moisturizer like Sonage High Endurance Cream.
Always Use Sunscreen
Glycolic’s impact on sun damage means you must wear sunscreen the following day. SPF should be a daily ritual, but it's non-negotiable when dealing with AHA’s like glycolic acid. Opt for an SPF 30 or higher, we recommend a mineral sunscreen like Protec Plus for effective protection.
The Forbidden Skincare Cocktail
Glycolic acid can do wonders for the complexion, but when combined with retinol, it’s a recipe for disaster. You do not want these two divas in the same room. Retinol is a common skincare ingredient used in anti-aging and acne products, so always check your ingredients and perform a patch test before adding a staple in your skincare routine.
