Have you ever wondered if you can combine glycolic acid with other active ingredients in your facial care routine? If so, this article is for you. Read on to learn everything you need to know about this ingredient: what it is, how to use it, what other ingredients you can combine it with to enhance its effects, and which ones to avoid to avoid irritating your skin.
Glycolic Acid: What It Is
Glycolic acid, or AHA, is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from sugarcane. It is known for its ability to exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and promoting cell regeneration. This results in brighter, smoother, and more even-textured skin. It also helps reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and combat signs of aging such as fine lines and dark spots.
What can glycolic acid be mixed with?
When combining glycolic acid with other ingredients, it's essential to do so with caution to maximize its benefits without causing skin irritation. Below are some recommended combinations:
Can you mix glycolic acid and vitamin C?
Yes! But with caution. These two ingredients offer the perfect combination for glowing, blemish-free skin. Both are potent, and therefore can sensitize the skin if used together. It's recommended to apply them at different times of the day: vitamin C in the morning, to help prevent oxidation caused by UV rays and enhance the effect of our sunscreen. And glycolic acid at night, to gently exfoliate the skin. This routine allows each ingredient to work effectively without interference.
Can you mix glycolic acid and niacinamide?
Yes, they can be used together, but it's essential to introduce them gradually into your routine, especially if you have sensitive skin. Niacinamide helps soothe the skin and reduce inflammation, balancing the exfoliating effects of glycolic acid. It's suggested applying glycolic acid first, followed by niacinamide in a serum or cream for best results. The result? Redness-free skin with a restored skin barrier. Click here if you'd like to learn more about niacinamide.
Can you mix glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid?
Yes, combining these two ingredients is the perfect combination for perfect skin. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that helps keep skin hydrated. After applying glycolic acid, you can apply your hyaluronic acid treatments to counteract any possible dryness and keep your skin soft, hydrated, and fresh.
It is important to emphasize the use of sunscreen (SPF) daily and especially while you are using glycolic acid.
What glycolic acid can NOT be mixed with
There are ingredients that should not be combined with glycolic acid due to possible adverse reactions. Below are some combinations to avoid:
Glycolic acid and retinol
Both are powerful active ingredients that exfoliate the skin. Using them together can cause irritation, redness, and excessive dryness. It's recommended to alternate their use: for example, use glycolic acid at night and retinol on alternate nights. You can also gradually introduce them into your routine, waiting for your skin to adjust to these ingredients.
Glycolic acid and salicylic acid
Although both are exfoliants, combining them can be overpowering and cause irritation. If you want to use both, it's advisable to apply them on different days to give your skin time to recover. Also, always moisturize your skin afterward.
How to incorporate glycolic acid into your routine
To get the most out of the benefits of glycolic acid, follow these steps:
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Cleanse : Start with a gentle cleanser to remove all impurities
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Exfoliation : Use a toner or serum with glycolic acid, applying it to clean skin.
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Hydration : Apply a serum and a moisturizer to maintain the skin barrier.
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Sunscreen : Always use sunscreen during the day, as glycolic acid can increase sun sensitivity.
We recommend the Anti-Blemish Cleanser with Glycolic Acid
If you're looking for an effective product with glycolic acid, we recommend Skin Generics ' Glycolic Acid Blemish Cleanser . This liquid cleanser contains 5% glycolic acid, 0.25% capryloyl salicylic acid, and 0.25% salicylic acid, providing a deep exfoliation without stripping the skin. Its acidic pH of 4.3 ensures effective cleansing, removing dead skin cells and deeply cleansing pores. It's ideal for use two or three nights a week, leaving it on overnight and completing the treatment with Aloe Vera Regenerating Gel. Glycolic acid is a powerful ally in skincare, but it's essential to know how and what to combine it with to avoid irritation. By following the recommendations above and choosing quality products, such as Skin Generics' Glycolic Acid Blemish Cleanser, you can enjoy more radiant, healthier-looking skin.