Dec
Skincare
What You Should Avoid When Using Glycolic Acid Skincare Products
Picture this: you’re eager to achieve glowing, radiant skin, and you’ve just discovered glycolic acid—one of the most popular ingredients in skincare today. This powerhouse exfoliator promises smoother skin, fewer breakouts, and reduced signs of aging. But here’s the catch: using it incorrectly or combining it with the wrong products can do more harm than good. In fact, not knowing what to avoid when using glycolic acid can lead to irritation, redness, and other skin woes. So, what should you steer clear of to maximize its benefits?
Let’s break it down so you can confidently incorporate glycolic acid into your routine—and avoid the common pitfalls that trip up so many.
The Power and Sensitivity of Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid belongs to the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family and is celebrated for its ability to exfoliate dead skin cells, stimulate collagen production, and improve overall skin texture. Its small molecular size allows it to penetrate deeply into the skin, making it exceptionally effective. However, this same characteristic also makes it potent and potentially irritating if misused.
Research shows that AHAs, including glycolic acid, can increase skin sensitivity to the sun by up to 50%. According to the FDA, this heightened sensitivity underscores the importance of avoiding certain products and habits while using glycolic acid.
Avoid Combining Glycolic Acid with Retinol or Retinoids
One of the most common mistakes people make is pairing glycolic acid with retinol or prescription retinoids like tretinoin. Both are powerful ingredients, but they serve different purposes and can overwhelm your skin when used together. Glycolic acid exfoliates the outer layer of skin, while retinol accelerates cell turnover. When combined, they can lead to severe dryness, peeling, and irritation.
If you want to use both, consider alternating days or reserving glycolic acid for your morning routine (with sunscreen!) and retinol for nighttime. This way, you’ll reap the benefits of both without stressing your skin.
Steer Clear of Vitamin C at the Same Time
Vitamin C is another superstar ingredient, known for its brightening and antioxidant properties. However, it doesn’t play well with glycolic acid when used simultaneously. The reason? The pH levels required for each ingredient to work effectively differ significantly. Glycolic acid’s low pH can destabilize vitamin C, rendering it less effective. Worse, the combination can irritate sensitive skin.
A smarter approach is to use vitamin C in the morning and glycolic acid at night. This allows each ingredient to shine without compromising your skin’s barrier.
Skip Physical Exfoliants and Scrubs
Adding a physical scrub on top of a chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid is a recipe for disaster. Over-exfoliation can strip your skin’s protective barrier, leading to redness, sensitivity, and even breakouts. Remember, glycolic acid already exfoliates your skin effectively. Doubling up isn’t just unnecessary—it’s harmful.
If you love the sensation of a scrub, save it for days when you’re not using glycolic acid. And even then, choose a gentle option that won’t aggravate your skin.
Avoid Mixing Glycolic Acid with Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is a common acne-fighting ingredient, but it’s not compatible with glycolic acid. Together, these ingredients can cause excessive dryness and irritation. Moreover, their combined use can disrupt your skin’s pH balance, diminishing the efficacy of both.
If you’re treating acne, alternate between glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide. For example, use glycolic acid to exfoliate and improve skin texture on certain days, and benzoyl peroxide to target active breakouts on others.
Say No to Fragranced or Alcohol-Based Products
Fragrance and alcohol are two common culprits that can exacerbate irritation when using glycolic acid. Fragranced products often contain allergens that may trigger sensitivity, while alcohol-based formulas can excessively dry out your skin.
To keep things simple, opt for fragrance-free, alcohol-free cleansers and moisturizers. Your skin will thank you for the extra gentleness.
Be Careful with Sun Exposure
If there’s one rule you should never break when using glycolic acid, it’s this: protect your skin from the sun. Glycolic acid makes your skin more photosensitive, increasing the risk of sunburn and long-term damage.
Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 during the day. Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors. And don’t forget to pair it with other sun protection measures, like wearing hats and seeking shade.
Avoid Using Glycolic Acid on Compromised Skin
If your skin is already irritated, sunburned, or recovering from a procedure like microneedling or laser treatment, steer clear of glycolic acid. Using it on compromised skin can delay healing and cause further irritation. Instead, focus on soothing, hydrating products until your skin is back to normal.
Don’t Neglect Hydration and Moisturization
While this isn’t about an ingredient to avoid, it’s crucial to mention. Glycolic acid can be drying, so skipping hydrating and moisturizing steps in your routine is a mistake. Use a hydrating serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and follow up with a rich, barrier-repairing moisturizer.
Keep Away from Overly Harsh Cleansers
Foaming cleansers and those with sulfates may feel satisfying to use, but they can strip your skin’s natural oils. When combined with glycolic acid, this can lead to over-drying and irritation. Instead, choose a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that complements your exfoliation routine.
Listen to Your Skin
Your skin’s tolerance to glycolic acid may change over time. What works well during cooler months might feel too intense in summer. Pay attention to how your skin reacts and adjust your usage accordingly. If you notice increased redness, peeling, or discomfort, take a break and focus on repairing your skin barrier.
Glycolic Acid Can Transform Your Skin—When Used Wisely
Incorporating glycolic acid into your skincare routine can yield impressive results, but only if you use it responsibly. By avoiding the combinations and practices outlined above, you can enjoy smoother, more radiant skin without the unwanted side effects.
Remember, skincare is a journey, not a race. Patience and consistency are key. And when in doubt, consult a dermatologist to ensure your routine is tailored to your unique needs.
