Glycolic Acid
Also known as AHA, alpha hydroxy acid, hydroxyacetic acid
What is glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid is an AHA made from sugar cane, and it has the smallest molecule of any AHA. That lets it sink in fast and dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells. It smooths texture, fades dark spots, and softens fine lines, and it takes some building up to.
Best forRough texture
Dullness
Fine lines
Dark spots
Products with glycolic acid
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Essopi
Essopi Glycolic 10% Moisturizing Cleanser
$33.00
ClarityRx
ClarityRx Cleanse As Needed 10% Glycolic Cleanser
$34.50
ClarityRx
ClarityRx Restore It 7.5% Glycolic Exfoliator
$62.00
Murad
Murad Vita-C Glycolic Brightening Serum
$89.00
Pairs well with
- Hyaluronic acid
- Ceramides
- Niacinamide
- Sunscreen
Use with caution
- Retinol on the same night
- Other AHAs and BHAs on the same night
- Vitamin C in the same application
- Waxing or peels the same week
Glycolic Acid FAQs
Start with 5% to 8%. Move up to 10% after a month if your skin isn't stinging or peeling.
Use it two or three nights a week. Some skin builds up to every other night.
Use them on different nights. Together they often cause redness and peeling.
You need SPF 30 or higher every morning. Glycolic acid makes your skin burn more easily.
Related reading
This content on this page is for general information only and is not medical advice. Always speak to a dermatologist before starting a new skincare routine.
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