Buy a product containing around 5 to 8 percent of glycolic acid if it’s your first time to use it. Then, put a small amount of retinol before applying another layer of gentle moisturizer. This post is the complete guide to using glycolic acid and it explains the most important things you need to know about this anti-aging powerhouse ingredient. Check the label to know how long you should leave the product on your skin. Do you need to keep them separate? It's one of the most revered skincare ingredients that dermatologists love … I know from experience that when you first hear about The Ordinary you will fill your basket right up because the … ... With continued use, this glycolic acid-based toner improves the appearance of skin texture and dullness. Retinol is an unpredictable chemical and doesn’t go along well with many ‘actives’ (chemicals that hydrate, rejuvenate, and nourish the skin at a cellular level). Prescription retinol doesn’t share the same problem, but it’s usually more difficult to tolerate. One study even showed an increased efficacy of glycolic acid used with retinol over retinol or glycolic acid alone. An exfoliant removes the outer layer of the skin to bring out brighter, lighter, and fresher skin. That’s why it’s important to use sunscreen (with moisturizer, if possible) to avoid damaging your skin. Do a small skin patch test. But you can also think of it like this: Glycolics work from the top down, while retinols do their thing from the bottom up. For the first few weeks of using topical retinol, as it accelerates skin cell turnover, you could experience dryness, flaking, itching, peeling, redness, and general inflammation. For more oily skin, you can try the 20% glycolic acid solution in the CANE + AUSTIN Miracle Pads. Spot treatments. Don’t use too much. In order to avoid this, yet still reap the benefits of both, I'm considering doing a glycolic acid week alternated with a tretinoin week. Apply a small amount of the glycolic acid solution on your inner forearm and wait for 30 minutes to 24 hours for reactions. Hi. So, I absolutely fell in love with the Glycolic Acid toner and I started off using it 2x a week then every other night. Ideally, you’d apply your spot treatments (whether they’re for zits, scars, or … Step 2: Apply a toner or facial mist and DO NOT PAT DRY. “I advise starting with retinol applied at night with a moisturizer and gentle cleanser, and using the same cleanser and a broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning,” says Dr. Lain. Listen to your skin. Like glycolic acid, retinol can be drying and irritating. The great thing about glycolic acid is it’ is made of very fine particles compared to other AHAs. It’s a liquid, so I pour a little on a cotton pad and apply it to my skin. This surface appearance of the skin is one of the reasons people get scared of using this retinoid in their skin care routine. https://sciencebecomesher.com/can-you-use-glycolic-acid-and-retinol-together Recently I've been alternating every other night, but I find this always leads to a "peely" day on the mornings after glycolic acid nights. © 2021 Well+Good LLC. (If your skin is … Don’t forget to moisturize after applying a skin care product with glycolic acid in it. However, dermatologists believe that everyone could benefit from this retinoid. Which Is Better: Retinol or Glycolic Acid? The Ordinary products typically are either water-based or oil-based, and it's important you apply your water-based products first. The formula also improves the appearance of skin texture with continued use. Can You Use Retinol and Niacinamide Together? It’s a strong retinoid, but it’s usually tolerable, especially by people with oily skin. To help the azelaic acid absorb and perform even more effectively, Fusco recommends applying your AHA (like glycolic or lactic acid), BHA (salicylic acid), or retinol first … 3The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution. For those with sensitive or dry skin, it is best to use them separately. Dermatologists can use acids in much higher concentrations that are only available to professionals, while only weaker forms of acid are available over the counter to consumers. Glycolic acid and retinol are two of the industry’s go-to ingredients for promoting young-looking, flawless, and even-toned skin. Glycolic acid can be combined with low percentage retinol in the same routine for excellent anti-aging results, however, you should not … See the below video for some great insight and tips on can you use glycolic acid and retinol together? In order to avoid this, yet still reap the benefits of both, I'm considering doing a glycolic acid … Glycolic acid is the most common type of AHA (alpha hydroxy acid), a skin exfoliant. This depends on what are you using and how often are you using it. Everyone’s skin can react differently So the most important is to just start with a small patch skin test to see if there is irritation or not. Step 1: Wash your face using your favorite cleanser. This formula contains a studied Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative to help reduce irritation associated with acid use. I then apply the retinoid and finish with the B oil from the ordinary… Allow time for your skin to adjust to it. Glycolic acid and retinol are safe to use together for those with normal or oily skin. Dr. Talakoub notes that you should slather your skin with two coats of moisturizer (your usual followed by a second helping 10 minutes later after it’s soaked in), and add a hyaluronic acid step for some bonus moisture. Chemical exfoliants that include glycolic acid and lactic acid (AHAs) and salicylic acid and its derivatives (BHAs). If you have oily skin, you can use 30-percent glycolic acid twice per week. Don’t use glycolic acid if you: frequently tan in the. A 10-percent (or lower) glycolic acid solution is a good start. Sure, sure, doubling down on glycolic acid and retinol might make your routine longer and pricier (and take up slightly more space in your medicine cabinet), but for the sake of a true skin-deep, inside-out glow, I’m officially calling it “worth it.”, Oh hi! Deciem Responses Regarding Conflicts & The Ordinary Products You Can & Cannot Mix Why can´t I now use Vitamin C derivatives with Niacinamide? This 7% toning solution offers mild exfoliation for improved skin radiance and visible clarity. However, they can make your skin dry, irritated, and extra sensitive to sunlight, especially if used improperly. If it’s your first time with glycolic acid, you’ll probably experience a gentle tingling. Once this regimen has been maintained for weeks, you can begin a topical acid once weekly on a night you’re not using … RELATED: Best Salicylic Acid Toners. The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA. “I advise starting with retinol applied at night with a moisturizer and gentle cleanser, and using the same cleanser and a broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning,” says Dr. Lain. In fact, I recommend you do. Can You Use Glycolic Acid and Retinol Together to Treat Acne and Acne Scarring? If you have dry or sensitive skin, it is best to only use glycolic acid at first (10% strength or less). The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Sol… If your skin becomes too dry, you can try lowering the concentration and using it once per week or every other night. “It can be used alongside AHAs, which is really exciting to me,” she says. Now, first some background. You can layer hyaluronic acid with everything. This means it can penetrate deeper into your hair follicles and skin to remove dead skin, sebum, and excess oil, which could’ve otherwise clogged your pores. “For example, one would begin by using a small pea-sized amount of retinoid once a week, and wait to see how the skin reacts before moving to twice weekly and then three times weekly. Retinol needs to be converted into retinoic acid (via retinal) in the skin in order to bind with the retinoic acid receptors. Recently I've been alternating every other night, but I find this always leads to a "peely" day on the mornings after glycolic acid nights. You can use glycolic acid (or other alpha hydroxy acids) and retinol together if you have oily or normal skin. It’s a liquid, so I pour a little on a cotton pad and apply it to my skin. If ordered before 5pm, Royal Mail Special Delivery is guaranteed by Royal Mail to arrive the next working day for 99% of the UK. If your skin is extra sensitive, or if you don’t know how your skin will react to it, try skin care products with glycolic acid (or retinol) with hydrating ingredients. Read on to learn more about whether you can use glycolic acid and retinol together and the benefits of each! When your pores are clogged, it could result in blackheads, whiteheads, and acne or pimple breakouts. You can increase the concentration or application frequency after around 21 to 28 days. Can I use it every night … Hi. “Because the retinol is loaded with such great bioavailable, nourishing oils that can be absorbed easily, I was finding that it was the hydration part that I needed alongside this moisturizing retinol,” she says. For people with sensitive or dry skin, it might cause irritation. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% 3. It is perfect for starting out with glycolic acid and don’t want to irritate your skin. I alternate The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution at night with a retinol serum. What’s more, it stimulates new blood vessels in the skin, so you can have that rosy complexion and natural glow. “Glycolic acid is a fruit acid that unclogs the pores and exfoliates the dead layers of the skin,” explains Virginia-based dermatologist Lily Talakoub, MD, noting that glycolic or AHAs melt away dead skin cells to resurface and smooth things out. See the CANE + AUSTIN Facial Moisture Cream which has a mild 10% glycolic acid solution. The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA 8. Retinol/Retinoid Peptides (non copper peptides can be used with retinol). You can also use it to fade scars or dark spots, even your skin tone, and lessen the effects of aging, such as dryness and wrinkles, by increasing collagen production. One study even showed an increased efficacy of glycolic acid used with retinol over retinol or glycolic acid alone. If it’s your first time to use this skin acid, use a lower concentration before increasing the strength. A pea-sized amount is more than enough. Can I use it every night … I am using tretinoin 0.5% and glycolic acid 20.0%. Get it daily. Glycolic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin. You can layer hyaluronic acid with everything especially if you're using anti ageing superstars like retinol, glycolic acid and Vitamin C. Adding hyaluronic acid to your skincare … Take a break. https://skincaregeeks.com/can-you-use-glycolic-acid-and-retinol-together Initially, I was nervous about having to choose between my beloved AHA serum and the shiny new A-Passioni 1.0 Retinol Cream ($74), but according to the brand’s founder Tiffani Masterson, there’s no need. While the once-novel maskne has gro. The timing of this revelation couldn’t be better, because as of today, Drunk Elephant, is now adding a retinol to their line. Can You Use Glycolic Acid and Vitamin C Together? Glycolic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin. This 7% toning solution offers mild exfoliation for improved skin radiance and visible clarity. The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% . Then if there is no irritation on the dry or sensitive skin, then you can mix or use together with retinol. If you prefer not to use a toner, … Like other AHAs, glycolic acid … I am using tretinoin 0.5% and glycolic acid 20.0%. Also, for an excellent facial moisture cream, take a look at our top pick, the CANE + AUSTIN Facial Moisture Cream with Glycolic Acid: Both glycolic acid and retinol have great potential to help your skin. I alternate The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution at night with a retinol serum. It may take longer for over-the-counter retinol to work. I must get my exfoliating fix somewhere and if a toner can do the job, awesome. Just ensure you are moisturizing well to keep your skin hydrated.”. Is StriVectin Cruelty-Free or Tested on Animals? If it becomes a little irritated or red after application, find the frequency of use that works best for you. I use the glycolic acid as a toner first before applying my water based serums. Pay attention to your skin’s reaction, and then re-introduce retinol back in your skincare routine to get the best possible results. Retinol does make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. 3The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution. To start, it’s safest to use alpha hydroxy acids (like glycolic) or beta hydroxy acids (like salicylic) twice a week, but not on the same nights that you use a retinol. Apply a moisturizer. Never leave it on your skin overnight. If it’s your first time with glycolic acid… While those with normal-to-oily skin are fine to give the coupling a go, if you’re on the drier or more sensitive side, start with a glycolic acid and give your skin time to adjust. One exception is … You can use glycolic acid (or other alpha hydroxy acids) and retinol together if you have oily or normal skin. Other things you need to remember when using retinol for your skin: See the StriVectin-AR Advanced Retinol Concentrated Serum for an advanced retinol formula that evens out skin tone and leaves a more radiant complexion. As Masterson proves, the most important thing to keep in mind when using two ingredients, is hydration, hydration, hydration. All rights reserved. Retinol is part of the retinoid family, which is a catch-all term for vitamin-A derivatives. After an early morning shower, I poured The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution ($8.70) onto a cotton swab and then applied the product to both … “Working them in together is complicated because they can both dry out the skin,” explains Dr. Talakoub, so you’re going to want to up your dose of hydration and really tune into what your skin is telling you. Wash your face, and then apply a gentle moisturizer. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2%. A minimum of 10-percent glycolic acid could be used daily or more than once per week. The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG 4. Both AHAs and BHAs exfoliate the skin surface, encouraging old dead skin cells to shed off, revealing fresh new skin underneath. To confirm, I asked Dr. Lily Talakoub, a Virginia-based dermatologist, who said “it can be effective to use glycolic acid and retinol together. This formula contains a studied Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative to help reduce irritation associated with acid use. Glycolic acid isn’t just great for unclogging your pores or preventing breakouts. Can you use glycolic acid and retinol together? Can … Other things you need to remember when using glycolic acid for your skin: Retinol is most effective when applied at night. ... With continued use, this glycolic acid-based toner improves the appearance of skin texture and dullness. Well, here’s the thing, there’s a similar effect that can be created when you mix together certain active skincare ingredients. © 2021-2022 Copyright SkinCareGeeks.com - We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Retinols, on the other hand, work to “re-epithelialize” the skin from beneath the surface, increasing the enzymes that produce collagen and elastin, which in turn, decreases wrinkles and helps the skin become more plump over time. The Ordinary Colours Serum Foundation with SPF 15 30ml. There are many precautions and tips to consider. Wear sunscreen. Please note that fragrances that have engraving/personalisation applied to them are not eligible for return or exchange. Mixing it and glycolic acid with the wrong skincare products or chemicals could make them useless, weak, or worse, cause severe skin reactions. The Ordinary Peeling Solution contains 30% alpha hydroxy acids, comprised of glycolic acid… HOW TO USE HYALURONIC ACID SERUM. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2% 6. Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly. Some of its possible side effects are irritation, minor burns. Retinol. Is Perricone MD Cruelty-Free or Tested on Animals? So, I absolutely fell in love with the Glycolic Acid toner and I started off using it 2x a week then every other night. Fortunately, you don't have to choose between these skincare ingredients. The formula also improves the appearance of skin texture with continued use. CA Do Not Sell My Personal Information     Sitemap redirect. She did caution anyone with dry or sensitive skin to avoid using glycolic acid and retinol together as it can be too harsh on their skin. You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cult-fave wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 5. We do not recommend combining Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid, Ethylated L-Ascorbic Acid … The Ordinary Buffet 7. Once this regimen has been maintained for weeks, you can begin a topical acid once weekly on a night you’re not using the retinoid. If the neutral pH was needed, the combined retinol and glycolic … Enter Email Address, Skip the Waiting Room—Here Are 5 Surprising Types of Appointments You Can Book Through Telehealth, This 15-Minute Neck-and-Shoulder Stretch Relieves Tension in Your Body and Mind, 5 Inexpensive Espresso Machines That Still Make a Real Mean Shot. Watch out … “If you’re doing great with that and have no irritation, then you can add in the retinol,” she explains. There are so many conflicting opinions about using the two together. Retinol can do serious damage if you don’t use it properly. “They work together and compliment each other and they allow each other to work better and do their job.”, In fact, Masterson herself rotates between them, mixing glycolic acid with marula oil one night and coupling a retinol with a mega-dose of hydration the next. Ah, retinol. By then, your skin has already adjusted to the acid and could probably handle a higher concentration. Glycolic acid and retinol have plenty of skin-boosting benefits. Why Retinol and Skin-Softening Hyaluronic Acid are a Match Made in Heaven Whether you’re trying to prevent aging or reverse it, retinol and hyaluronic acid are two of the … A good rule of thumb is to leave glycolic acid for not more than 2 or 3 minutes. She said after washing in the evening, you can apply your moisturizer, then apply the glycolic acid and retinol, and then finish with another thin layer of moisturizer. “So I started mixing it with the B-Hydra, and I just had such great results.”. So, can you use glycolic acid and retinol together? Whether you’re planning to use them together or alone, it’s important to know how to use them properly to get the results you want to achieve without damaging your skin in the process. Use retinol for not more than 3 to 4 months. https://www.wellandgood.com/can-glycolic-acid-and-retinol-be-used-together The two ingredients are often compared to one another, because they’re some of the most efficacious skin-care solutions out there, but they’re actually entirely different. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA. As a skin care ingredient, retinol shares some of the benefits of glycolic acid. "Retinol is an effective anti-aging ingredient, but can exacerbate skin dryness," explains Dr. Lortscher. Well+Good decodes and demystifies what it means to live a well life, inside and out. Start by using it two to three times every week. Best Acne Treatment for Sensitive Oily Skin – 13 Picks, 10 Best Cleansers for Sensitive Combination Skin, Coconut Oil for Old Scars – Acne and More, Best Moisturizer Ingredients for Face and Body. That’s what we’ll discuss in the next sections of this article. Can You Use Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid Together? Your email address will not be published. Especially if you’re using anti aging superstars like retinol, glycolic acid and Vitamin C. These antiaging superstars … “If after 4-6 weeks of use the skin is healthy with no signs of redness or scaling, then you can start to use … The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 2. Niaci Enzymes are highly sensitive to pH, for this reason, you are better off not using retinol with strong acids like glycolic acid and vitamin C. There is some controversy about this (see Paula Begoun), but it stands to reason, in my view, that it is best not … This is a good routine to follow for people who have sensitive skin. I must get my exfoliating fix somewhere and if a toner can do the job, awesome. I have learned this from my own experience with clients that glycolic and acid used together is fine for those with normal or oily skin. “For example, one would begin by using a small pea-sized amount of retinoid once a week, and wait to see how the skin reacts before moving to twice weekly and then three times weekly. It's fine to use either an AHA and retinol, or a BHA and retinol in one skincare routine. If your skin has no irritation, then you can try using together with retinol. For your morning routine these include: 1. They both renew and regenerate the skin and boost collagen production to get rid of age spots, fine lines, wrinkles, mild acne scarring, dry skin, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Like glycolic acid, don’t forget to do a skin patch test prior to full use. Here are some ingredients you should avoid mixing with glycolic acid: Here are some ingredients you should avoid mixing with retinol: You might be asking yourself right now, “How can I safely and effectively use glycolic acid or retinol in my skin care routine?”. Important: Read labels and instructions before use. Those with dry or sensitive skin may have trouble if they use them together. Read our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. There are enzymes involved in this step. Start with a 10-percent (or lower) glycolic acid solution. Enzymes are highly sensitive to pH , for this reason, you are better off not using retinol with strong acids like glycolic acid and vitamin C. How Long Does It Take for Retinol to Work? The Ordinary Buffet. Day 1: Fresh Start.