Can You Use Glycolic Acid With Retinol?

Can You Use Glycolic Acid With Retinol?

What is glycolic acid?

Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is commonly found in many skincare products. Glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliant that acts by gently exfoliating the top layer of the dermis, removing dead skin cells and other impurities to reveal a smoother and more radiant complexion. As a result, glycolic acid like this Botanic Tree exfoliating cleanser is often used to improve the appearance of aging skin, reduce the appearance of acne scars and blemishes, clogged pores, and even out skin tone.

 Glycolic acid

How often should you use glycolic acid?

There is no one "right" answer when it comes to how often you should use glycolic acid products, as the frequency and duration of use will depend on a number of factors, including whether you have sensitive skin, how your skin reacts to the specific product you are using, and any existing skincare regimens or concerns that you may have.

Generally speaking, it is best to incorporate glycolic acid based exfoliators 1-2 times per week to maintain healthy, glowing skin. However, you may need to adjust this frequency based on your individual needs and preferences.

What is Retinol?

Retinol or retinoic acid as its also known is a form of vitamin A that is commonly used in skincare products for its anti-aging properties. Retinol products such as this Botanic tree retinol cream for the face and eyes contain active ingredients that work by increasing skin cell turnover, stimulating collagen production, and improving skin texture. Some research has also shown that retinol can help with acne prone skin, dull skin, skin discoloration, sun damage, and other common skin concerns.

How often should you use Retinol?

Similar to glycolic acid, the frequency and duration of use for Retinol will depend on a number of factors, including whether you have dry or sensitive skin, the specific product you are using, and any existing skincare concerns that you may have.

Some people will find that using Retinol daily is best for them, while for others 1-2 times per week is sufficient for maintaining a healthy, youthful-looking complexion. However, it is important to note that you may need to introduce retinol slowly to minimize adverse reactions.

Retinol cream

Should glycolic acid be used together with Retinol in your skincare routine?

While there is some confusion over whether glycolic acid should be used together with Retinol a daily routine the answer is generally yes they can both be used on the same day, but not at the same time. This means using one in your morning skincare routine and the other in your evening skincare routine.

This is because both glycolic acid and Retinol are potent ingredients that can help with a range of skin concerns, including wrinkles, sun damage, acne, and hyperpigmentation. However, it is important to use these products correctly and in the right order in order to get the best results from them and avoid irritation.

Why you should not use glycolic acid and Retinol at the same time

Glycolic acid and Retinol can be used in your skin care routine on the same day, but not at the same time for several reasons.

Firstly, retinol can cause skin irritation and redness when used on its own, which means to apply retinol safely its best to use it at night when you don't need to apply makeup. Secondly, the two ingredients work in slightly different ways, so it is best to use them separately to get the maximum benefits. Lastly, everyone's skin type is different and while some will tolerate a combination of glycolic acid and Retinol, in others it can lead to increase irritation and redness.

What time of the day to use glycolic acid and Retinol?

Generally speaking, it is recommended to apply glycolic acid in the morning and then wait, apply retinol at night. This is because Retinol can trigger skin sun sensitivity.

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FAQs:

What goes first glycolic acid or retinol?

When using glycolic acid and Retinol together on the same day, it is generally recommended to use the glycolic acid first in the morning, and Retinol at night. This is because glycolic acid can help to remove dead skin and prep it for Retinol application, which may be more effective when applied after your skin has been prepped by other products.

Does glycolic acid cause peeling?

Yes, it is common to experience some peeling or flaking of the skin when using glycolic acid, especially in the first few weeks. However, this typically resolves over time as your skin adjusts and becomes more resilient to the exfoliating effects of glycolic acid.

What can you not mix with glycolic acid?

The main thing that you should not mix glycolic acid with is other exfoliating or harsh skincare ingredients, such as salicylic acid. This is because the combination of these products can increase your risk of skin irritation and inflammation.

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