Glycolic acid and retinol are powerful ingredients in the skincare world for improving skin health. They’re used for common skin concerns such as acne, fine lines and wrinkles, and dark spots.
But with two powerful and effective ingredients as these, you may be left wondering: can you use glycolic acid with retinol at the same time?
It’s not recommended to layer glycolic acid and retinol together. The two ingredients can cause skin irritation and dryness. However, there’s a certain way you can incorporate glycolic acid and retinol into your skincare routine to optimize their efficacy. Let’s explore best practices when using both to achieve glowing skin.
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What is Glycolic Acid?
Before diving into using glycolic acid and retinol together, let’s look at each ingredient individually.
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from natural sources like fruit [1]. Glycolic acid has the smallest molecular size of other AHAs, which helps deeply penetrate into the skin [2]. It works by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells to encourage cell turnover and renewal for a more radiant complexion.
The best use of glycolic acid is for dark spots and evening skin tone. It’s exfoliation properties can also help boost collagen production [3] and improve the skin’s overall texture. When used regularly, it can help restore skin's natural glow.
It commonly comes in the form of a toner, but the next question that comes to mind is how often should you apply glycolic acid? Luckily, PROVEN takes the guesswork out of skincare with customized formulas based on your skin needs. Your formula can include the right amount of glycolic acid in your day cream or night cream if you’re targeting hyperpigmentation and skin brightening.
What is Retinol?
Any person over the age of 25 should consider using retinol for its anti-aging properties. Derived from vitamin A, retinol helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It helps to regulate skin cell turnover and stimulate collagen production to make our skin smooth and supple [4]. It’s also has antioxidant properties, meaning it helps protect the skin from environmental damage and free radicals like the sun and UV rays [5].
By regulating skin cell turnover, it accelerates the skin renewal process. Additional retinol benefits include its ability to target dark spots, acne scars, and other forms of discoloration. It's no brainer why retinol is considered a Holy Grail product for a lot of people.
However, people with sensitive skin or acne-prone skin may experience skin purging from using retinol for the first time. PROVEN’s 3-step skincare set aims to reduce skin purging by starting with a low concentration of retinoids in your formula. We can gradually increase the amount once your skin is acclimated to the ingredient if your skin needs it.
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So, Can You Use Glycolic Acid With Retinol?
As we’ve learned, glycolic acid and retinol are two ingredients that have numerous benefits for the skin. They can work in synergy to give your skin a much-needed boost. The combination of exfoliation from glycolic acid and collagen stimulation and increased cell turnover from retinol can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, even your skin tone, and lessen the signs of skin aging. Additionally, they can improve skin hydration and prevent acne breakouts. However, it’s important to apply them properly to get the full benefits of each ingredient.
How to Use Glycolic Acid and Retinol Together
If you’re considering adding both glycolic acid and retinol to your skincare routine, be sure to alternate between each day of use. When using glycolic acid alongside vitamin A derivatives like retinol, it can lead to skin irritation and result in peeling or damaged skin barrier [6].
So if you’re using these two ingredients in your routine, you can apply glycolic acid on one day and follow up with retinol on the next day, or vice versa. If you’re using multiple skincare products, you can follow this routine:
1. Start by cleansing your skin with a gentle cleanser to clean your pores from dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Avoid using harsh soaps or physical scrubs that can cause microtears or irritation, which will be exacerbated by glycolic acid or retinol.
2. Gently apply a thin layer of glycolic acid, using circular motions and avoiding the eye area. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes to settle deep into your skin.
3. Seal the moisture into your skin with a moisturizer. If you’re going out in the daytime, remember to apply an SPF of 30 or higher. Glycolic acid can make your skin extra sensitive to UV rays.
The next day, repeat the same steps but replace the glycolic acid with retinol. It’s recommended to use actives during the night time so your skin can rest. Some skin types can handle using both products back to back. Other skin types may need a rest day with no actives to maintain a healthy skin barrier. You should visit a board-certified dermatologist if you experience any irritation, redness, or itching.
Luckily, PROVEN already factors what active ingredients can/cannot mix together so you don’t have to worry about stressing out your skin. Each custom formula has the right ingredients and concentration to effectively clear and nourish your skin.
Achieve Your Best Skin With PROVEN
Using ingredients like AHAs and retinoids can offer many beneficial skincare results. When used properly, they can be a powerful combination to help exfoliate, target signs of aging, boost collagen production, and even out skin tone. Ultimately, there are other ingredients that can be key to targeting certain skin conditions.
If you’re looking to create a customized skincare regimen that will aid in addressing skin conditions, PROVEN Skincare is here to help. With the help of our AI technology and in partnership with dermatologists, you can create a tailored skincare plan that’s unique to your skin’s needs. Learn more about how you can achieve the best results possible for your skin.
