In a study conducted on 33 women with a mean age of 55.5 years who had significant sun damage like age spots, freckles and other skin discolorations. It will remove all the oils from the skin, making it easier for an AHA acid such as glycolic acid to completely cleanse and exfoliate the skin. Take note that retinol should not be mixed with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or vitamin C since skin irritation may result. Stuti Bhattacharya. Salicylic Acid; TCA Peel; Phenol Peel; Monday, 30 November 2020. Studies also show Glycolic acid prevents skin from over-producing oil, and helps to fade old acne marks and scars. Your GRAZIA newsletter is on its way. Glycolic Acid How it works: “Glycolic acid is the most researched of the alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Glycolic acid face peels are a more desired peel for anti-aging and for those who desire an even skin tone, while salicylic acid face peels are a better choice for people who experience acne, blemishes or acne scarring. You can always increase frequency later on if you really need to. That's why those with sensitive skin don't always tolerate it well. Should Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid Be Used Together or Separately? This type of leave-on exfoliant can be alternated with BHA (beta hydroxy acid, or salicylic acid) if so desired. In addition to exfoliating skin, glycolic acid also helps bind moisture to skin’s surface and can stimulate collagen production for noticeably firmer skin. The Lactic acid is less irritating and more moisturizing than the Glycolic, and the Lactic can be used at a slightly higher concentration than the Glycolic, because it is not as irritating. Hyaluronic Acid has one thing in common with glycolic and lactic acids. These peels also possess anti-oxidant and skin … AHA = glycolic acid, lactic acid. Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that’s gentle on the skin. Glycolic acid clears away dead skin cells, so they don’t hang around to clog pores and cause a breakout. It’s relation to asprin (acetylsalicylic acid) gives salicylic acid its anti-inflammatory properties, which can be exceptionally helpful for acne-prone skin.” Who it works for: “Salicylic acid is best for normal to oily or combination skin that’s prone to breakouts, clogged pores, blackheads, enlarged pores, and redness. It’s said to be one of the safest AHAs for the skin. Found in: 35% Professional Strength Glycolic Acid Peel. Plus, it's able to attract moisture from the air into the skin, keeping it well hydrated. Lactic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid(AHA) while Salicylic acid is a type of beta-hydroxy acid(BHA). Found in: 35% Professional Strength Glycolic Acid Peel Lactic Acid What it is: An Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) usually derived from the fermentation of milk. Standard ingredients in a chemical peel are alpha hydroxy acids (think: lactic acid, glycolic acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, and citric acid) along with the beta hydroxy acid acne-prone skin is all too familiar with: salicylic acid. Quote; Share this post. Glycolic acid (GA) peel, an AHA, has been widely used for pigmentary dyschromias and acne, 3-8 but few studies have evaluated GA peels in dark skins, including Asian patients. Out of salicylic acid and glycolic acid, which one is better for sensitive, acne-prone skin? Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are both types of hydroxy acids primarily used for skin exfoliation. Glycolic Acid vs. Salicylic Acid. Ensure that your home face peel is performed safely and provides the results you desire by always following the directions. Unlike glycolic and lactic acids, salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid. It dissolves the “glue” that keeps dead skin cells attached to the surface and infuses skin with the moisture it steals from the environment. Lactic acid does everything glycolic acid does, but just a bit slower because it’s a little bit larger, which slightly reduces its ability to penetrate skin’s outermost layer. Anyone with oily and acne-prone skin who wants to clear up and prevent breakouts. Salicylic acid comes in strengths from 0.5% to 2% over-the-counter. But how does it exfoliate the skin? Learn everything there is to know about AHAs and BHAs (glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, and fruit acids), and which skin-care products you should try. I also never had trouble with lactic acid, nor with the Paula's Choice salicylic acid products. They can do wonders for the skin, but you need to use them with care: Start small: At first, use small concentrations (7-12%) to give your skin time to get used to them and increase them gradually (our professional peels can all be diluted). It is well suited for skin showing signs of aging and breakouts at the same time, and is a good, gentle option for sensitive skin. SHOP NOW, Salicylic Acid How it works: “Salicylic acid, also known as beta hydroxy acid or BHA, is a triple-threat exfoliating ingredient that can unclog pores, reduce redness, and help reduce acne-causing bacteria. Lactic acid and salicylic acid are considered as a chemical exfoliant that will remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture. SHOP NOW Paula’s Choice, Clear Extra Strength Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution with 2% Salicylic Acid. Your email address will not be published. (1x) Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA): Gluconolactone (GUL). It can help with skin care issues such as acne, skin texture, hyperpigmentation, and the effects of aging. 2901 W. Coast Hwy., # 200, Newport Beach, CA 92663. Found in: 40% Lactic Acid Peel Professional Strength. SHOP NOW Philosophy, Miracle Worker Cleanser Mask, $45. Simply put… it has the most advantages and the fewest disadvantages. It has the smallest molecular weight among AHAs which means that it is better able to penetrate the skin and can be more effective. October 31, 2016 This chemical peel penetrates the outer layer of skin cells, known as the epidermis, and breaks the bonds of dull, dead skin cells to reveal the … Lactic acid and salicylic acid can be used together in your skincare routine. Chemical exfoliants that include glycolic acid and lactic acid (AHAs) and salicylic acid and its derivatives (BHAs). Lactic acid is AHA, but much milder than the glycolic acid, thus preferred for sensitive skin types. Glycolic acid is created from the alpha hydroxy acid group that is a natural occurring acid found in citrus, apples, grapes and sugar cane. May be slightly drying for people with dry and sensitive skin types. Glycolic Acid Vs. Lactic Acid by Dr. Diana Howard One of the most frequently requested services in skin treatment centers is still chemical exfoliation. And in this trigger-happy age of non-invasive treatments, lunchtime lasers and needles on call, we tend to forget that the real results come from what you use at home, everyday and every night. Medium depth peels are most commonly performed with glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), or Jessner’s solution, which is a mixture of lactic acid, salicylic acid, and an … But glycolic and all salicylic products from makers other than Paula's Choice have not agreed with me; I get red, irritated, and extremely flaky. From hydrating and plumping to exfoliating and pore-shrinking – targeting your complexion concern with the correct acid will not only boost your skin’s health now, but slow down signs of aging over time. She added that for at-home use, lactic acid products should be about 10 percent or less, with a pH of around 3.5 to 4. Lactic acid and salicylic acid are considered as a chemical exfoliant that will remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture. Other BHA or AHA peels treat one or two skin symptoms only. Face packs prepared from pineapple, papaya (rich in papain), orange, pomegranate, strawberry, tomato, lemon (rich in citric acid), sour curd (rich in lactic acid), sugarcane juice (rich in glycolic acid) have peeling properties. BACKGROUND Many clinicians have used glycolic acid (GA) peels for facial acne, scarring, and hyperpigmentation, mainly in lighter skin types. Some acids are not recommended for use during pregnancy and nursing. Salicylic acid is the most common BHA. Both glycolic acid and lactic acid can help reverse skin darkening that are superficial like sun tans or with tinted tanning lotions by removing top layers of skin to reveal new skin that is your natural and original skin … Salicylic acid on the other hand does what it says on the tin. SHOP NOW Mario Badescu, Glycolic Foaming Cleanser, $23. #acne . While they are similar in their overall purpose to exfoliate the skin, they have distinct differences that distinguish them from each other. In a pH-correct formula, lactic acid exfoliates cells on the surface of skin by breaking down the material that holds skin cells together. We asked skin expert, and founder of Paula’s Choice, Paula Begoun. Anyone with sun-damaged skin who wants to reduce wrinkles and dark spots. Lactic acid vs glycolic acid for hyperpigmentation. Ole Henriksen, Lemon Strip Flash Peel, $64. Answer: Glycolic Vs. Salicylic Acid - Which Peel is Better for Acne? Glycolic acid is a water-soluble alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is derived from sugar cane. No, it doesn’t exfoliate skin, too. Using salicylic acid is recommended for pimples, blackheads and whiteheads since it penetrates deep down into the pores, targeting acne at the root. eCollection 2019. Glycolic acid works by itself well, for targeting the skin surface. She doesn’t use it very often on the face as it’s so mild — but its mildness does make it perfect for those with sensitive skin. P.IVA 08009080964. Link to post Share on other sites. Whether you're dealing with acne, dullness or sun damage, there's an acid that can save the day and give you the flawless and glowy complexion of your dreams (and without the burning too!). It exfoliates skin, hydrates it and boosts collagen production. Lactic, glycolic, salicylic, oh my! Like glycolic acid, lactic acid is found in a variety of products, such as: ... Salicylic acid. timmoore 0 . Salicylic acid is a mild acid that works as a keratolytic agent it encourages the sloughing of dead skin cells. Unlike AHAs, beta hydroxy acids bind to oil, not water. When properly formulated (meaning in a product whose pH is between 3 and 4 for optimal effectiveness), glycolic acid gently “unglues” and helps skin shed built-up … Good for: unclogging pores for oily and acne-prone skin. If you prefer the latter, then the 2-percent concentration of salicylic acid in this gentle facial exfoliant is ideal for unclogging and reducing enlarged pores, exfoliating dead skin cells, and smoothing out wrinkles and fine lines. They help reduce hyperpigmentation, increase collagen synthesis, and work well for dry skin types. Once or twice a week is more than enough (if you have sensitive skin, stick to one). Glycolic Acid Vs Salicylic Acid || Dark spot, Hyper pigmentation, Skin Whitening, Chemical Peeling #glycolicacid #salicylicacide #glycolic #saliclylic #chrmicalpeeling #glyco6 … Glycolic acid (GA) peel, an AHA, has been widely used for pigmentary dyschromias and acne, 3-8 but few studies have evaluated GA peels in dark skins, including Asian patients. Both AHAs and BHAs exfoliate the skin surface, encouraging old dead skin cells to shed off, revealing fresh new skin underneath. Peeling, redness, itching, dryness, and flaking of skin are some of the side-effects that people may likely experience after using retinol, but these effects will go away after a couple of weeks. Theyre the miracle tools used to fight acne, wrinkles, age spots, scarring, and uneven skin tone. Glycolic acid is probably the most well-known and commonly used AHA and is made from the sugar cane plant. Giorgia G. Caution Oh, there's more. Essentially, what they do is exfoliate skin cells by breaking down the substance in skin that holds skin cells together. Salicylic–mandelic acid combination peels (SMPs) are a newer modality, and there have been no well‐controlled … Chemical exfoliants that include glycolic acid and lactic acid (AHAs) and salicylic acid and its derivatives (BHAs). An Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) usually derived from the fermentation of milk. Lactic acid also has water-binding properties and, like the more commonly used glycolic acid, may help lighten skin discolourations and can visibly firm skin as it renews its smooth texture.”, Who it works for: “Lactic acid in strengths between 5—8% is suitable for all skin types, including breakout-prone skin, but best for those with normal to dry, dehydrated, sun-damaged skin. Before all that, you have to know where to start. An AHA peel means the peel is derived from fruit acids. Other alpha-hydroxy acids include lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, and citric acid. which peel to choose. When properly formulated (meaning in a product whose pH is between 3 and 4 for optimal effectiveness), glycolic acid gently “unglues” and helps skin shed built-up layers of dull, dead skin cells that can make skin look older. Alpha and Beta Hydroxi Acids, or AHA’s and BHA’s. This product also contains Lactic Acid, Prickly Pear and Lemongrass, all of which combine to brighten, reduce inflammation and clarify the skin. It isn’t necessary to use an AHA exfoliant with lactic acid and one with glycolic acid, though some products combine these ingredients to great effect.”, Ole Henriksen, Lemon Strip Flash Peel, $64. You are asking whether the alpha-hydroxy acid, Glycolic acid, or the beta hydroxy acid, salicylic acid is superior. All rights reserved. Found in: 30% Salicylic Acid Peel Professional Strength, 2% Salicylic Acid Gel What Else You Need To Know Acids are pretty powerful stuff. Peeling, redness, itching, dryness, and flaking of skin are some of the side-effects that people may likely experience after using retinol, but these effects will … As with glycolic acid, the effect is sustained over months and years of treatment, with gradual and continued improvement in fine lines and wrinkles being the characteristic benefit. Exfoliating acids in skincare … Any time people start discussing the best ways to exfoliate their skin, it’s not long before the ingredients glycolic acid (AHA) and salicylic acid (BHA) are brought up. When choosing a glycolic or lactic acid peel, consider the desired effects and your skin's current condition 1. I’ve reviewed the glycolic acid version of this. © 2020 Mondadori Media S.p.A. All rights reserved. Which One Should You Use? Here are the best acids of the bunch and how they can take you to skincare heaven: A naturally occurring Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) derived from plants and vegetables rich in sugar, such as sugarcane and beets. Glycolic Acid is a smaller molecule so it can penetrate the skin more deeply to declog the pores and remove more layers of dead skin than Lactic Acid, which in turn diminishes the appearance of fine lines. There are several different kinds. They can do wonders for the skin, but you need to use them with care: Start small: At first, use small concentrations (7-12%) to give your skin time to get used to them and increase them gradually (our professional peels can all be diluted). The skin cells that peel off are naturally replaced with new ones." Like the other two acids, Hyaluronic Acid draws moisture from the air into the skin and binds it there. 9 Salicylic–mandelic acid peel (SMP) is a newer combination peel that combines the properties of a BHA and an AHA. Glycolic and lactic acid are examples of two types of alpha hydroxy acids, which also are known as AHAs 1. Glycolic acid and lactic acid are alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and while there are also acids like malic, citric and tartaric, the most effective and well-researched ones are glycolic and lactic acids. The investigators concluded that pyruvic acid and a salicylic and glycolic acid mixture “can be successfully used to improve skin hydration as well as reduce the number of blackheads, excessive activity of sebaceous glands, and hyperpigmentation.” Reference. So, you not only get the result you want, you also get smoother skin. That's why those with sensitive skin don't always tolerate it well. But with so many acids on the market, it can seem overwhelming to remember which to use and for what and which products to buy. Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid, when used in combination, are a very effective preventative treatment for acne. 10 Grown-Up Hand Wash Alternatives To Aesop, Isolation Skin Is A Thing. (DW, it's free!). This peel includes glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, citric acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, gallic acid, ellagic acid and salicylic acid, among others. Plus, it has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the redness that always comes along with pimples. They can work effectively when using them separately, on their own, provided that they are applied properly. Skin, Dry Skin, Younger Skin, Great Skin, Anti-aging, Dewy Skin, Skin Tone, Oily Skin. Follow. Like Glycolic Acid, it exfoliates and hydrates skin. Higher concentrations will deliver more acid to the skin but come with the price of being more irritation and sun-sensitizing. via Bianca di Savoia 12 - 20122 Milano Just like hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid is also naturally occurring in the body. 9 Salicylic–mandelic acid peel (SMP) is a newer combination peel that combines the properties of a BHA and an AHA. Glycolic Acid vs Salicylic Acid: Which Is Better For Your Skin? Everyone can use it. Lactic acid is the gentlest of all AHAs, so it's perfect for sensitive skin. The efficacy of glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene vs adapalene monotherapy in mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris: a double-blinded within-person comparative study Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. Here’s How To Deal, Baby It’s Cold Outside, And You Probably Need A Face Oil, How To Hydrate Your Skin In -3 Degrees, According To A Beauty Editor. This can be wonderful for older, sun-damaged skin because sun damage causes skin to lose its ability to naturally exfoliate cells as it did when we were young. Essentially, what they do is exfoliate skin cells by breaking down the substance in … The acid molecules are small, making them ideal for penetrating the skin. SHOP NOW, topics: Dropping acid on your skin may sound like the worst possible thing you can do, but the acids in your lotions and potions are stellar multi-tasking heroes that can tackle any skincare woe. Salicylic acid, but you can also use glycolic acid for a more thorough treatment. Products are proudly made in the USA. Copyright © 2020 Babyface. In one study, a group of 20 Indian patients with melasma were treated with glycolic acid peel. Should you consider chemical peels? Alongside these benefits, the smoothing, exfoliating action of this ingredient helps reduce multiple signs of aging as it shrinks enlarged pores. Likewise, salicylic acid is excellent for deeper layers of the skin. But if you're dealing with sun damage or acne, you may find other acids more beneficial. Thank you for contacting our office!Glycolic and Salicylic are both treatable acids for acne concerns.Salicylic acid is a BHA (beta Hydroxy acid) which is a oil soluble acid that penetrates deeper then any other acid to treat acne. (2x) Salicylic Acid Family (SAF): Salicylic Acid (SA), and Lipohydroxy Acid (LHA). What it does: Like Glycolic Acid, it exfoliates and hydrates skin. SHOP NOW Ultraceuticals, Even Skintone Serum Mild, $99. Glycolic Acid How it works: “Glycolic acid is the most researched of the alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). It hydrates it. If you experience redness and irritation: You're either using a concentration that's too high for your skin to tolerate or using it too often. Key Ingredients. The technical term for this is humectant. Paula’s Choice, Clear Extra Strength Anti-Redness Exfoliating Solution with 2% Salicylic Acid. That means Paula’s Choice offers that choice between glycolic acid and salicylic acid. It exfoliates both the skin and the pores, getting rid of blackheads, whiteheads, and acne. Sure you can dip your toe in here and there, read the recaps or ask a friend to give you the cliff’s notes, but you won’t reap full benefits of what it has to offer until you learn the back-story and immerse yourself in the intricacies. Salicylic Acid Vs. Glycolic Acid: I Have Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin And Here’s My Review . Malic acid is made from acids found in fruits such as apples. This is an at-home treatment that shouldn’t require any downtime. peels, "Acids don't work like retinoids, which repair skin by kick … chemical peel, Found in: 30% Salicylic Acid Peel Professional Strength, 2% Salicylic Acid Gel. Other alpha-hydroxy acids include lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, and citric acid. Lactic acid has been in the use of skin care for ages; the much-celebrated beauty icon Cleopatra use to apply sour milk that contains lactic acid. Why? Acids are pretty powerful stuff. SHOP NOW Lancôme, Exfoliance Clarté, $59. Hyaluronic Acid: For Serious Moisture. | It, too, works by effectively loosening the cement-like substance that connects dead skin cells and makes your complexion look dull and unrefined. Wear sunscreen: Peels can make skin more susceptible to sun damage, so always apply sunscreen afterwards (yes, even in winter!). Glycolic acid is an AHA derived from sugar cane, according to LaraChem Inc 1 2. Why it works: Same as Glycolic. BHA = salicylic acid, a common ingredient in products labeled anti-acne you find at drugstores. Glycolic Acid vs Salicylic Acid (Alpha Hydroxyl vs Beta Hydroxyl) - Why do we make Glycolic Acid as our Dominant Approach? It dissolves the “glue” that holds skin cells together, so they can easily slough off and reveal the brighter, smoother and more even-toned skin underneath. Take a step back and use a smaller dose less often. Acne, Lactic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid(AHA) while Salicylic acid is a type of beta-hydroxy acid(BHA). Chemical Peels: Glycolic Acid vs. Lactic Acid vs. Salicylic Acid. Alpha-hydroxy acids are a group of acid compounds, most often derived from plant-based sources. Anti-Aging, Both AHAs and BHAs exfoliate the skin surface, encouraging old dead skin cells to shed off, revealing fresh new skin underneath. As the most well-known and studied HA, you always hear that GA is great for “exfoliating” the skin. Salicylic acid is a Beta Hydroxy Acid which works on deep level, deeper than lactic acid, to fight the appearance of blemishes. NIP + FAB, Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads, $34.99. Join our VIP Club for exclusive giveaways and members only events. Lactic acid is made from sour milk and is considered to be a milder peel than glycolic acid 1. Standard ingredients in a chemical peel are alpha hydroxy acids (think: lactic acid, glycolic acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, and citric acid) along with the beta hydroxy acid acne-prone skin is all too familiar with: salicylic acid. They gently peel off or more precisely exfoliate your skin, thus showing small improvement on repeated usage. This acid has a dual exfoliating action: dissolves the “glue” that holds skin cells together on the surface of the skin and penetrates inside the pores, unclogging them from within. Glycolic acid and lactic acid are alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and while there are also acids like malic, citric and tartaric, the most effective and well-researched ones are glycolic and lactic acids. Because it offers the client instant results and is still affordable, especially when you compare it to laser and other types of treatments being offered in doctors’ offices. Glycolic acid treats many… at once. SHOP NOW NIP + FAB, Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads, $34.99. The major difference in structure lies in the fact that salicylic acid has a benzene ring, while lactic acid is a linear molecule. For example, ASDM Beverly Hills acne cleanser with salicylic acid and lactic acid typically receive high marks from people with aging combination skin, and those with sensitive skin tend to like it, too. | One causes sun sensitivity, and can worsen blemishes, while the other is gentler but takes longer to work. Ultraceuticals, Even Skintone Serum Mild, $99. by Significance . Website design by Boutique by Design, development by Blue Mountain Studio. Glycolic acid is an AHA derived from sugar cane, according to LaraChem Inc 1 2. Skincare is kind of like a Game of Thrones plotline. A study published in Dermatologic Surgery last year compared the two types of peels and gave the nod to the salicylic acid peel. Avoid salicylic acid with products that contain niacinamide. Function That's why it's so good at treating and preventing breakouts and blemishes. Glycolic acid vs lactic acid skin lightening. All rights reserved. A salicylic acid and lactic acid face wash isn’t for everyone. Please note, comments must be approved before they are published. The one advantage that salicylic acid does have over lactic acid or glycolic acid … Anyone with dry skin who could use some extra moisture. If you're pregnant: Talk with your doctor before adding acids to your skincare routine. This type of leave-on exfoliant can be alternated with BHA (beta hydroxy acid, or salicylic acid) if so desired.”, Paula’s Choice, Resist Weekly Resurfacing Treatment with 10% AHA, $45. It is one of the most well-known and widely used alpha-hydroxy acids in the skincare industry. Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment; The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%; Malic Acid. A notable difference between glycolic acid and mandelic acid products is the lack of skin irritation. As the name suggests, it’s mainly found in fruit and it’s usually derived from sugar cane. Can improve dullness, rough texture, hydration, hyperpigmentation and signs of aging. Same as Glycolic. 2019 Feb 19;12:151-161. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S193730. However, the reactivity of both molecules will come from the carboxylic acid group, which is free and open to change around with other molecules. You are here: Home Glycolic Acid vs. Lactic Acid. Glycolic acid shows good results when use to exfoliate and remove fine lines, wrinkles, and melasma, all issues that can show up with excessive sun exposure and aging. A naturally occurring Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) derived from willow bark (the same plant that gives us aspirin). In this case I am going to have to go with the Beta dog, sal acid. Lactic acid and salicylic acid can be used together in your skincare routine. Again, you just have to be your own guinea pig. Which hydroxi acid is right for you. Lactic acid is said to work best at a lower pH, Emma Hobson, education manager for Dermalogica and the International Dermal Institute, told Harper’s Bazaar in 2018. Don’t use glycolic acid or lactic acid in combination with ascorbic acid (vitamin C). So I purchased a bottle of 90 percent lactic acid, mixed it with my 15% glycolic acid and 2% salicylic acid lotion and use small portions mixed with the kp exfoliating lotion and it’s been a couple months and I wash with (sal3) soap which has salicylic acid and sulfur. Glycolic Acid. If you use glycolic or lactic acid, try to start with a formula that has pH closer to 4 not to irritate the top protective layer of the skin and 5% concentration of acid for daily use. Glycolic Acid vs. Lactic Acid. Because salicylic acid is oil-soluble, it can penetrate into the pore lining to break up clogs at their source, while also exfoliating dead, dull cells on skin’s surface. Mario Badescu, Glycolic Foaming Cleanser, $23. Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA), a group of acids referred to as ‘fruit acids’. Lactic acid does everything glycolic acid does, but just a bit slower because it’s a little bit larger, which slightly reduces its ability to penetrate skin’s outermost layer. Take note that retinol should not be mixed with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or vitamin C since skin irritation may result. Both lactic and glycolic acid can help improve hyperpigmentation from photodamage (sun damage) or acne scars because they help speed up skin cell turnover and reveal new skin underneath. Consider this your skin acid cheat sheet. Salicylic acid is best used as a first step in a daily or weekly exfoliation process. Its small size is a double-edged sword: it allows it to get deeper into the skin, but that also makes it more irritating than other AHAs. Don't overdo it: Peels aren't for daily use. First on your curriculum? It is one of the most well-known and widely used alpha-hydroxy acids in the skincare industry. People with severe acne find that it doesn’t seem as strong as other products. HYALURONIC ACID. Which one is better for sun damage – Glycolic acid or salicylic acid? For best results, look for products with a 1—2% concentration for daily use.”, Glamglow, Supermud Clearing Treatment, $98. Its small size (it's the smallest of all the AHAs) allows it to easily penetrate deep into the skin, where it can stimulate the cells to produce more skin-firming collagen. Related: AHAs VS BHA: Which One Should You Choose? (1x) Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA): Glycolic Acid (GA). This tiny molecule helps lubricate joints and keep skin plump, … Lactic acid is the rare acid that’s a moisturizing exfoliant. Dr. Wexler explains that it’s a milder version of glycolic that’s great for smoothing the skin, whether it be on your legs or your face. Glycolic Acid (72) Lactic Acid (90) Malic Acid (134) Tartaric Acid (150) Mandelic Acid (152) Citric Acid (192) Glycolic Acid. Just remember not to use them both simultaneously! SHOP NOW Lactic Acid How it works: “Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) extracted from milk, although most forms used in cosmetics are synthetic because that form is easier to formulate with and stabilise. our professional peels can all be diluted, 35% Professional Strength Glycolic Acid Peel, 40% Lactic Acid Peel Professional Strength, 30% Salicylic Acid Peel Professional Strength. Can improve dullness, rough texture, hydration, hyperpigmentation and signs of aging. Glycolic acid is a water-soluble alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is derived from sugar cane. The most common BHA for skin care is salicylic acid, which works as a deep exfoliator in your skin. It also helps to ramp up vital substances skin needs to look and feel smooth, soft, and supple.”, Who it works for: “Glycolic acid in strengths between 5—10% is suitable for all skin types, including breakout-prone skin, but best for those with normal to dry, dehydrated, sun-damaged skin. Even the Supersensitive Can Use Them. Lactic acid is generally less irritating than glycolic acid and, due to its moisturizing properties, may be more suitable for those with dry skin. Proceed with caution. Philosophy, Miracle Worker Cleanser Mask, $45.