Treating hyperpigmentation usually requires the combination of multiple skin-brightening ingredients among which retinol and glycolic acid. While these can deliver incredible results, they are potent actives that have the potential to damage the skin if used incorrectly. Today’s guide will focus on how to safely pair these actives without damaging your skin.
Can You Use Glycolic Acid With Retinol?
How Can You Safely Combine Glycolic Acid And Retinol In Your Routine?
Depending on your level of familiarity with using skincare actives, there are various ways to use retinol and glycolic acid together.
For newbies, the best way to start is by introducing one product containing one active at a time and low percentages. For glycolic acid starting with a rinse of product with a concentration of 5% or below is a good place to start. Exfoliating not more than 3x a week. Once you are certain your skin tolerates glycolic acid, you can introduce retinol starting at 0.01% - 0.03% concentration, layering it every other night.
For more experienced skincare junkies, higher percentages of either active can be used as tolerated. However, it remains important not to apply one over the other within the same routine.
To avoid the risk of irritation, it is best to space out each active in your routine. Exfoliate in the mornings and use retinol treatments at night. For sensitive skin types, avoid using both on the same day but rather alternate between them on different days.
Whichever method you go for, do not forget to hydrate your skin adequately and wear sunscreen to reinforce your skin barrier, build your tolerance, and mitigate side effects.
Studies have shown that both glycolic acid and retinol boost collagen production, and smoothen and brighten the skin as such pairing these actives, especially for acne-prone skin can be very beneficial. Below are a few things to consider before blending these actives.
What Should You Consider When Using Glycolic Acid And Retinol Together?
Always patch-test potent skincare products before applying them to your skin.
Ideally do not exfoliate your skin more 3x a week (unless your skin is extremely rough and/or oily under medical supervision.)
Do not layer both actives over the other in the same routine.
Seek medical advice from a dermatologist if you are trying to treat acne with both actives.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Glycolic Acid And Retinol Together?
Brightening Properties
Glycolic acid and retinol both improve skin discoloration although in different ways. Retinol stimulates and quickens the formation of new skin cells causing the skin to renew itself faster revealing smoother and brighter skin. Glycolic acid on the other hand loosens the bonds that hold dead skin cells together causing dead skin cells to shed faster revealing brighter and smoother skin underneath.
Anti-aging benefits
Both actives play a role in stimulating collagen production in the skin for plumper and more youthful-looking skin. Glycolic acid targets and improves signs of photoaging induced by UV exposure. Retinol equally increases the production of collagen by increasing the production of fibroblasts that make up collagen fibres and elastin. This results in firmer and more bouncy skin.
Anti-acne Benefits
By exfoliating the skin glycolic acid prevents pores from getting clogged by dead skin cells that can foster acne-causing bacteria when trapped. Retinol on the other hand accelerates the speed at which new skin cells form pushing out the gunk trapped within the pores unclogging them. Both actions help smoothen texture irregularities like blemishes and acne scars.
Which Is Better For Hyperpigmentation Between Retinol And Glycolic Acid?
When it comes to hyperpigmentation retinol is more effective at evening out the skin tone because its action occurs at a deeper level. It can slow down the overproduction of melanin in the skin triggered by inflammation. It also works on the surface level of the skin by accelerating the renewal of skin cells. Retinol will work best on discolouration caused by acne scarring, sun exposure or even hormonal pigmentation like melasma.
Glycolic acid, on the other hand, works only on the surface of the skin by shedding dead skin cells that cause skin dullness, or by breaking down surface-level discolouration like acne scars.
While each active has its strongholds, hyperpigmentation is best treated by combining multiple actives that work in different ways. This means you will get better results by combining both. If you have oily/acne-prone skin retinol will be best for you, while glycolic acid can benefit all skin types it is particularly best for dry skin because it equally improves skin hydration.
What Are The Differences Between Retinol And Glycolic Acid?
Retinol and glycolic acid mainly differ in their distinct molecular mechanisms and the role they play.
Molecular Differences
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that penetrates the skin deeply and, once converted to retinoic acid, influences cellular processes such as collagen production and cell turnover. Its molecule is relatively small, allowing it to penetrate effectively, especially in lipid layers of the skin.
Glycolic Acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane, is the smallest AHA molecule, making it highly effective at penetrating the skin's surface. It works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells on the outer layer, thus encouraging exfoliation.
Roles In Skincare
Retinol is primarily used for anti-aging purposes as it boosts collagen production, increases cell turnover, and improves skin elasticity, making it beneficial for reducing wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.
Glycolic Acid serves as a chemical exfoliant, loosening dead skin cells to reveal a fresher, smoother layer beneath. It improves skin texture, reduces pore congestion, and can help with hyperpigmentation and mild acne.
Side Effects And Suitability for Different Skin Types
Retinol may cause dryness, redness, irritation, and peeling, especially for sensitive skin types or new users. It’s often recommended to start with lower concentrations and gradually increase. Retinol may also make the skin more sensitive to the sun, so SPF is crucial.
Glycolic Acid can irritate, especially for sensitive skin types, as it lowers the skin’s pH. However, it is often gentler than retinol and may be more suitable for sensitive or dry skin types looking to improve texture and radiance. Like retinol, it also increases sun sensitivity, so sunscreen is essential.
Overall, retinol is ideal for anti-aging, while glycolic acid is better suited for surface exfoliation and texture improvement. Users with sensitive skin might prefer glycolic acid, while those aiming to address deeper lines and wrinkles could benefit more from retinol.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can You Use Glycolic Acid With Retinol
Can You Mix Retinol And Glycolic Acid?
It is not advisable to mix retinol and glycolic acid because both require different pH levels to function properly. Their high potency may induce irritations to the skin as such should always be used separately, especially on sensitive skin.
How Do You Use Glycolic Acid And Retinol In A Routine?
It is best to alternate between your retinol and glycolic acid treatments in your routine. Retinol is best applied at night while glycolic acid can be used in the morning with sunscreen.
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