Skip to content
Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA)

Glycolic Acid

INCI: Glycolic Acid·Studied at 5–10% (leave-on)·Strong evidence

The smallest alpha hydroxy acid and the most-studied surface exfoliant, associated with the appearance of a smoother texture, brighter even tone and softened fine lines.

Studied for

  • ·The appearance of a smoother, more even surface
  • ·The look of brighter, more even tone
  • ·The appearance of softened fine lines

How it’s thought to work

Loosens the bonds between surface skin cells and is studied for association with the look of a fresher, more even surface; low pH drives it and it raises sun sensitivity, so daytime sunscreen matters.

Layering note

Often kept apart from: retinoids in the same layer for sensitive skin.

Questions

Do I need sunscreen with glycolic acid?
Yes. AHAs make skin more sensitive to sun, so daily sunscreen is part of using them. Skipping it undoes the look you are working toward and leaves skin more exposed.

Serums we’ve scored with Glycolic Acid

References