Glycolic Acid vs Vitamin C
Both target dullness, pigmentation and aging. Here's how they differ, and whether you should pick one or use both.
| Glycolic Acid | Vitamin C | |
|---|---|---|
| Main job | Texture, dullness, pigmentation and aging | Pigmentation, dullness, antioxidant and aging |
| Typical strength | 5% – 10% | 10% – 20% |
| Best time | PM | AM |
| Irritation | ||
| Best for | Normal, Oily And Combination | Normal, Oily, Combination And Dry |
| Pregnancy | Safe | Safe |
| Price in India | ₹400 – ₹2,000 | ₹400 – ₹3,000 |
The verdict
Both are similarly gentle. Choose based on your main goal: Glycolic Acid for texture, dullness, pigmentation and aging, Vitamin C for pigmentation, dullness, antioxidant and aging.
Using both? Use with caution Pure vitamin C is already acidic. Layering Glycolic Acid on top lowers the pH further and raises the risk of stinging and irritation. Use vitamin C in the morning and Glycolic Acid at night. How to layer them →
Glycolic Acid in short
The smallest alpha-hydroxy acid, so it penetrates deepest. It dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells for smoother, brighter skin and fades marks, but it is the AHA most likely to sting.
Vitamin C in short
A powerful antioxidant that brightens dull skin, fades dark spots and boosts your sunscreen's protection against free radicals. Pure L-ascorbic acid works best at a low pH and oxidises (turns orange) quickly.
Not sure which fits your skin?
The routine builder picks actives for your skin type, concern and climate automatically.