Beauty Elixir

AHA

Glycolic Acid: what to mix it with

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.

Typical strength
5% – 10%
Best time
PM
Irritation
Price in India
₹400 – ₹2,000
Helps with
Texture, dullness, pigmentation and aging
Pregnancy
Generally considered safe in pregnancy

How to use Glycolic Acid

Use 2–3 nights a week after cleansing. Skip it on nights you use retinoids. Sunscreen is non-negotiable because AHAs raise sun sensitivity.

Pairs beautifully with

Hyaluronic Acid Ceramides Centella Asiatica Squalane Sunscreen Snail Mucin Panthenol Aloe Vera Urea Polyglutamic Acid

Use at different times from

Retinol Adapalene Vitamin C Lactic Acid Mandelic Acid Salicylic Acid PHA Benzoyl Peroxide Peptides Copper Peptides Tretinoin Retinal

Safe to layer with

Niacinamide Azelaic Acid Bakuchiol Tranexamic Acid Alpha Arbutin Kojic Acid Vitamin E Ferulic Acid Hydroquinone Sulfur Tea Tree Oil Licorice Extract Glutathione Zinc PCA

Guides

Ingredients for dark spots, tanning & pigmentationIngredients for fine lines & anti-ageingIngredients for dull skin & glowIngredients for uneven texture & bumps Is Glycolic Acid safe in pregnancy?

Glycolic Acid vs alternatives

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