Utilizing Glycolic Acid and Retinol Simultaneously: A Guide for Effective Skin Care Combination
Put Down that Skin Care Routine, We've Got the Scoop on Using Retinol and Glycolic Acid
Listen up, skin junkies: We've got the lowdown on how to slay that skin care routine with retinol and glycolic acid. Here's what the science says about these bad boys.
Retinol and Glycolic Acid Showdown
What's the beef?
Glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliant, threw in cleansers, masks, peels, and serums, that evicts dead skin cells, evening out skin tone.
Retinol is like the 'roid rage of vitamin A treatments, stimulating collagen production, cell turnover, and helping to lower those pesky fine lines and acne.
Can I use both of these bitches together?
Yes, you can definitely layer on these skincare components. Just don't go blending them like a crazy person, buddy. Use 'em at different times of the day or week. Don't wanna turn your mug into an itchy, red, irritated mess!
Why Glycolic Acid (wink wink)
Glycolic acid is a member of the AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) family, made from sugar cane. It plays the role of a chemical exfoliant by sloughing off dead skin cells, even out skin tone, and treat pigmentation. Score that luminous glow, boo!
How Do I Use Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid can be found in chemical peels, but it's also hiding in cleansers, masks, and serums.
FYI: Glycolic acid dudes are acids, so it's unusual to spot it above 30 percent in over-the-counter goods. But your dermatologist can throw Ps to levy higher glycolic acid peels.
Here's a few tips for using glycolic acid:
- Face Washes: daily
- Active Serums: 1-2 times a week to start, gradually increasing to 3 times a week, then every other day, if your skin can hack it.
- Peels: every 2-4 weeks
- Masks: 2-3 times a week
Retinol's Time to Shine
Retinol is a type of retinoid, which is the gang name for all wicked products derived from vitamin A. Lower strength retinoids are available over-the-counter, which makes them more accessible to the masses.
Retinol works by encouraging collagen production, growing healthy skin, and providing stellar benefits to those suffering from acne and skin aging.
How to Use My Retinol
Retinol usually appears in the form of a common cream or serum. New to the scene, take it one step at a time:
- Start using it once a week to see if your skin gets all twisted and weird
- Wash your damn face, apply retinol, and then don't forget to moisturize.
- Gradually increase your use as directed by your skin's response
- Build up to using it every other day, but don't forget about daily sunscreen! Retinol makes your skin extra sensitive to UV rays.
Can I Use Glycolic Acid with Retinol?
In the past, experts thought combining glycolic acid and retinol was a catastrophic move. But oh no! Modern research proves those old ghouls were way off-base.
Glycolic acid and retinol can be a power duo, targeting acne and acne scarring with prowess. A 2015 study even suggested that combining retinol and glycolic acid could minimize the requirement for other acne scar treatments!
However, the potential for irritation exists when using both of these hefty compounds. To prevent irritated, inflamed, and sensitive skin, follow these safety tips:
- Get Started with Retinol. Begin at 1 application per week to understand your skin's reaction.
- Gradually Increase Retinol Use. If everything's cool, step it up to a few times per week, eventually reaching daily use if your skin can handle it. Expect to take a few months to acclimate yourself.
- Add Your Glycolic Acid Product. Start incorporating that stuff on a day you haven't used retinol.
- Incrementally Increase Glycolic Acid Use. Start using glycolic acid on days you avoid retinol. Gradually work your way up to daily use of both products, alternating your morning and nighttime regimen. Avoid combining other AHAs or active ingredients with glycolic acid, as scrubbing, exfoliating, or using vitamin C directly after application can create irritation.
- Protect Yo Skin. Hydrate with moisturizer and slather on sunscreen! Retinol increases UV ray sensitivity, while both products can be drying. Consult your dermatologist when necessary.
Retinol or Glycolic Acid: Which Skincare Queen Slays the Game?
If one queen must be crowned, it depends on your objectives.
Call upon Glycolic Acid if:
- You're a sensitive flower. Glycolic acid is gentler than retinol and less likely to irritate.
- You struggle with oily pores, discoloration, or uneven texture. Glycolic acid helps to eliminate dead skin cells and clear out clogged pores due to excess oil.
Embrace Retinol if:
- You're here for fine lines and wrinkles. Because retinol works by invigorating skin cells, it's better at addressing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- You've got sun damage. Retinol helps improve your skin's health where UV rays have wrecked havoc.
- You're battling acne. Retinol's boost for skin turnover helps unclog pores contributing to acne.
Risks, Side Effects, and Warnings
While these products are generally considered safe, potential side effects include:
- Sun Sensitivity
- Peeling/flaking
- Redness
- Itchiness
If you have a darker complexion, using glycolic acid can lead to hyperpigmentation, so practice caution and avoid using multiple glycolic acid products in your routine. Hydrate with moisturizer regularly, avoid scrubbing and exfoliating, and practice safe sun habits.
Finally, Pick Your Perfect Glycolic Acid and Retinol Products
With hundreds of skincare products to choose from, take these steps to find the right one for you:
- Define Your Skincare Goals: Are you targeting wrinkles, acne, oily skin, or discoloration? Aim at products that meet these skin wants!
- Study Product Reviews: Check what others think about the products you're considering.
- Start Small: Begin by trying lower concentrations of both retinol and glycolic acid if you're just starting out or plan to use both in your routine.
- Watch Your Skin: Keep an eye on your skin for signs of irritation and adjust your routine accordingly.
- Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen: Remember to wear daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect yourself from UV rays.
- Dermatologist Consultation: If you have particularly sensitive skin or concerns, you might want to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.
- When using both retinol and glycolic acid, it's crucial to avoid applying them simultaneously to prevent skin irritation and sensitivity.
- Retinol and glycolic acid are complementary skincare components, as a study suggests combining them may minimize the need for other acne treatments.
- Although glycolic acid is less likely to irritate sensitive skin, it's recommended to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase use over time.
- Added into the skin care routine, retinol and glycolic acid products can improve skin texture, reduce acne, and treat sun damage when incorporated properly.
