The Skin Formulary

Glycolic Acid

Q: Can Glycolic Acid cause skin irritation?

Glycolic Acid has a medium irritation risk. Can cause stinging, burning, redness, and peeling, particularly at concentrations above 10% or below pH 3.5. Sensitive skin types should patch test and start with lower concentrations. EU Annex III restricts leave-on products to a maximum of 10% at pH ≥3.5, with mandatory label warnings (SCCS opinions 0370/00 and 0799/04).

Q: Is Glycolic Acid safe to use during pregnancy?

Glycolic Acid is rated "caution" for pregnancy use. Low-concentration leave-on products (under 10%) are generally considered low risk during pregnancy as systemic absorption is minimal. Professional-strength treatments (above 20%) should be avoided. There are no robust controlled pregnancy studies; consult a healthcare provider before use.

Q: Does Glycolic Acid increase sun sensitivity?

Glycolic Acid has a yes sun sensitivity risk. AHAs increase the skin's sensitivity to UV radiation. SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen should be used daily during glycolic acid treatment. The EU Annex III restriction includes a mandatory warning to use sun protection.

Q: What are the benefits of Glycolic Acid for skin?

exfoliation, brightening, smoothing texture, fading hyperpigmentation, anti-ageing, collagen stimulation, treating dry patches

Q: What concentration of Glycolic Acid is effective?

Typical effective concentrations of Glycolic Acid are 4–10% in OTC leave-on products (EU max 10% at pH ≥3.5), up to 50% in rinse-off products, up to 70% in professional clinic treatments.

Q: What skin types is Glycolic Acid suitable for?

Glycolic Acid is suitable for oily, acne-prone, hyperpigmentation, dull skin, anti-ageing concerns, uneven texture.

INCI: Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), derived from sugarcane. It works by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed more easily and revealing fresher skin beneath. With regular use it also stimulates collagen synthesis, increasing skin thickness and firmness over time.

Typical Concentration

4–10%in OTC leave-on products (EU max 10% at pH ≥3.5)

up to 50%in rinse-off products

up to 70%in professional clinic treatments

Best For Skin Types

oilyacne-pronehyperpigmentationdull skinanti-ageing concernsuneven texture

CAS Number

79-14-1

What are the benefits of Glycolic Acid?

✓exfoliation

✓brightening

✓smoothing texture

✓fading hyperpigmentation

✓anti-ageing

✓collagen stimulation

✓treating dry patches

Is Glycolic Acid safe? Key considerations

Can Glycolic Acid cause irritation?

Medium Risk

Can cause stinging, burning, redness, and peeling, particularly at concentrations above 10% or below pH 3.5. Sensitive skin types should patch test and start with lower concentrations. EU Annex III restricts leave-on products to a maximum of 10% at pH ≥3.5, with mandatory label warnings (SCCS opinions 0370/00 and 0799/04).

Does Glycolic Acid increase sun sensitivity?

Yes Risk

AHAs increase the skin's sensitivity to UV radiation. SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen should be used daily during glycolic acid treatment. The EU Annex III restriction includes a mandatory warning to use sun protection.

Is Glycolic Acid safe during pregnancy?

Caution

Low-concentration leave-on products (under 10%) are generally considered low risk during pregnancy as systemic absorption is minimal. Professional-strength treatments (above 20%) should be avoided. There are no robust controlled pregnancy studies; consult a healthcare provider before use.

How does Glycolic Acid work?

Glycolic Acid is a alpha hydroxy acid active used across a range of concentrations depending on the application and product format.

Particularly beneficial for oily and acne-prone and hyperpigmentation and dull skin and anti-ageing concerns and uneven texture skin.

Individuals with sensitive skin, rosacea, eczema, active skin irritation, open wounds, active sunburn should review the considerations above before use.

How do you use Glycolic Acid in your routine?

A step-by-step guide to introducing Glycolic Acid into your skincare routine safely and effectively.

Choose the right concentration

Start with a product containing 4–10% in OTC leave-on products (EU max 10% at pH ≥3.5). Lower concentrations are better for beginners or sensitive skin.

Patch test first

Glycolic Acid has a medium irritation risk. Apply a small amount to your inner forearm and wait 24 hours before using it on your face.

Introduce gradually

Start by using Glycolic Acid 2–3 times per week in the evening. If your skin tolerates it well after 2 weeks, you can increase frequency.

Apply in the evening

Glycolic Acid increases sun sensitivity, so use it in your evening routine. If you use it during the day, broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is essential.

Follow with moisturiser

After Glycolic Acid has absorbed, apply a moisturiser to support your skin barrier. This is especially important when using active ingredients.

Wear SPF daily

While using Glycolic Acid, apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning, even on cloudy days. Reapply every 2 hours if you're spending time outdoors.

Science & Research

Research references for this ingredient are coming soon.

Which products contain Glycolic Acid?

Shop products that contain Glycolic Acid