Ingredient
Glycolic acid
A small-molecule surface exfoliant.
Zenzit summary
- Best for
- Texture and tone
- Watch for
- Over-exfoliation
- Beginner friendly
- moderate
- Simplicity score
- 6/10
The simplicity score reflects how easy an ingredient usually is to fit into a small routine — not how effective it is.
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What it is
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid derived from sugar cane, used in toners, serums and peels.
AHA
alpha hydroxy acid
What it may help with
- • Surface texture
- • Dullness
- • Post-inflammatory marks over time
How it works
It loosens the bonds between surface skin cells, encouraging them to shed more evenly.
Common strengths
- • 5%–10% in leave-on products; higher in professional peels
How often
1–3 times a week for most people.
Who commonly uses it
People focused on texture and tone more than active breakouts.
Irritation risk
moderate
Possible side effects
- • Stinging
- • Dryness
- • Sun sensitivity
Commonly works well with
- • Moisturizer
- • Sunscreen
- • Niacinamide
Use caution with
- Retinoids — Both increase turnover; combining nightly often irritates.
- Salicylic acid — Two exfoliants usually means more irritation, not more results.
Beginner tips
- • Sunscreen matters more while you use it.
- • Start weekly, not nightly.