by: Linda Robison
Glycolic Acid vs. Lactic Acid—if you’re aiming for radiant, smooth, and poreless skin, it’s time to consider adding glycolic and lactic acid to your routine.
These chemical exfoliants gently sweep away dead skin cells to reveal a brighter, smoother complexion. Both glycolic and lactic acids are part of the AHA family, each with unique benefits. Which one is best for you depends on your specific skin type and goals
So, we’ll break down everything you need to know about glycolic and lactic acid, so you can best equip yourself to reach your skin goals.
Use this guide to understand the key differences between glycolic and lactic acid and choose the right one for your skin. Whether you seek deep exfoliation, smoother texture, or increased hydration, we’ve got you covered.
What are AHA’s?
AHAs, or alpha-hydroxy acids, are naturally derived acids often found in fruits or sugar cane. They work by breaking apart the connections between dead skin cells on the surface of your skin, making it easier to show the fresh, new skin underneath.
Two of the most popular AHAs are glycolic acid and lactic acid. Both exfoliate the skin, but they have unique benefits and work best for different skin types.
Glycolic Acid: The powerhouse AHA
What It Is:
Glycolic acid is the smallest AHA molecule, derived from sugar cane. Because of its small size, it can penetrate deeply into the skin, making it one of the most potent exfoliants in the AHA family. It’s a go-to for those looking to address fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
Key Benefits:
- Deep exfoliation: Penetrates deeply, making it highly effective at shedding dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover.
- Stimulates collagen production: Reaching deeper layers of skin means it can boost collagen production, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
- Improves skin texture: Smooths rough patches and helps to even out your skin tone, reducing hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and sun damage.
Who Is it Best For?
Great for normal to oily skin. It addresses specific concerns like hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and fine lines. As a strong exfoliant, it’s the perfect choice for those seeking powerful results.
Lactic Acid: The Gentle Giant
What It Is:
Lactic acid, on the other hand, is a milder AHA derived from milk (though most skincare products use synthetic versions). Because its molecules are larger, it doesn’t penetrate the skin as deeply as glycolic acid, making it a gentler option for exfoliation.
Despite being less intense, it’s still highly effective at improving skin hydration and smoothing out fine lines.
Key Benefits:
- Gentle exfoliation: Perfect for sensitive skin or beginners to chemical exfoliation. It helps shed dead skin cells without irritation.
- Boosts moisture: Acts as a humectant, attracting moisture to the skin and improving hydration levels.
- Brightens and smooths: Helps lighten dark spots and smooth fine lines, though its results are slower and more gradual compared to glycolic acid.
Who Is it Best For?
Those with sensitive, dry, dehydrated skin. It’s a great starting point for those new to exfoliating acids, offering a milder option before progressing to stronger treatments like glycolic acid.
Glycolic Acid vs. Lactic Acid: The Key Differences
While both glycolic and lactic acid offer great exfoliation, they differ in their strength and the skin types they are best suited for. Here’s a quick breakdown of how they compare:
How to choose the right acid for you
Choose glycolic acid: If you have oily, combination, or sun-damaged skin. It’s ideal for deep exfoliation and quick results. Its small molecular size allows for deep penetration, effectively removing dead skin cells to reveal brighter skin underneath.
Opt for lactic acid: If you have sensitive or dry skin. This acid offers a gentler exfoliation while boosting hydration. It has a larger molecule, so it doesn’t penetrate as deeply.
NOTE: I ‘ve always loved lactic acid! It exfoliates well and keep my skin hydrated. Since I have dry skin, it’s my favorite acid to use. But I still use glycolic acid occasionally when I want a deeper exfoliation. It also gives my skin a firmer, more refreshed look.
You don’t have to pick just one!
You don’t have to choose just one! But avoid using glycolic and lactic acid on the same day.
Instead, alternate them with a few days or weeks in between. This way, you get the deep exfoliation of glycolic acid and the hydration boost from lactic acid without over-exfoliating.
Rotating between the two, especially for aging skin, keeps your complexion balanced. Give your skin a break to recover between treatments. I usually use lactic acid a few times a week and glycolic acid once a month.
My experience:
In my dry skin routine, I regularly use lactic acid. It keeps my skin hydrated and exfoliates effectively. About once a month, I’ll add a glycolic acid peel. It gives my complexion a gorgeous glass-like sheen and added luminosity. Plus, it makes my skin feel firmer.
Glycolic acid is fantastic for boosting collagen production and improving texture. These benefits help maintain that firm look over time.
Keep in mind that results can vary. It’s essential to monitor how your skin responds. Listen to your skin and find what works best for you. If you’re new to AHAs, start with this rotation to minimize the risk of over-exfoliation.
Always follow up with a hydrating serum and sunscreen during the day. AHAs can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Precaution
- Never use glycolic acid and lactic acids at the same time, unless they’re already combined within a specially formulate product.
- Check with your dermatologist if you have issues like rosacea or acne.
- Avoid using multiple products containing these acid at the same time.
- Avoid using right after exfoliating treatments like scrubs, masks, microdermabrasion or laser treatments.
- Stop using the acids when spending extended time at the beach or under direct sun.
- Before mixing glycolic acid with other acne treatments or cosmetics, check with your dermatologist.
- Always use sunscreen when applying glycolic & lactic acid products.
- If you’re pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider.
Final takeaway:
The Bottom Line:
Both glycolic and lactic acid are amazing options for getting smoother, more radiant skin. While glycolic acid packs a powerful exfoliating punch, lactic acid is a gentle option that’s great for more sensitive skin.
Depending on your skin type and needs, you can choose one or even combine both in your routine.
Just remember: Start slow, hydrate well, and always use sunscreen, as AHAs can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
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