Skincare glossary
Glycolic acid
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin's surface.
- Who it suits
- Dull, uneven or textured skin.
Why is glycolic acid used?
Added for visible brightness and smoother texture, especially in products aimed at dullness or pigmentation.
Worth knowing
Its small molecule size makes it more potent, and more likely to irritate, than other AHAs, so build up slowly.
Products with glycolic acid
Brightening night creamCaudalie
£££Vinoperfect Brightening Glycolic Refillable Night Cream
Night cream combining hydration and gentle exfoliation
7% glycolic acidThe Ordinary
£Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
Affordable glycolic acid toner for exfoliation
Overnight glycolic treatmentMedik8
££Sleep Glycolic
A time-release 10% glycolic acid overnight peel designed to brighten, smooth and decongest the skin
