What is glycolic acid used for?

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid. It loosens the bonds between older cells at the skin surface, allowing them to shed more readily. This can make skin feel smoother and look more even. It is found in some home products and can also be used by a professional in a chemical peel, where the strength and contact time are selected for the treatment area and skin condition.

Because exfoliation can irritate skin, more product or stronger treatment is not automatically better. Active eczema, infection, sunburn, or a damaged skin barrier may make treatment unsuitable until the skin has recovered.

Introduce a home product gradually and follow its label rather than layering several exfoliating ingredients at once. Use gentle cleansing, moisturiser, and daytime sun protection. Stop and seek advice if burning persists, swelling develops, or the skin becomes raw. Before a professional peel, disclose retinoids, acne medicines, recent hair removal, cold sores, and any tendency to develop dark marks after inflammation.

Get medical advice for blistering, marked swelling, severe pain, crusting, or redness that keeps spreading after glycolic acid. Urgent help is needed for facial swelling with breathing difficulty or a serious eye exposure. Persistent darkening or lightening after irritation should be assessed rather than treated with more exfoliant.

What strength and format suit my skin? Should I pause any current products? How should I prepare for a peel, protect my skin afterward, and recognise irritation that needs treatment?