Glycolic acid is one of the popular ingredients which is extensively used in the cosmetic industry due to its gentle exfoliation properties. Due to constant exposure to excessive sun, pollution and even aging totally play a part in dullness, rough skin texture and uneven skin tone. That’s where a glycolic acid face wash helps as it removes the assembled dead skin cells from the skin surface which gives a smooth and brighter skin.
However, the glycolic acid is not harsh, but still exfoliation can sometimes cause irritation, redness or burning that further damages the skin. Even using it in the wrong way also causes several skin related problems.
Therefore, in this guide we will talk about some side effects of glycolic face wash and tips to use the face wash safely that will help you to know the signs if the face wash is damaging your skin and then you can reduce or stop the usage of the cleanser and protect your skin from further damage.
Common Side Effects From Glycolic Acid
Even though glycolic acid face wash stays only for some time on the skin, exfoliation can sometimes make the skin more sensitive which totally results in several side effects. Knowing the side effects beforehand will help you to take immediate measures and can prevent further damage.
1. More Dryness
One of the common side effects of using the glycolic acid face wash is skin dryness. As the face gently exfoliates the skin which removes the dead skin cells and new cells are exposed. Sometimes new cells are exposed before the recovery of the skin barrier which loses water and leads to tight or dry skin.
If you also have been experiencing more dry or tight skin after introducing the glycolic acid then try to reduce the usage of glycolic acid and apply a hydrating moisturizer after cleansing the face.
2. Persistent Redness
If you just started using the glycolic acid, then mild redness is normal as your skin is adjusting to the glycolic acid. But if you experience persistent redness or burning then it might be the case that the face wash is not suitable for your skin.
So if you notice constant redness or burning while using the glycolic acid face wash then it is best for you to stop using it or try a more gentle cleanser.
3. Peeling and Flakyness
When you first introduce the glycolic acid face wash in your routine, mild peeling or flaky skin is normal as the skin adjusts to the new ingredients.
However if you notice increased peeling or experience a more flaky skin and continuing using the acid can cause even more irritation and dryness. That’s why you should stop or reduce the usage of glycolic acid cleansers if you notice heavy peeling.
4. Increased Sun Sensitivity
As the glycolic acid removes the skin’s outermost layer which thins out the skin’s protective barrier. When new cells are exposed to sun, without adequate sun protection, they are more prone to tanning, pigmentation and sun damage.
That’s why it is very important to apply enough sunscreen of spf 30 or higher, having a broad spectrum after washing the face with glycolic acid which will protect your skin from UV radiations.
5. Chemical Burns
Using a higher concentration of glycolic acid without any kind of recommendation of any dermatologists can cause physical blistering or chemical burns.
Hence it is best for you to start with lower concentration of glycolic acid and if you already have been facing chemical burns then you should immediately consult your doctor to prevent further harm.
How to Use it Safely?
Using the glycolic acid cleanser safely helps in reducing the risk of skin related issues. You can consider these tips while using the cleanser:
- Perform a patch test to see if the cleanser suits your skin type or not and then use on the face as facial skin is more delicate.
- If the skin feels okay during patch tests then you can start using the cleanser 2 or 3 times a day and then increase gradually over time if the skin feels okay.
- Have an appropriate amount of cleanser on the palms and massage it softly in circle motion for about 1-2 minutes and then wash it off with water.
- Dry the face softly with a clean towel.
- Apply gentle and non-comedogenic moisturizer on the face.
- Before going outside make sure you apply enough sunscreen having spf 30 or above with a broad spectrum which protects against UV radiations.
Mistakes to Avoid
People often make mistakes while using the face wash which results in damaging their skin barrier and even causing several side effects.
- Never mix too many active ingredients in a single skincare routine as it fully destroys your skin barrier. Even if you want to use it, then use it on alternate days.
- Acid removes the skin’s outermost layer which weakens the barrier which is why applying a hydrating moisturizer is important to prevent dry skin.
- Glycolic acid makes the skin more sensitive to sun which is why applying sunscreen is must to prevent skin from sun damage.
- If you are noticing persistent irritation, burning and flaky skin then you should stop using the face wash and should consult with your doctor to avoid further damage.
The Bottom Line
Glycolic acid can be a great option for individuals who are struggling with dull skin, uneven and rough skin texture. As it gently exfoliates the skin’s outermost layer which removes the pile up of dead skin cells from the surface which gives a more smoother, brighter and even skin.
However, sometimes people also experience irritation or dryness due to over exfoliation or their skin does not tolerate the acid but ignoring them might cause further skin harm. That’s why knowing the common side effects such as persistent irritation and dry or flaky skin and how to use it safely will help you to minimize the side effects while getting the maximum benefits from glycolic acid face wash and protect your skin from further damage.
