Glycolic Acid vs. Salicylic Acid: How to Use Them the Right Way
Glycolic Acid vs. Salicylic Acid: How to Use Them the Right Way
Do you use glycolic acid or salicylic acid first?
If you’re using a cleanser with salicylic acid, like the UFlawless formula with 2% salicylic acid at pH 4.5, this should be your first step.
It clears away oil and impurities while prepping pores for the next treatment.
Glycolic acid, which targets the surface layer of skin, is best applied afterward as a treatment serum or gel.
Can I apply salicylic acid and glycolic acid together?
Not in the same routine. Both acids exfoliate, but in different ways, salicylic goes into the pores while glycolic resurfaces the top layer.
Using them at the same time may cause irritation. Instead, alternate them on different nights for maximum benefit.
The only safe exception is when you use the UFlawless X9 Advanced Exfoliating Cleanser (2% salicylic acid at low pH with coconut oil, which minimizes irritation) followed by the X3 Refining Glycolic Acid Gel.
This pairing works because the cleanser gently preps and clears pores, while the glycolic gel resurfaces skin without overwhelming it.
Should I use glycolic or salicylic acid at night?
Both acids are best suited for nighttime routines. During the day, your skin is exposed to UV rays, which can increase sensitivity.
Using them at night allows the acids to work while your skin repairs itself.
Which is the best time to use glycolic acid?
Nighttime, 2 to 3 times per week.
Glycolic acid boosts cell turnover and brightens the skin, but it can make you more sensitive to sunlight.
Always use sunscreen the next morning.
What should you not mix with glycolic acid?
Avoid pairing glycolic acid with strong retinoids, vitamin C serums, or other exfoliating acids in the same routine.
Combining too many active ingredients at once can over-exfoliate the skin and weaken the barrier.
What not to pair with salicylic acid?
Similar to glycolic acid, avoid layering salicylic with retinoids or other exfoliants in the same routine.
It works well with gentle hydrators, soothing serums, and moisturizers that restore balance to the skin.
What order do you apply serums?
After cleansing, apply the thinnest-textured serum first and move to thicker ones.
If you’re alternating acids, use glycolic or salicylic on separate nights, followed by hydrating or firming serums, then moisturizer.
Can I use glycolic acid every day?
Daily use is not recommended.
Even at safe concentrations, glycolic acid is powerful.
Start with 1 to 2 times per week, and if your skin tolerates it, move up to 3 times per week.
How often should you use salicylic acid and glycolic acid?
-
Salicylic cleanser (2%): safe for daily use since it’s rinsed off, especially when paired with soothing ingredients like coconut oil.
-
Glycolic gel or serum: 2 to 3 times per week at night for resurfacing benefits.
What should I use with glycolic acid at night?
Pair glycolic with calming, nourishing products.
A peptide cream, antioxidant serum, or hyaluronic acid moisturizer helps lock in hydration and reduce irritation.
Which is better for large pores, glycolic or salicylic acid?
Salicylic acid is more effective for enlarged pores because it penetrates oil and clears buildup inside.
Glycolic acid can help refine texture and reduce the look of pores over time, but salicylic is the go-to choice for pore minimization.
UFlawless Skincare Tip
With UFlawless, you don’t have to worry about harsh side effects.
Our Salicylic Acid Cleanser combines 2% salicylic acid at low pH with coconut oil for a gentle, pore-clearing clean.
Pair it with our Glycolic Acid Gel, used 2 to 3 nights a week, to achieve clear, smooth, and radiant skin, without irritation.
Related Posts
Why Fall Is the Perfect Season for a Skin Reset?
Are Liver Spots and Age Spots the Same Thing?
The Complete Guide For Affordable, Natural & Effective Alternatives to Dermal Fillers
Why Do I Breakout Before My Period?
Water: The Foundation of Great Skin
Retinol vs. Glycolic Acid
