One of the strongest elements in a good skincare is exfoliation. It assists in eliminating dead cells of the skin, clogging of the pores, making skin appear radiant, uneven skin being even, and enabling other skincare products to perform better. Salicylic acid and glycolic acid are two of the most popular and widely recommended ingredients in dermatology and cosmetic skincare, and are listed among the chemical exfoliants.

However, the most common issue is that most people are confused about the choice of which one to use even though they are all popular. Both are acids. Both exfoliate. However, they suit different skin issues and they work in a completely different way.
In this step-by-step tutorial, will know about salicylic and glycolic acid, along with how each exfoliating serum works, who needs what, the pros, the cons, the routine, the safety measures, and how to select the right exfoliating serum to use on your own skin type.

♦ Knowing Chemical Exfoliation

It is necessary to know the mechanism of chemical exfoliation prior to comparing the two.As opposed to physical scrubs that mechanically cleansing dead skin cells, chemical exfoliants loosen the glue that connects dead cells to each other thus letting them cannibalize naturally.

This leads to:

• Smoother skin texture
• Brighter complexion
• Less breakouts and congestion.
• Enhanced ensuring of serums and moisturizers.
• Better fine lines and pigmentation with age.

There are three types of chemical exfoliants:

• AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) - water soluble.
• BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids) - soluble in oil.
• PHAs (Polyhydroxy Acids) - softer counterparts of AHAs.

Glycolic acid is an AHA and salicylic acid is a BHA - this distinction alters everything with regard to the way both of them act upon your skin.

♦ What Is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), which is a product of sugar cane. It is the smallest of all AHA and this enables it to penetrate the skin very fast and in the superficial levels.

How Glycolic Acid Works, Glycolic acid works by:

• Loose the dermal attachment of dead skin cells on the surface.
• Accelerating cell turnover
• Peeling away scabs and other skin disorders.
• Encouraging the use of collagen stimulation in the long term.

It mainly sheds off the deepest part of the skin, which is best when it comes to enhancement of the skin complexion and texture.

The main Advantages of Glycolic Acid:

• Brightens dull skin
• Smooths rough texture
• Blanches dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
• Enhances sunburns and pigmentation.
• Lessens the occurrence of fine lines.
• Improves the radiance of the skin.

Typical Concentrations:

• 5-8%: Beginners or sensitive skin
• 8-12%: Regular at-home exfoliation
• 15-20%: Sophisticated or controlled use.
• 30 percent or more: Professional chemical peels exclusively.

Best For:

• Normal to dry skin
• Dull and uneven skin tone
• Pigmentation and dark spots
• Early signs of aging
• Sun-damaged skin

♦ What Is Salicylic Acid?

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) preparation made out of bark of willow. It is also oil-soluble unlike AHAs, therefore, it can get deep within the pores and dissolve the unwanted excess oil and debris.
How Salicylic Acid Works:

• Invades into pores filled with oil.
• Dissolves excess sebum
• Removes trapped dead cells
• Lessens edema and erythema.
• Prevents future breakouts
• It functions as an exfoliant and an anti-acne constituent.

Salicylic Acid has the following benefits:

• Treats acne at the root
• Clears clogged pores
• Minimizes blackheads and whiteheads.
• Controls oil production
• Minimizes breakouts
• Calms inflamed acne

Typical Concentrations:

• 0.5-1%: Daily maintenance
• 2%: Standard acne treatment

Increased concentrations: Pro Professional peels best for:

• Oily skin
• Acne-prone skin
• Congested pores
• Blackheads and whiteheads
• Hormonal breakouts

♦ Salicylic Acid vs. Glycolic Acid: Key Differences

♦ Which One Is Right for Your Skin Type?

Oily and Acne-Prone Skin:

• Salicylic acid is the best option. Its ability to dissolve in oil gives it a very high potential to be used in:
• Treating active acne
• Reducing excess sebum
• Preventing clogged pores
• Controlling blackheads

Only add glycolic acid afterwards to acne scars and pigmentation when you have breakouts under control.

Dry or Dehydrated Skin:

• Low concentration glycolic acid is better since it:
• Removes flaky surface skin
• Improves dullness
• Improves product uptake.

They are drying in high amounts thus always use a deep moisturizer, as these are hydrating.

Combination Skin:

• You will find a combined use of acids:
• Salicylic acid on the T-zone
• Glycolic acid on dull or pigmented areas
• Or alternate nights between the two.

Delicate or Rosacea-Prone Skin:

• The two acids should be cautiously used. Start with:
• Very low concentrations
• Once or twice weekly
• Do not combine several actives in the same way.
• The PHAs or lactic acid can be milder substitutes.

Old Age and Pigmentation-Prone Skin:

• Glycolic acid is ideal for:
• Stimulating collagen
• Reducing fine lines
• Fading discoloration
• Enhancing the all-over skin radiance.

To avoid new pigmentation, always use it in conjunction with sunscreen.

♦ Is it safe to use Glycolic and Salicylic acid together?

No, not at the same time in the beginning. The combination of the two may easily result in irritation when they are not done properly.

Safe Ways to Combine:

• Alternate night (one night salicylic, the next night, glycolic).
• Apply glycolic at night and salicylic in the morning.
• Apply salicylic to acne prone areas and glycolic to pigmented areas.
• Avoid using two powerful acid serums in a single cycle unless under the direction of a dermatologist.

The Safety of using Exfoliating Serums:

• Wipe your face off.
• Apply acid serum on dry skin
• Let it absorb 1-2 minutes.
• Use hydrating serum or moisturizer.
• Wear your sunscreen daily in the morning.
• Frequency Guide:
• Beginners: 1-2 times per week
• Occasional users: 3-4 times per week.
• Critical cases: Alternate days or as tolerated.

Excessive exfoliation may harm the skin barrier and need to produce redness, peeling, burns or acne exacerbations.

Side Effects to Watch Out For:

• Pain in the nerves or numbness (normal at first)
• Redness
• Dryness or peeling
• Increased sun sensitivity

Discontinue and seek the advice of a dermatologist in case you develop:

• Severe burning
• Swelling
• Blistering
• Persistent irritation

Safety of Pregnancy and Skin of Color:

Glycolic acid is normally safe where it is used in low doses during pregnancy though medical guidance is advised. During pregnancy, salicylic acid must be applied in low quantities on topical areas and must not be used in peels.
With darker skin tones, both acids should be safe assuming that they are used carefully and combined with daily sunscreen to avoid post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

♦ Significance of Sunscreen which contains Acids

Both salicylic acid and glycolic acid make people sensitive to the sun. Without sunscreen:

• Pigmentation worsens
• Skin aging accelerates
• Reversed exfoliation benefits.

Apply wide-spectrum SPF 30 or higher each and every day, including indoors.

♦ Quick Decision Guide

• Suffering with acne, full of holes? - Salicylic Acid
• Fighting monotony, color, and wrinkles? - Glycolic Acid
• Have both concerns? - Alternate between the two
• Sensitive skin? - Low or dermatologist consultation.

♦ Final Thoughts

Salicylic acid and glycolic acid are equally potent exfoliating agents yet they have very unlike purposes. The correct one will all depend on your type of skin, your concerns and how categorical you are. Properly applied, the two acids can have a significant effect on making skin healthier, smoother, and happier with a longer, more beautiful appearance.
The trick here is to have moderation, regularity, drink fluids, and to protect the skin with a lot of sun protection. Evening of the skin and hair makes it strong,but it becomes weak at the same time it is kept up to the limit.

♦ Health Gennie Reference

This educational paper follows the evidence-based skincare practices advocated by dermatology specialists. To receive the individual skincare advice, virtual health consultation, and preventive dermatology services, you can check the professional wellness services provided by Health Gennie.
Health Gennie concentrates on preventive care, quality medical services, and custom-crafted health services that enable people to make informed decisions on skincare and wellness.

♦ Disclaimer

The information is purely educational, and not to be used instead of a doctor. It is always necessary to seek medical advice with a dermatologist or any health practitioner to receive individualized treatment, particularly in case of any chronic skin ailment.

Also Read:- Glutathione for Skin: Benefits, Risks, and Dermatologist Insights