Glycolic Acid Toner: How to Use It Without Irritating Your Skin

Glycolic acid shows up in a lot of the toners you see around. And in a lot of questions too. If you're starting a skincare routine and aren't sure whether this step is for you, this guide is for you. We'll look at what it is, what it does for your skin and how to fit it in without risking discomfort.

What is a glycolic acid toner?

A glycolic acid toner is a chemical exfoliation step. Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid, or AHA. It has a small molecule, so it quickly penetrates the outermost layer of the skin. There, it helps loosen the dead cells that build up over the days. The result, over time, is skin that looks smoother and has a more even tone.

This step is different from a scrub with grains. There's no friction here. The acid works by contact, so it asks for attention to your tolerance.

What you can expect

It usually helps with the look of texture and with the skin's radiance. It also helps improve the look of superficial marks when used regularly. It isn't a step for every day at the start. And it doesn't replace moisturiser or sun protection.

How to introduce glycolic acid into your routine

Start slowly and at night

Apply at night, on clean, dry skin. Start with one application a week. Avoid the eye and lip contours. A slight tingle is common at the beginning. If it stings or turns red, stop and give your skin a rest.

Increase the frequency gradually

If your skin is comfortable with one application a week, you can try two days a week. Don't rush to daily use. A tolerant skin matters more than a high frequency.

What to apply afterwards

After the toner, moisturise. A moisturiser with hyaluronic acid helps keep you comfortable. Unnamed Cosmetics' Repairing Prebiotic Serum, with prebiotics and hyaluronic acid, helps strengthen the skin barrier. And in the morning, always use sunscreen. The Mineral Facial Sunscreen SPF 50 helps protect your skin at this stage.

Mistakes to avoid

• Using it every day straight away. This is the most common mistake. Your skin needs time to adapt to the acid.
• Combining several acids in the same night. If you use a glycolic acid toner, don't add another acid peel in the same application.
• Skipping sunscreen. Skin that is being exfoliated becomes more sensitive to light. Protection is part of the step.
• Applying on irritated skin. If your skin is peeling or red, leave the acid aside until it calms down.
• Forgetting to moisturise. Exfoliating without moisturising leaves your skin uncomfortable.

A gentler alternative: lactic acid

If glycolic acid seems harsh to you, there's an alternative within the same family. Lactic acid is also an AHA, but with a larger molecule. So it acts more slowly and tends to be more comfortable on the skin. Unnamed Cosmetics' Lactic Acid Exfoliating Serum combines 10% lactic acid with 1% hyaluronic acid. It helps loosen dead cells while the hyaluronic acid keeps you comfortable. It also contains white tea extract and sage extract, which help soothe the skin. Use it at night, once or twice a week, and always with sunscreen the following day.

Your night-time routine with an AHA

1. Cleanse. A gentle cleansing gel removes impurities without leaving your skin feeling tight. Unnamed Cosmetics' Facial Cleansing Gel is light and suitable for daily use.
2. Exfoliate. Once or twice a week, apply your AHA to dry skin on your face.
3. Moisturise. Follow with a moisturiser suited to your skin type.
4. Protect. In the morning, apply sunscreen. It's the step that closes the routine.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use the toner in the morning?

It's best at night. At night, your skin has less exposure to light and you can moisturise straight afterwards.

What if my skin stings?

A slight tingle is common. Pain, strong stinging or redness are not. In that case, stop, soothe your skin with a gentle moisturiser and reduce the frequency.

Can I combine it with other actives?

Avoid combining two acids in the same application. You can alternate them on different nights. If you use a retinol serum, alternate the nights.

Conclusion

A glycolic acid toner can be a good step in your routine. As long as you ease in slowly, at night, with moisturiser and sun protection alongside it. If you'd prefer something calmer, lactic acid is a gentler way in. The most important thing is to listen to your skin and give it the time it asks for.

Beauty without labels.