In the pursuit of flawless skin, one ingredient that has gained significant popularity is glycolic acid. Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane and is widely recognized for its exfoliating and skin-rejuvenating properties.
In recent years, glycolic acid serums have become a skincare staple, lauded for their ability to address various skin concerns. In this blog, we will explore the wonders of glycolic acid serum and how it can transform your skincare routine. And finally, I will give you a list of the best glycolic acid serums in India.
What is Glycolic Acid
Glycolic acid is a water-soluble AHA known for its small molecular size, which allows it to penetrate the skin more effectively compared to other AHAs. This penetration enhances its exfoliating power and helps to slough off dead skin cells, revealing a fresh, radiant complexion underneath. Glycolic acid also stimulates collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Benefits of Glycolic Acid Serum
Here are some of the benefits of glycolic acid that you would be interested to know before buying yourself a glycolic acid serum.
Exfoliation and Skin Renewal
One of the primary benefits of glycolic acid serum is its exceptional exfoliating properties. With its small molecular size, glycolic acid penetrates the skin deeply, effectively removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores. By promoting gentle yet efficient exfoliation, it reveals a fresh layer of skin, resulting in a smoother and more refined complexion.
Improved Texture and Tone
Regular use of glycolic acid serum can help refine skin texture and even out skin tone. It aids in diminishing the appearance of acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and dark spots, resulting in a more uniform and youthful complexion. By encouraging cellular turnover, it helps fade away imperfections, giving your skin a renewed and revitalized look.
Minimization of Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Glycolic acid stimulates collagen production, a key protein responsible for maintaining skin’s firmness and elasticity. By increasing collagen synthesis, it helps to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Over time, consistent use of glycolic acid serum can promote plumper, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin.
Reduction of Acne and Breakouts
Acne-prone skin can greatly benefit from the antibacterial and pore-clearing properties of glycolic acid serum. It helps to unclog pores, remove excess oil, and prevent the formation of acne-causing bacteria. Incorporating glycolic acid into your skincare routine can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of breakouts, leading to a clearer and healthier complexion.
Brightening and Radiance
If you’re looking to achieve a radiant and glowing complexion, glycolic acid serum is an excellent choice. Its exfoliating action eliminates dull and dead skin cells, allowing fresh skin to surface. This reveals a brighter and more luminous complexion, giving you that youthful and healthy glow.
Increased Product Absorption
Glycolic acid serum enhances the absorption of other skincare products. By exfoliating the skin’s surface, it removes barriers that prevent other active ingredients from penetrating effectively. This allows subsequent skincare products, such as moisturizers or serums, to be better absorbed, maximizing their benefits and delivering optimal results.
Suitable for Most Skin Types
Glycolic acid serum is generally well-tolerated by various skin types. Its exfoliating properties are beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin, while its ability to promote skin renewal makes it suitable for dry or mature skin. However, individuals with sensitive skin should exercise caution and perform a patch test before incorporating glycolic acid into their routine.
Best Glycolic Acid Serums in India
Here is a list of the best glycolic acid serums in India.
L’Oreal Paris Brightening Serum, 1% Glycolic Acid, 2% Niacinamide Serum
The L’Oreal Paris Brightening Serum combines the power of glycolic acid and niacinamide to visibly minimize spots and reveal an even skin tone. With 1% glycolic acid, it gently exfoliates the skin, promoting cell turnover and diminishing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Niacinamide, at 2% concentration, helps to brighten the skin and improve its overall texture. This serum offers a dual-action formula to tackle multiple skin concerns, leaving you with a more luminous and even complexion.
Rs. 450 for 30 ml
Minimalist 10% AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum For Beginners
The Minimalist 10% AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum is an excellent choice for those new to chemical exfoliation. This serum contains AHAs (Lactic Acid & Glycolic Acid) and BHA (Salicylic Acid) in a balanced formulation. With a 10% concentration, it gently exfoliates the skin, effectively removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and reducing the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads.
The serum’s minimalist approach ensures that even beginners can experience the benefits of AHA and BHA without overwhelming or sensitizing the skin.
Rs. 570 for 30 ml
Dot & Key Watermelon 10% Glycolic Acid Glow Face Serum
The Dot & Key Watermelon 10% Glycolic Acid Glow Face Serum is a powerhouse product that combines the nourishing properties of watermelon extract, the exfoliating power of 10% glycolic acid, the antioxidant-rich benefits of cloudberry oil, and the skin-brightening effects of Kojic acid. This serum provides a comprehensive approach to achieving a glowing complexion.
The watermelon extract hydrates and refreshes the skin, while glycolic acid gently exfoliates, revealing a brighter and more even skin tone. The addition of cloudberry oil and Kojic acid helps to nourish the skin and fade dark spots, resulting in a youthful and radiant appearance.
Rs. 480 for 30 ml
The Derma Co 30% AHA + 2% BHA Face Peeling Solution
The Derma Co 30% AHA + 2% BHA Face Peeling Solution is a powerhouse formula that combines the exfoliating prowess of glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, and salicylic acid. With a pH of 3.6, it provides optimal efficacy for removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and reducing acne breakouts.
This potent solution effectively resurfaces the skin, revealing a smoother and more radiant complexion. However, it is crucial to follow the instructions and perform a patch test before incorporating it into your routine to ensure compatibility with your skin.
Rs. 535 for 30 ml
Pilgrim Korean Salicylic Acid 1% + Glycolic Acid 3% Anti-Acne Serum
Designed specifically for oily and acne-prone skin, the Pilgrim Korean Salicylic Acid 1% + Glycolic Acid 3% Anti-Acne Serum is a game-changer. Combining the benefits of salicylic acid and glycolic acid, this serum effectively targets acne, blackheads, and excess oil.
The inclusion of yugdagu, a traditional Korean herbal ingredient, adds a soothing and calming effect to the formula, reducing inflammation and redness associated with acne. With regular use, this serum promotes clearer, healthier-looking skin with improved texture and reduced breakouts.
Rs. 500 for 30 ml
Foxtale 2% Salicylic Acid + 2% Glycolic Acid Serum
For those struggling with oily, acne-prone skin and bumpy texture, the Foxtale 2% Salicylic Acid + 2% Glycolic Acid Serum is a must-try. This exfoliating serum harnesses the power of 2% glycolic acid and 2% salicylic acid to deeply cleanse pores, reduce excess oil, and fight acne and blackheads.
The addition of 1% niacinamide helps in reducing inflammation and improving the overall texture of the skin. With its lightweight and easily absorbed formula, this serum is perfect for incorporating into your daily skincare routine.
Rs. 465 for 30 ml
Kaya 5% Glycolic Acid + 1% Polyglutamic Acid Face Serum
The Kaya 5% Glycolic Acid + 1% Polyglutamic Acid Face Serum is a powerful anti-aging solution. With 5% glycolic acid, it exfoliates the skin, reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. The addition of 1% polyglutamic acid enhances hydration, leaving your skin plump and supple.
This serum also offers acne and pimple control, making it a versatile option for various skin concerns. Regular use of this serum can help you achieve a more youthful and rejuvenated complexion.
Rs. 595 for 30 ml
Aqualogica Detan+ Concentrate Face Serum
For those seeking a de-tanning and hydrating solution, the Aqualogica Detan+ Concentrate Face Serum is an excellent choice. Enriched with cherry tomato extract, hyaluronic acid, and glycolic acid, this serum works wonders in reducing tanning and providing deep hydration to the skin.
The cherry tomato extract helps in brightening the skin tone, while hyaluronic acid ensures long-lasting hydration. Glycolic acid aids in gently exfoliating the skin, revealing a refreshed and radiant appearance. Say goodbye to dull, dehydrated skin with this potent serum.
Rs. 530 for 30 ml
Dot & Key 10% AHA + 2% BHA Hydro Peel Glow Potion
The Dot & Key 10% AHA + 2% BHA Hydro Peel Glow Potion is a true powerhouse when it comes to achieving a radiant glow. This exfoliating serum combines the benefits of glycolic and lactic acids (AHA) and salicylic acid (BHA). With a 10% AHA concentration, it effectively removes dead skin cells, evens out the skin tone, and promotes a natural radiance.
The addition of 2% BHA helps to unclog pores and reduce acne breakouts. This peeling solution provides a transformative experience, revealing smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin.
Rs. 325 for 30 ml
mCaffeine Exfoliating Peel Serum with 25% AHA, 2% BHA, 5% PHA
mCaffeine Exfoliating Peel Serum is a powerhouse formula designed to target blackheads, whiteheads, and improve skin texture. With an impressive combination of 25% AHA, 2% BHA, and 5% PHA, this serum provides a multi-dimensional exfoliation experience.
The AHA component, consisting of glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid, works to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reveal a smoother complexion. The addition of salicylic acid (BHA) helps in treating and preventing acne breakouts. Suitable for all skin types, this serum is a game-changer for achieving a fresh and rejuvenated appearance.
Rs. 535 for 30 ml
Lotus Professional PhytoRx AHA+BHA Booster Serum
The Lotus Professional PhytoRx AHA+BHA Booster Serum is a gentle yet effective exfoliator that clarifies and revitalizes the skin. Formulated with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid, this serum targets various skin concerns, including acne, blemishes, and uneven texture.
The AHA component helps to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin, while salicylic acid (BHA) penetrates deeper into the pores, unclogging them and reducing inflammation. This booster serum promotes a clearer and more refined complexion, making it a must-have for anyone seeking smoother, more even-toned skin.
Rs. 775 for 30 ml
Incorporating Glycolic Acid Serum into Your Skincare Routine
To introduce glycolic acid serum into your skincare regimen, follow these steps:
Patch Test: Before using any new product, it’s essential to perform a patch test to check for any adverse reactions. Apply a small amount of the serum to a discreet area of your skin, such as behind the ear or on the inner forearm. If there is no irritation or redness within 24 hours, it is safe to proceed.
Start Slowly: If you are new to glycolic acid, begin with a lower concentration (around 5-7%) and gradually increase it over time. This allows your skin to acclimate to the acid and reduces the risk of irritation.
Cleanse and Tone: Cleanse your face thoroughly and follow it up with a toner to prepare your skin for the serum application.
Apply Glycolic Acid Serum: Dispense a small amount of the serum onto your fingertips and gently pat it onto your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Start with a once-daily application, preferably in the evening, and gradually increase the frequency as tolerated.
Moisturize and Protect: After the serum has fully absorbed, apply a moisturizer to hydrate and nourish the skin. During the day, always follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Consistency is Key: To achieve optimal results, consistency is essential. Incorporate glycolic acid serum into your skincare routine regularly, but remember to listen to your skin’s needs. If you experience excessive dryness or irritation, reduce the frequency of application or consult a dermatologist.
Conclusion
Glycolic acid serum is undoubtedly a game-changer in the skincare world. Its exfoliating properties, combined with its ability to address various skin concerns, make it an excellent addition to any skincare routine. However, it is essential to use glycolic acid serums with caution and introduce them gradually to avoid over-exfoliation or irritation. With consistent use, you can achieve a smoother, brighter, and more youthful complexion that will have you feeling confident and radiant.
Affiliate Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links. This means, at no added cost to you, the marketing affiliate pays me a small commission every time you make a purchase from the links on this website. Read the Disclaimer to know more.
