Discover 8 Glycolic Acid Products For Exfoliation, Brightening & Skin Benefits

Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid in the family of ingredients and penetrates deepest into the skin, helping with exfoliation, acne, and hyperpigmentation. It also helps with de-tanning, brightness, fine lines, wrinkles, and collagen-boosting, resulting in your skin becoming more firm and elastic.

The percentage of glycolic acid is super important to consider while choosing, as it is an exfoliant and higher concentrations can irritate the skin. The other thing that is paramount to consider is being really cognisant of what you are using it with. Suppose you are using more ingredients with the ability to exfoliate, which will result in excessive exfoliation, which in turn can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which really defeats the purpose of this particular active.

So, with all the dos and don'ts in mind, let's check out the best serums for glycolic acid available on the market that assure all its benefits and should definitely be a part of your weekly skincare routine. 

The glycolic toning solution from Ordinary has established itself as the best one in the game. Literally the whole internet raves about it, and for all the right reasons. Its 7% glycolic acid concentration, along with amino acids, aloe Vera, ginseng, and pepperberry, offers mild exfoliation while giving you a clear, radiant skin. The formula is also said to improve skin appearance and texture and works well for various skin types, from dry to oily. Its exfoliating nature also targets dullness and helps with signs of aging, but should not be used more than twice a week.

Pro-Tip: Check out review of Ordinary products here.

Murad, although on the pricier side, has been steadily making its way to the Indian market with its clean, vegan, cruelty-free formulas and environmentally friendly packaging. The serum has glycolic acid, photo-luminescent extract, and gold-stabilising vitamin C that exfoliates, illuminates, and increases stability and potency for brighter-looking skin. It also builds a stronger antioxidant defense that ensures increased absorption of vitamin C and other actives.

We all know how Plix went viral on Instagram for their Jamun Acne Spot Control Serum, but we want you to get on their Guava Bright Dewy Serum, because it's equally good, if not better. This serum contains 3% glycolic acid along with vitamin C and guava extract. Glycolic acid exfoliates and aids in hyperpigmentation; guava extract has rejuvenating properties; and vitamin C performs as a bioactive that provides luminous, smoother-looking skin. It also has no toxic chemicals, and is completely fragrance-free, making it perfect to include in your nighttime skin care routine.

Minimalist always come through when it comes to creating skincare that is effective and economical. Their 8% Glycolic acid serum, which works for the body, arms, and scalp, exfoliates, smoothes, and reduces hyperpigmentation, revealing a more radiant, healthy-looking skin beneath. The serum is infused with bamboo water, which replenishes, nourishes, and hydrates the skin. It is advisable to use sunscreen after the application, and it will truly be an effective addition to your skincare regime.

With 10% Glycolic acid, watermelon extract, and Kojic acid, this serum provides an instant glow and treats acne and pigmentation. If you are looking for a serum that exfoliates and unclogs your pores, then this would be a great pick. It improves skin texture and clarity, corrects discolouration, and removes dark spots, and is completely fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. Its star ingredient is watermelon extract, with its rich antioxidants, which provides an instant glow, giving you luminous, fresh-looking skin.

Lending from Korean beauty secrets, Pilgrims is a brand known for its vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free products. This serum had glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and Yugdugu, which are best known for clearing skin and preventing breakouts. It helps with refining skin texture, and the salicylic acid clears blemishes and breakouts, giving a radiant look and freshness to your skin.

Should you use Glycolic acid on a daily basis?

Since Glycolic acid is an exfoliant that smooths the skin texture, and treats hyperpigmentation, it is not advised to use it not more than two times a week; however, products with a considerably lower concentration can be incorporated into daytime and night time regimes.

Is it a requirement to use a moisturiser and sunscreen after the application of Glycolic Acid?

Yes, as with all serums, it is extremely crucial to use a good moisturiser and sunscreen after using them, especially Glycolic Acid, as it exfoliates and treats acne.

Does Glycolic Acid help with collagen growth?

Yes, by breaking the bonds between skin cells as it penetrates the deepest into your skin, it helps with texture, which in turn boosts collagen production and aids in fine lines and wrinkles.

Can it be used as a hygiene product for evening out the texture and pigmentation of armpits?

It can help, in terms of its antimicrobial property, but there is no evidence that it lightens the armpit area, as its primary nature is an exfoliant. 

After exfoliation, you need to pack everything in with lots of hydration. Check out our best serums for hydration here.