What is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is the smallest member of the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family. It rapidly and easily penetrates the epidermis and is strong enough to dissolve dead skin cells and impurities of the skin. Glycolic acid contains antibacterial and anti-ageing properties that benefit the skin by reducing acne marks, fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and more while improving skin texture and complexion. It also helps to boost collagen production and exfoliate the skin thoroughly.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a substance that is naturally found in the human body. It is a humectant that can pull water from the atmosphere and can retain up to 1000 times its weight in water. Its main function is to maintain the natural moisture barrier of the skin and keep it moist and lubricated to reveal healthy, plump, youthful and glowing skin with ease. The benefits of hyaluronic acid include anti-ageing properties, reduced redness, and increased elasticity. Unfortunately, hyaluronic acid levels drop with age and that is why you need to apply it topically.
Glycolic Acid vs Hyaluronic Acid
Here’s the difference between glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid in simple words:
| Glycolic Acid |
Hyaluronic Acid |
| • Rejuvenates the skin |
• Moisturises thoroughly |
| • Fades dark spots |
• Keeps the skin soft |
| • Exfoliates deeply |
• Prevents Ageing |
| • Decongests clogged pores |
• Boosts wound healing |
| • Refines skin texture |
• Gives the skin a youthful glow |
Can You Use Glycolic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid Together?
You can use glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid together, but it all depends on how and when each ingredient should ideally be used. Here’s the right way to do so:
We recommend using glycolic acid before applying hyaluronic acid as its exfoliating benefits will help to slough away dead skin cells and debris, and unclog the pores by getting rid of excess sebum, dirt, and bacteria. Once all the impurities are away from the skin, you can apply hyaluronic acid as it will get absorbed quickly and hydrate your skin effectively. Having said this, if you have a skin type that feels tight and sensitive, you can try applying hyaluronic acid first and follow it up with glycolic acid. Doing so will ensure that your skin is fully moisturised and able to absorb all other formulations, resulting in a healthy complexion. You can also use one of the ingredients in your morning skincare routine and the other one in your night-time skincare routine.
How to Identify Which One Is Better For You?
From decongesting clogged pores to preventing signs of ageing, there are endless benefits of using glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid. However, it all depends on your skin type, needs and concerns. If you’re not sure of what will work the best for you, you can head to the L’Oréal Paris Skin Genuis tool that helps you analyse your skin like an expert. It studies eight skin attributes and helps to understand what works best for your skin, from the comfort of your home, without having to spend a penny. Based on 30 years of clinical data and backed by the International Board of Dermatologists, this tool is a great way to discover a personalised skincare routine effortlessly. Once you’re confident about what works for your skin, you can go ahead and try either of the two or use glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid together.
Now that you know everything about using glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid, what are you waiting for? Browse through a wide range of L’Oréal Paris Glycolic Bright and L’Oréal Paris Hyaluronic Acid skincare ranges to achieve maximum benefits and flaunt happy, healthy and radiant skin all the time!
