Glycolic Acid vs. Salicylic Acid: Unlocking the Benefits of Both Acids for Your Skin

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are both powerful skin care ingredients that can have a variety of skin benefits, but it can be difficult to choose between the two. In this guide, we’ll quickly explain the differences between glycolic acid and salicylic acid, their respective benefits, and how to choose between them.

Introduction to Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are both acids that are used in skin care products for their exfoliating, anti-aging, and acne-fighting properties. Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), and salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA). Both acids can be found in a wide variety of skin care products, ranging from cleansers and toners to moisturizers and serums.

What are AHA and BHA?

AHAs and BHAs are both types of exfoliating acids that are used to help remove dead skin cells, improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and improve the overall appearance of skin. AHAs are water-soluble and can penetrate the upper layers of skin to help exfoliate and brighten the complexion. BHAs, on the other hand, are oil-soluble and can penetrate the deeper layers of skin to help unclog pores and reduce acne.

Benefits of Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is an AHA that is commonly used in skin care products due to its exfoliating and anti-aging benefits. Glycolic acid helps to remove dead skin cells by gently breaking the keratin bonds in the stratum corneum layer (the outer surface). As a small molecule it penetrates quickly and efficiently, which makes it usable in leave on and wash off products (i.e., cleansers). By sloughing away the dead skin cells it improves skin texture, which can help make skin appear brighter and more youthful. It can also help to reduce wrinkles, decrease dark spots, and improve the overall appearance of skin.

Glycolic acid can also help to boost collagen production, which can help to plump and firm skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Additionally, glycolic acid can help to reduce redness and inflammation, which can help to improve the overall appearance of skin.

Benefits of Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a BHA that is often used to treat acne, as it can help to unclog pores and reduce blemishes. It can also help to reduce inflammation and redness, which can help to reduce the appearance of acne scars. Additionally, salicylic acid can help to reduce oil production, which can help to prevent future breakouts.

Salicylic acid can also help to exfoliate skin, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, salicylic acid can help to reduce dark spots, which can help to even out skin tone and make skin appear brighter.

Glycolic Acid vs. Salicylic Acid

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are both powerful skin care ingredients, but they have different properties and benefits. Glycolic acid is an AHA that helps to exfoliate the upper layers of skin to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and even out skin tone. Salicylic acid is a BHA that helps to unclog pores and reduce acne.

How to Use Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid can be used in a variety of skin care products, including cleansers, toners, moisturizers, and serums. It’s important to use a product that is specifically formulated for your skin type, as some products may be too harsh for sensitive skin. Additionally, it’s important to use sunscreen when using glycolic acid or salicylic acid, as they can make skin more sensitive to the sun.

Side Effects and Risks of Using AHA and BHA

AHAs and BHAs can both cause skin irritation, redness, and dryness in some people. Some individuals are unable to tolerate glycolic acid but can use salicylic acid. Additionally, AHAs can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s important to use sunscreen when using glycolic acid or other AHAs. It’s also important to start slowly and use the products only once or twice a week to avoid any side effects.

How to Choose Between Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid

Choosing between glycolic acid and salicylic acid depends on your skin care needs. If you’re looking for an exfoliating product to help reduce wrinkles and even out skin tone, then glycolic acid may be the best option. If you’re looking for a product to help reduce acne, then salicylic acid may be the better choice. Though salicylic acid also offers exfoliating benefits too.

Products Containing Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid

There are a variety of skin care products that contain both glycolic acid and salicylic acid. Some of the most popular products include cleansers, toners, and serums. Reviva offers a Glycolic Acid Cleanser, Glycolic Acid Toner, and a 10% Glycolic Acid Crème. You’ll find salicylic acid in our Light Skin Peel. Additionally, there are a variety of moisturizers and masks that contain both acids. It’s important to read the labels of products to make sure they are specifically designed for your skin type.

Both types of acids offer benefits

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are both powerful skin care ingredients with a variety of benefits. Glycolic acid is an AHA that helps to exfoliate the upper layers of skin to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and even out skin tone. Salicylic acid is a BHA that helps to unclog pores and reduce acne. Choosing between glycolic acid and salicylic acid depends on your skin care needs, but both acids can help to improve the overall appearance of skin. If you’re looking for a skin care product containing glycolic acid or salicylic acid, make sure to read the labels to ensure it is specifically formulated for your skin type.

Now that you have a better understanding of the differences between glycolic acid and salicylic acid, why not try them for yourself? Click below to browse our selection of products containing glycolic acid and salicylic acid and find the perfect one for your skin type! Or schedule a free Virtual Skincare Consultation to receive direct, firsthand guidance and skincare help.