How to layer Glycolic Acid for maximum skin benefits

Reviva Labs has been strong advocates of Glycolic Acid for many decades. Derived from sugar cane, this naturally sourced Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) is a tremendous chemical exfoliator. As a small molecule glycolic acid is effective in both wash off and leave on products. When used in a simple “layered” routine you can see complexion results quickly.

Step One – Cleanse with our Glycolic Acid Cleanser

Our Glycolic Acid Cleanser features 3% of this potent AHA at a ±3.7 pH. This deep-acting cleanser is the perfect kick-off for your quick glycolic acid infusion. It cleanses deeply while starting the exfoliation process. It’s perfect for oily and blemished skin, aging skin, or sun-damaged complexions. True to Reviva’s nature we’ve combined glycolic acid with glycerin, allantoin, and German Chamomile Flower Extract for a well-balanced formula that’s suitable for all but the most sensitive skin types.

Step Two – Apply our Glycolic Acid Toner

After rinsing your face, apply Reviva’s Glycolic Acid Toner for your second infusion of AHA-based exfoliation. Our toner features 4.2% glycolic acid at a ±4 pH. It helps remove any cleanser residue, boosts exfoliation, while moving your skin towards its normal pH range (typically between 4.5 and 5.5 pH). Again, our Glycolic Acid Toner balances AHA with soothing ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and allantoin to minimize stinging or irritation.

Step Three – Use and leave on our 10% Glycolic Acid Crème

Our 10% Glycolic Acid Crème was reformulated in 2020 to broaden its appeal. Today, this well-balanced cream features unbuffered and buffered glycolic acid along with nourishing and skin conditioning ingredients to minimize the potential for reactions. And while some long-time fans miss the burning sensation from years past, those that give it a week or so soon recognize it’s as good or better than the old version.

Three quick steps before bed for a more radiant youthful-looking complexion in the AM

By layering your application of Glycolic Acid in three quick steps (that you likely perform each night) you’re avoiding overloading your skin. Applying a single dose of 17% glycolic acid (at a low pH) can lead to potential irritations and skin burns (if not self-neutralizing). Plus, you haven’t layered on all the other beneficial and nourishing skincare ingredients. With this simple three steps you’ve safely “accumulated the same percentage of glycolic acid” but with minimal risks.

I know if I sense a blemish forming or if my skin is looking dull I do this routine at night and wake up with skin that’s glowing! And that pesky blemish is usually nowhere to be found. It’s the perfect quick skin pick-me-up when your long days and nights have your skin looking a bit rough. Glycolic acid promotes cell turnover and breaks the keratin bonds to slough away the dead skin cells that make your skin look dull. So, instead of reaching for some overly aggressive product that could “break your skin”, treat yourself to smart skincare selfcare. Just prepare yourself to accept the complements on how good you look the next day.