Lactic acid vs Glycolic acid: Can you use them together?
Lactic and glycolic acids are Alpha Hydroxy Acids commonly used in skincare due to their exfoliating properties, but which one is right for you and can you combine them? Keep reading to find out.
Table of Content:
What is the difference between lactic vs glycolic acid? | Can you use them together? | Can you find them over the counter? | How to get a prescription? | What is glycolic acid and what does it do? | What is lactic acid and what does it do?
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If you’re comparing lactic acid vs glycolic acid, you may be wondering which exfoliating acid is better for acne, sensitive skin, dark spots, or improving uneven texture. Both ingredients belong to the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family and are commonly used to exfoliate dead skin cells, brighten the complexion, and smooth the skin — but they differ in strength, penetration, and how they affect the skin barrier.
Glycolic acid has a smaller molecular size, allowing it to penetrate the skin more deeply and work more aggressively on clogged pores, rough texture, and discoloration. Lactic acid, on the other hand, is generally considered gentler and may be better tolerated by people with dry or sensitive skin because it also has hydrating properties.
In this article, you’ll learn the main differences between lactic acid and glycolic acid, how dermatologists use each ingredient for acne and skin texture concerns, and which option may be more suitable depending on your skin type, sensitivity, and skincare goals.
Because exfoliating acids can sometimes cause irritation when used incorrectly, finding the right routine for your skin is important. Through Miiskin, you can get an online consultation with licensed dermatologists and explore personalized prescription skincare treatments designed for acne, discoloration, uneven texture, sensitive skin, and other common skin concerns.
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Lactic acid vs glycolic acid: what is the difference?
Lactic acid is derived from sour milk and is milder, therefore more appropriate for sensitive skin, while glycolic acid, from sugar cane, is stronger and penetrates deeper, making it more effective for acne.
Lactic acid is recommended for dry or sensitive skin, while glycolic acid suits normal to oily skin.
You and your online dermatologist can work together to choose the best acid for you based on your skin type, concerns, and tolerance.
Which is more hydrating glycolic acid or lactic acid?
Lactic acid is recommended for people with dry, sensitive or mature skin. Through its exfoliating action, lactic acid is used to remove dead skin cells, brighten the complexion, and improve the appearance of fine lines. Unlike other acids, it is also moisturizing.
Are glycolic and lactic acid good for acne?
Yes, these two products can be used to combat acne, always keeping in mind the different skin types and adverse effects.
Can you use glycolic and lactic acids together?
You can use glycolic and lactic acid together if they are combined in the same product.
Ask for a customized formula that addresses multiple skin concerns
Can I mix vitamin C with lactic and glycolic acids?
Glycolic and lactic acids should not be mixed at the same time as vitamin C, which is also an acid. Combining these ingredients will lose the effect on the skin and may cause irritation.
What is glycolic acid and what does it do?
Glycolic acid is the most used of the alpha hydroxy acid because it improves the appearance of skin damaged by the sun, decreases the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduces hyperpigmentation and smoothens uneven skin texture4 5 .
Benefits of glycolic acid
Glycolic acid offers several advantages, including enhancing the shedding of the skin’s outermost layers, boosting hyaluronic acid levels in the skin, stimulating collagen synthesis, enhancing the integrity of elastic fibers, and exerting an inhibitory influence on melanin production6 7.
What skin type Is glycolic acid best for?
According to Dr. Carolina Fernandez Quiroga, expert dermatologist, glycolic acid is not recommended for people with sensitive or dry skin.
Precautions when using glycolic acid
- Refrain from simultaneously using multiple products containing glycolic acid
- Avoid using glycolic acid if you have recently undergone procedures like microdermabrasion that remove the top layer of your skin
- Discontinue glycolic acid use when spending time at the beach or in direct sun exposure
- Prior to combining glycolic acid with other acne medications or cosmetics, consult with your dermatologist
- Refrain from using glycolic acid concurrently with laser treatments
- Always apply sunscreen when using glycolic acid
- If you are planning to become pregnant, are already pregnant, or are breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using cosmetic products containing glycolic acid
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What is lactic acid and what does it do?
Lactic acid is one of the most common AHAs in cosmetic products, such as over-the-counter chemical exfoliants and professional chemical peels.
Lactic acid is a type of AHA derived from milk, but it can also derive from fermented sugar-rich foods; it removes the top layers of dead skin cells and increases the skin’s thickness, promoting firmness8.
Benefits of lactic acid
Lactic acid offers several skin benefits. It enhances both the texture and tone of your skin, promoting a smoother and more even complexion. Additionally, it aids in improving skin firmness, reducing the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation issues, as well as smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. Lactic acid contributes to a brighter and smoother overall complexion while also minimizing the visibility of pores, resulting in healthier-looking and more youthful skin9.
What skin type is lactic acid best for?
People with all skin types can use lactic acid; however, it is particularly recommended for sensitive, dry and mature skin.
Precautions when using lactic acid
The precautions in the use of lactic acid are similar to glycolic acid, as in any product that performs peeling, avoid using similar products at the same time, avoid high concentrations, consult your dermatologist if you want to combine it with prescription products, or others exfoliants and always use sunscreen with a high SPF factor like 50.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while glycolic and lactic acids offer skin benefits, it is important to exercise caution when using them, particularly when combining them or opting for high concentrations.
Seeking guidance from a licensed healthcare professional is advisable to avoid potential skin irritation. For tailored skincare recommendations, consider consulting with an online dermatologist who can suggest the most suitable products for your specific skin type.
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Article References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6017965/
https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/alpha-hydroxy-acids
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19245467/
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1524-4725.1996.tb00347.x
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1524-4725.1998.tb04209.x
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s004030050212
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1046/j.1524-4725.2001.00234.x
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1686/lactic-acid
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8784274/
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