Can I use vitamin C and glycolic acid together?
Michael Gray
Updated on May 16, 2026
Luckily, you can use glycolic acid and vitamin C together. That way, you can combine the fantastic, skin-transforming benefits of both in your skin care routine. If you're looking for a skin care duo to help you achieve the dewy, radiant, even skin of your dreams, look no further.
How long after using glycolic acid can you use vitamin C?
Just ensure you leave 15 minutes in between applications to allow the skin to settle and pH levels to rebalance before any further ingredients are applied.Can you use glycolic acid with vitamin C niacinamide?
Yes and no, just like all skincare ingredients, glycolic acid and niacinamide contain formulations that have different pH levels. This can be a problem when using them together in your daily routine as the imbalance can cause the skin to become flushed, red and irritated.Can I use vitamin C in the morning and glycolic acid at night?
This will also help those with sensitive skin avoid irritation. A good rule of thumb, says Dr. Lee, is to apply vitamin C in the morning (to maximize its antioxidant potential), and AHAs like glycolic acid at night (to minimize its photosensitizing tendencies).What can you combine with glycolic acid?
One ingredient that can be layered with glycolic acid with no worry of irritation is hyaluronic acid as this humectant can instantly hydrate the skin and aid replenishment, this is an ideal teammate for glycolic acid as it avoids any chances of the skin feeling tight, dry or irritated.Can I use AHA (Glycolic Acid or Lactic Acid) with Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Is glycolic acid or vitamin C better?
The benefits: it has better bioavailability (how well the skin can use an ingredient), is more efficacious, and has 55% higher antioxidant power than traditional vitamin C. Can I combine vitamin C and glycolic acid?Can I use glycolic acid everyday?
Is Glycolic Acid okay for everyday use? Depending on the concentration, yes, you can use Glycolic Acid every day. If you're new to chemical exfoliants, you should work up to using it every day slowly rather than overdoing it at the beginning.Can I use glycolic acid with vitamin C and retinol?
Just take care to avoid applying any products containing active ingredients, like vitamin C, directly after using glycolic acid. You'll also want to avoid using other AHAs with glycolic acid, since mixing them can cause a reaction.Can I use AHA and vitamin C together?
Option 2: Layering Vitamin C + AHA/BHA Together. Acids can enhance the potency of vitamin C. If your skin can tolerate them, it's possible to use acids at the exact same time as vitamin C.When should I use glycolic acid in routine?
Glycolic acid should always be applied in the evening, as it makes your skin sensitive to sunlight. Applying it at night gives ample time for it to do its magic without a higher risk or damaging your skin in the sun.Does glycolic acid make dark spots worse?
"If you're looking to clear up discolouration in darker skin tones, overuse of AHAs can cause the skin to react, leading to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation – so you end up going around in circles."Can I use 7% glycolic acid everyday?
Don't use it daily otherwise you risk damaging your skin barrier by over-exfoliating. Do not apply it on damp skin! Glycolic Acid increases sensitivity towards the sun so a good sunscreen is mandatory.Does glycolic acid shrink pores?
Additionally, for those looking for a more intense treatment, an over-the-counter glycolic acid peel or mask is a great way to speed up the exfoliation process and shrink the appearance of pores over time. Glycolic acid is also killer at reducing pore size, thanks to its ability to boost collagen production.What serums should not be mixed?
Don't Mix: Retinol with vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, and AHA/BHA acids. AHA and BHA acids are exfoliating, which can dry out skin and cause further irritation if your skincare routine already includes retinol.What can be layered with vitamin C?
Ingredients You Can Layer With Vitamin C
- Niacinamide. Also popular as vitamin B3, niacinamide is a pro at reducing inflammation and helping improve hyperpigmentation and wrinkles in the skin. ...
- Hyaluronic Acid. ...
- Vitamin E. ...
- Ferulic Acid. ...
- Sunscreen. ...
- Retinol. ...
- AHAs/BHAs. ...
- Do: Use Daily.