Glycolic Acid

Ingredient Spotlight · Authorized Clinical Retailer

Glycolic Acid (AHA) Exfoliants & Peels

Glycolic and other alpha hydroxy acids resurface the skin’s surface — dissolving dead-cell buildup to reveal brighter, smoother, more even skin and boost glow. Ideal for dullness, texture and uneven tone. Shop clinical AHA serums, peels and exfoliating creams from professional brands including AlumierMD, Vivier, G.M. Collin, SkinMedica and afa.

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  • Alumier AHA Renewal Serum Alumier AHA Renewal Serum

    Alumier AHA Renewal Serum

    $88.00
    $88.00
    Earn 5% Cashback
  • Alumier Enzymatic Peel Alumier Enzymatic Peel

    Alumier Enzymatic Peel

    $95.00
    $95.00
    Earn 5% Cashback
  • skinbetter science Intensive AlphaRet® Overnight Cream skinbetter science Intensive AlphaRet® Overnight Cream

    skinbetter science Intensive AlphaRet® Overnight Cream

    From $145.00
    From $145.00
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  • skinbetter science AlphaRet® Overnight Cream skinbetter science AlphaRet® Overnight Cream

    skinbetter science AlphaRet® Overnight Cream

    From $145.00
    From $145.00
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  • skinbetter science Even Intensive Skin Tone Correcting Serum Even Intensive Skin Tone Correcting Serum by skinbetter science | SkinCrew, Preferred Authorized skinbetter science US Retailer

    skinbetter science Even Intensive Skin Tone Correcting Serum

    From $150.00
    From $150.00
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  • G.M. COLLIN Poly-Acid Peel Serum G.M. COLLIN Poly-Acid Peel Serum

    G.M. COLLIN Poly-Acid Peel Serum

    $90.00
    $90.00
    $90.00
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  • Vivier Ultra Purifying Clay Mask Vivier Ultra Purifying Clay Mask

    Vivier Ultra Purifying Clay Mask

    $86.00
    $86.00
    $86.00
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  • SkinCeuticals Purifying Cleanser (200 ml)

    SkinCeuticals Purifying Cleanser

    $39.00
    $39.00
  • SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser (240 ml)

    SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser

    $45.00
    $45.00
  • SkinCeuticals Glycolic Renewal Cleanser (150 ml)

    SkinCeuticals Glycolic Renewal Cleanser

    $42.00
    $42.00
  • SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight (50 ml)

    SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight

    $96.00
    $96.00
  • SkinCeuticals LHA Toner (200 ml) SkinCeuticals LHA Toner

    SkinCeuticals LHA Toner

    $44.00
    $44.00
  • SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque (60 ml) SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque

    SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque

    $70.00
    $70.00
  • SkinCeuticals Equalizing Toner (200 ml) SkinCeuticals Equalizing Toner

    SkinCeuticals Equalizing Toner

    $38.00
    $38.00
  • SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst (30 ml) SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst

    SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst

    $120.00
    $120.00
  • skinbetter science AlphaRet® Starter Set skinbetter science AlphaRet® Starter Set

    skinbetter science AlphaRet® Starter Set

    $239.00
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  • Detoxifying Scrub Mask by skinbetter science | SkinCrew, Preferred Authorized skinbetter science US Retailer Detoxifying Scrub Mask by skinbetter science, packaging | SkinCrew, Preferred Authorized skinbetter science US Retailer

    skinbetter science Detoxifying Scrub Mask

    $65.00
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  • skinbetter science Refining Foam Cleanser Refining Foam Cleanser by skinbetter science | SkinCrew, Preferred Authorized skinbetter science US Retailer

    skinbetter science Refining Foam Cleanser

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  • skinbetter science AlphaRet® Exfoliating Peel Pads AlphaRet® Exfoliating Peel Pads by skinbetter science | SkinCrew, Preferred Authorized skinbetter science US Retailer

    skinbetter science AlphaRet® Exfoliating Peel Pads

    $130.00
    $130.00
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  • G.M. COLLIN Intensive Exfoliating Gel G.M. COLLIN Intensive Exfoliating Gel

    G.M. COLLIN Intensive Exfoliating Gel

    $56.00
    $56.00
    $56.00
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  • SkinMedica AHA/BHA Cream SkinMedica AHA/BHA Cream

    SkinMedica AHA/BHA Cream

    $48.00
    $48.00
    $48.00
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  • afa® Restorative Gel Plus

    afa® Restorative Gel Plus

    $120.00
    $120.00
    $0.00
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  • afa® Restorative Gel Mild

    afa® Restorative Gel Mild

    $112.50
    $112.50
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How Glycolic Acid Brightens and Smooths Skin

Glycolic acid is the most popular alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) — and the smallest, which lets it penetrate efficiently to do its work. It dissolves the bonds holding dull, dead cells to the skin's surface, sweeping away buildup to reveal brighter, smoother, more even skin underneath. With consistent use it also stimulates collagen and helps fade discoloration.

That resurfacing action makes glycolic and other AHAs ideal for dullness, rough texture and uneven tone. Below are our best-selling AHA exfoliants and peels across AlumierMD, Vivier, G.M. Collin, SkinMedica, afa and more — plus how to use them safely.

✨

Reveals Radiance

Glycolic acid sweeps away dull, dead surface cells to uncover brighter, fresher skin beneath.

▲

Smooths Texture

Regular exfoliation refines rough, bumpy texture for a smoother, more polished surface.

🌙

Evens Tone

By accelerating cell turnover, AHAs fade dark spots and even out uneven skin tone over time.

🧱

Boosts Collagen

With consistent use, glycolic acid stimulates collagen for firmer, more youthful-looking skin.

Best-Selling AHA & Glycolic Treatments

Serums, peels and exfoliating creams that resurface and brighten. Tap any product to shop.

AlumierMD
AHA Renewal Serum
Best for: daily AHA resurfacing
$88Shop now →
AlumierMD
Enzymatic Peel
Best for: at-home brightening peel
$95Shop now →
G.M. COLLIN
Poly-Acid Peel Serum
Best for: multi-acid resurfacing
$86Shop now →
Vivier
Exfoliant Forte
Best for: intensive AHA exfoliant
$104Shop now →
afa
Restorative Gel Plus
Best for: leave-on AHA renewal gel
$120Shop now →
SkinMedica
AHA/BHA Cream
Best for: gentle daily exfoliation
$48Shop now →
G.M. COLLIN
Intensive Exfoliating Gel
Best for: resurfacing gel exfoliant
$49.60Shop now →
Vivier
AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cream
Best for: dual-acid smoothing cream
$100Shop now →

AHAs & Exfoliating Acids

The resurfacing acids that brighten and smooth.

Brighten

Glycolic Acid

The smallest AHA, it penetrates efficiently to dissolve dull surface cells, revealing brighter, smoother skin and boosting collagen.

Soften

Lactic Acid

A gentler, more hydrating AHA that exfoliates while supporting moisture — ideal for drier or more sensitive skin.

Refine

Mandelic Acid

A larger AHA that exfoliates slowly and evenly, well suited to sensitive or breakout-prone skin and uneven tone.

Renew

Enzymes

Fruit and other enzymes gently digest dead surface cells, offering a mild alternative or complement to acid exfoliation.

How to Use Glycolic Acid

Resurface safely by easing in and protecting your skin.

1
Start slow begin with one or two AHA applications a week, building up as your skin adjusts to avoid irritation.
2
Apply at night use glycolic serums, peels or creams in the evening on clean, dry skin for resurfacing while you sleep.
3
Hydrate and soothe follow with moisturizer to replenish and calm, and avoid layering with other strong actives at first.
4
Always use SPF AHAs make skin more sun-sensitive — daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is non-negotiable.

Glycolic acid is powerful — start with a low frequency and build up to avoid redness, stinging or peeling. It increases sun sensitivity, so daily SPF is essential, and you should avoid combining it with retinoids or other strong acids until your skin is well adjusted. If you have sensitive skin, a gentler AHA like lactic or mandelic acid may suit you better.

Glycolic Acid & AHAs: Frequently Asked Questions

What does glycolic acid do for skin?

Glycolic acid is an AHA that dissolves the bonds holding dull, dead cells to the skin's surface, revealing brighter, smoother skin. With consistent use it also evens tone and stimulates collagen.

Is glycolic acid good for dull skin?

Yes — it is one of the best ingredients for dullness. By sweeping away dead-cell buildup, it instantly brightens the complexion and improves radiance over time.

How often should I use glycolic acid?

Start with once or twice a week and build up as tolerated. Some gentler formulas can be used more often, but over-exfoliating causes redness and irritation — let your skin guide you.

Can glycolic acid fade dark spots?

Yes. By accelerating cell turnover, glycolic acid helps fade hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone gradually, especially when paired with brightening antioxidants and SPF.

Is glycolic acid or salicylic acid better?

They suit different needs — glycolic (an AHA) resurfaces the surface for brightness and texture, while salicylic (a BHA) gets inside pores for blackheads and breakouts. Some routines use both.

Can I use glycolic acid with retinol?

Cautiously — both increase turnover and can irritate when combined. Many people alternate nights or use them on separate days, always with moisturizer and daily SPF.

Does glycolic acid help with anti-aging?

Yes. Beyond smoothing and brightening, consistent glycolic use stimulates collagen, softening the look of fine lines and improving firmness over time.

Is glycolic acid safe for sensitive skin?

It can be irritating for very sensitive skin. Start with low concentrations and infrequent use, or choose a gentler AHA like lactic or mandelic acid instead.

Do I need sunscreen with glycolic acid?

Absolutely. AHAs make skin more sensitive to UV, so daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential to protect your skin and your results.

Can glycolic acid cause peeling?

Mild flaking can happen, especially when starting or using higher strengths. If you see significant peeling or redness, reduce frequency and focus on hydration.

What's the difference between AHA and BHA?

AHAs like glycolic are water-soluble and resurface the skin's surface for brightness and texture. BHAs like salicylic are oil-soluble and clear inside pores — better for oily, breakout-prone skin.

Why buy glycolic acid skincare from an authorized retailer?

Acid formulas are sensitive to age and storage. An authorized retailer like SkinCrew guarantees fresh, authentic, properly stored product that performs as intended.

Explore Related Concerns & Ingredients

Build a complete, connected routine. These are the concern, ingredient and skin-type hubs most often paired with Glycolic Acid at SkinCrew.

IngredientSalicylic AcidClear pores from within (BHA)Explore → IngredientRetinolRenew & resurface with vitamin AExplore → ConcernDull SkinRevive radiance & glowExplore → ConcernHyperpigmentationFade dark spots & melasmaExplore → ConcernLarge PoresMinimize the look of poresExplore → ConcernFine Lines & WrinklesSmooth lines & soften wrinklesExplore →

Read the Guides

Side-by-side comparisons and brand guides from The Skin Edit.

GuideBest Glycolic Acid and AHA ProductsPeels, pads and serumsRead → GuideBest ExfoliantsAHA, BHA, enzyme and padsRead → GuideAlphaRet vs Tretinoin vs RetinolWhich retinoid fits youRead →

Not sure which exfoliating acid is right for you?

Our clinical skincare specialists can match you with the right glycolic or AHA treatment to brighten and smooth your skin without over-doing it, from the professional brands we carry.

Talk to a SkinCrew Specialist
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