How to Apply Glycolic Exfoliants

If you’re a fan of DermTV, then you already know the importance of regular glycolic exfoliation for more beautiful, healthier and younger looking skin. As a matter of fact, it’s the single most important treatment you can do. But how do you actually apply your glycolic?

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I’m happy to tell you that applying glycolic products is no different than applying any other simple skincare product.

First, as with any active ingredient, to get its full benefit you must prep your skin with an oil and water, skin type appropriate cleanser and toner to remove all of the potential impediments to absorption. Your cleanser and toner will synergize to remove excess oils, dirt, debris and loose dead cells. And after finishing wiping with your toner, give it half a minute to completely evaporate, or take a soft cotton ball and gently remove any excess.

You’re now ready to apply your glycolic!

If you’re using a glycolic serum or gel, apply just a few drops with your finger to each side of your face and spread them all over, avoiding the eye area.

If using glycolic pads, gently wipe your entire face, always avoiding the eye area.

If you have a glycolic cream, put a pea sized amount in your palm and with a finger from your other hand dab tiny bits all over your face, again avoiding your eye area and then spread it around.

I recommend using glycolic at bedtime. And it should be the first product applied after you cleanse and tone… With one exception: if you’re using a blemish spot treatment and a glycolic in a cream vehicle, apply the spot treatment first.

Your glycolic treatment shouldn’t be irritating or cause your skin to turn red. The right glycolics are gentle yet effective. They may tingle for 10 seconds… which is normal… but the tingling shouldn’t increase and there shouldn’t be any burning. If there is, wash your face with water, which immediately neutralizes the glycolic.

Finally, as with most skincare, remember that less is more. Once applied, your glycolic should dry and set in less than thirty seconds. If not, you’ve used too much, tissue off the excess and next time use less.

So for more beautiful skin… it's so easy to exfoliate regularly.