What it actually does: the smallest AHA molecule, so it penetrates deepest. Dissolves the glue between dead surface cells for smoother texture, better glow, and gradual fading of pigmentation. Long-term use has modest collagen-stimulation evidence too.
Who it’s for: dullness, rough texture, post-acne marks, normal-to-oily resilient skin. Not the best first acid for sensitive or dry skin (that’s lactic or a PHA), and darker skin tones should go slower - irritation itself can trigger pigmentation, which defeats the purpose.
How to use it: 5–10% leave-on, at night, starting once or twice a week. Wash-off peels above 10% are a “know what you’re doing” zone.
Plays well with: hydrators. Keep apart from: retinoids and other exfoliants on the same night.
Honest expectations: glow shows up within a couple of weeks, glycolic is gratifyingly fast. Pigmentation takes months. Overuse shows up even faster than the glow: shiny-tight skin that stings is over-exfoliated skin.
Watch out for: the sun. AHAs measurably increase sun sensitivity for days after use. Glycolic without daily sunscreen actively creates the pigmentation you bought it to fix.
The BYOUT Library is educational content, not personalised medical advice. For persistent or severe skin concerns, a dermatologist beats any article, including ours.