Our 10% Glycolic Acid pads (with aloe vera) are one of our best-sellers for a reason - they can work wonders for uneven texture and dullness, bringing out smoother, more supple skin. Understanding how to use Glycolic Acid pads is key to unlocking their full potential, though.
It sounds so simple - you just swipe them on, right? Technically, yes. But the right ritual can be the difference between good results and an astounding transformation. We’ll share tips on using Glycolic Acid pads below, from prepping your skin to complementary steps.
“I use these every 3rd night and my skin has smoothed out and fine wrinkles are greatly reduced! I love this product ….recommended it to 3 others and they love it as well!” - Anne
“Love these. They actually feel like they are doing something.” - Traci
“I love these pads! They genuinely help give smoother (and clearer) skin. I use them regularly and it makes my skin feel great. I feel like it really helps remove buildup and creates healthier skin.” - Kaitlyn
What is Glycolic Acid?
This Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) comes from sugar cane. It’s a type of chemical exfoliant that loosens the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface so they can effortlessly be buffed away, paving the way for fresh skin cells. Glycolic Acid is REALLY small, so it penetrates well and works fast to smooth out rough texture and improve tone.
It’s often found in pads (like ours), but you’re not “scrubbing” the skin. That’s the big difference between physical vs chemical exfoliants. You’re letting the active ingredients do the heavy lifting. Gently wiping is all it takes to dissolve buildup, which can then be rinsed away.
Why Use Glycolic Acid Pads?
We think these Glycolic Acid pads are one of the best ways to exfoliate the face. Here’s why:
- Smoothing uneven texture, especially in areas that feel rough or bumpy
- Improving dull tone, as you remove the dead cells that scatter light
- Clearing pores by eliminating the buildup that traps oil and debris
- Minimizing how harsh fine lines look, as fresh skin replaces compacted surface cells
- Consistent dosing since each pad has a pre-measured amount. No guesswork involved!
As you’ll learn below, they’re super easy to incorporate into your skincare routine, too. But before we get into how to use Glycolic Acid pads, when should they be used in the first place?
When to Use Glycolic Acid Pads
You should use Glycolic Acid pads in the evening, usually before bed. The reason being you’re less likely to deal with UV exposure on freshly exfoliated skin.
This step comes right after cleansing on completely dry skin. That aligns with what most dermatologists recommend as far as what step exfoliation is in skincare.
It’s also important to avoid using these pads on nights you’re applying Retinol, other acids, or Vitamin C. We recommend learning more about the skin cycling routine in our blog.
How to Use Glycolic Acid Pads: Tips to Maximize Results
Most of our customers use Glycolic Acid pads one to three times a week, depending on tolerance and needs. Here’s how to use Glycolic Acid pads step by step:
- Cleanse skin thoroughly and let it completely dry. Water left on the surface can intensify acid penetration and increase irritation.
- Gently sweep a pad across the face. It’s that simple.
- Avoid the eye area and broken skin. Don’t layer or press repeatedly over the same area.
- Wait until skin feels dry to the touch before applying any follow-up products. Tingling or mild redness are normal and should settle within about 30 minutes.
- Finish with a straightforward moisturizer or facial oil to restore comfort after exfoliation.
You can really increase overnight hydration by following up with this replenishing gel mask, one of our most popular Aloe Vera skincare products. It has not only Aloe but Prickly Pear Extract and Gotu Kola.
If you’re dealing with rough texture on arms or thighs, use one pad per limb after showering. Let the liquid dry before applying a body moisturizer, like our Vitamin C & Neroli Dry Body Oil or Calendula & Tremella Nourishing Body Butter.
Or, consider adding our White Tea Antioxidant Mask for 10-15 minutes after the pad dries. Then you can rinse and finish with a nourishing facial oil like Rosehip Seed & Immortelle Regenerating Facial Oil.
Remember to wear sunscreen for at least a week after using Glycolic Acid pads. Your skin is going to be a bit more sensitive as it recovers. But, you shouldn’t deal with any sort of irritation.
What if I Experience Irritation?
If you do encounter more than mild tingling or temporary redness after using Glycolic Acid pads, you should stop usage and focus on recovery. First, rinse the skin with lukewarm water and apply a simple, hydrating product (our Aloe Vera mask linked above is a great option).
Skip Retinol, additional acids, Vitamin C, and exfoliating treatments until skin feels normal again. Cutting back on frequency often solves the problem. Using Glycolic Acid once weekly instead of multiple times per week could make a noticeable difference.
Make sure you aren't using the pads on broken or freshly shaved skin. That’s another common culprit behind irritation. Take a look at the rest of your routine to see if you may have been using other overlapping ingredients on the same night.
Final Words on How to Use Glycolic Acid Pads
There you have it, how to use Glycolic Acid pads. These are our simplest products for anyone struggling with dull skin, hyperpigmentation, or just looking for a better way to exfoliate. So, if you haven't already, stock up at Naturopathica to bring out the best in your skin.
From our hyperpigmentation products to our enzyme peels and everything in between, we apply a blend of modern skincare science and ancient botanical wisdom. Our products are Leaping Bunny Certified, too, so you can feel good about indulging in better skincare. Shop now!
Related Resources
Retinol for Hyperpigmentation | Why is Manuka Honey so Expensive | Sensitive Skin Exfoliation
Frequently asked questions
How to use Glycolic Acid pad?
Cleanse your skin, allow it to fully dry, then apply one pad evenly. Use gentle pressure - you’re not trying to scrub the dead skin cells away. Let the Glycolic Acid do the work. Avoid the eye area. Let the liquid dry before following with moisturizer or facial oil.
Do you wash off Glycolic Acid pads?
No rinsing is needed right after use. The formula is meant to stay on the skin. You should wait until it dries before applying other products, though.
How long does it take for Glycolic Acid pads to work?
You’ll probably notice a smoother texture within a few uses. Improvements in tone and fine lines usually appear after several weeks of consistent use.
Should you use Glycolic Acid pads at night or morning?
We recommend using Glycolic Acid pads at night because freshly exfoliated skin is more sensitive to light. Even still, you’ll need proper SPF before heading out of the house the next morning.
How often to use Glycolic Acid pads?
One to three times a week is all you need. Start slow and work your way up. Cut back on frequency at the first signs of irritation. Less is more!
