May 9, 2010
Mixing glycolic acid with salicylic acid?
Hi, I am on a face program that I've had for about 4-5 months now. At first, my acne seemed to be clearing up, but now there's no difference. My face looks just as bad as it did before I started the treatment..if not worse. As a matter of fact, I did my face program that I bought from the dermatologist MADE special BY that particular dermatologist's office, and woke up this morning with yet ANOTHER "blemish". I just read this morning that you cannot use retinol, glycolic acid (aka AHA's), vitamin C, and benzoyl peroxide because it will cause inflammation to your face.
The routine that I bought from the dermatologist's office has an active ingredient of Salicylic acid 2% and inactive ingredient Glycolic acid 5%. I also have a every-night program to put retinol on my face. Is the mixture of Salicylic acid and Glycolic acid causing my face to break out? Also, is the retinol not doing any benefit, too?
Thank you for your help:)
Filed under Vitamin Acne Treatment by omercoil
Comments on Mixing glycolic acid with salicylic acid?
Glycolic acid is a very effective exfoliator and salicylic acid is a staple with helping break outs. Retinols (Vitamin A) are excellent topical blemish fighters as well, it mildly exfoliates the skin and makes it soft. I don't think combining all of these ingredients at once is the best way to harness their power. I would take it easy on the products. I recommend:
1. Light foaming cleanser
2. Toner, this can contain salicylic acid. I prefer tea tree oil toners, I visibly see tea tree oil heal my skin overnight
3. I like nuetregna products that contain a little retinol, but experiment and find the right light moisturizer for you. clean and clear has a light moisturizer which contains salicylic acid.
Remember to eat healthy, mostly fruits, vegetables, and foods high in omega 3 like salmon and flax seed. Drink 7 glasses of water a day and antioxidant rich juices like pomegranate juice.