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Glycolic Acid Products in Pakistan
Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane, is a powerful chemical exfoliant that promotes skin exfoliation by removing dead skin cells and stimulating cell turnover.
A 2020 study found that glycolic acid offers multiple skin benefits. It boosts levels of hyaluronic acid, which keeps the skin hydrated, and promotes the production of collagen, the protein responsible for skin structure.
It also speeds up the growth of fibroblasts and keratinocytes, essential cells for skin repair and regeneration, while improving the quality of elastin, which helps maintain skin elasticity.
Research from 2018 also highlighted its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, which may aid in managing acne.
If you are not using glycolic acid or any other form of AHAs, you might be missing a vital step in your skincare routine.
Glycolic acid reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin texture, and promotes collagen production, giving the skin a more youthful look.
It also targets pigmentation by fading dark spots and promoting an even skin tone.
In this guide, we will explore some of the best quality glycolic acid creams, serums, and toners available in Pakistan.
List of the Best Glycolic Acid Products in Pakistan
- L’Oreal Paris Glycolic Bright Instant Glowing Face Serum
- The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Toner
- Trego Skin Brightening Toner
- Eveline Beauty & Glow Acid Power! With 5% Glycolic Acid Illuminating Toner
- The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7%Exfoliating Toner
- Glee Skin Glycolic Acid Cream-Advance Smoothing Therapy
- BIO ONE GLYCOLIC ACID CREAM 12%
- Motate Glycolic Acid Cream 10%
- Apieu – Glycolic Acid Cream
1. L’Oreal Paris Glycolic Bright Instant Glowing Face Serum
This works best for beginners as it contains 1% glycolic acid. This serum is affordable and is used by many consumers in Pakistan with positive reviews.
Infused with 1.0% Glycolic Acid, it is clinically proven to swiftly enhance skin radiance and diminish dark spots.
Experience immediate luminosity and a visibly glowing complexion.
If you have already used glycolic acid and your skin has built some tolerance to it, then you can try L’Oreal Paris Revitalift 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Face Serum.
Price: 1,300.00 (At Publish Time)
2. The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Toner
Experience the transformative power of The INKEY List Glycolic Acid Toner, a gentle yet potent formula designed to unveil radiant, youthful skin.
With 10% glycolic acid, it effectively minimizes pores and diminishes fine lines, leaving behind a smoother, more luminous complexion.
This toner works wonders on dullness, uneven texture, dark spots, and signs of aging, encouraging cellular turnover for a revitalized appearance.
Price: 4,960 PKR
3. Trego Skin Brightening & Lightening Toner
Trego Glycolic Acid 5% Toner also contains tartaric acid, a milder AHA compared to glycolic acid. Tartaric acid enhances the exfoliating effect of glycolic acid, making the toner even more effective for smooth, radiant skin.
This toner is suitable for all skin types and helps brighten and lighten the skin. It effectively addresses melasma and freckles, and reduces dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles.
It also minimizes the appearance of pores. Additionally, tartaric acid works with glycolic acid to treat strawberry legs, underarm odor, and dark patches on the body.
“Strawberry legs refers to the appearance of dark spots or small, dark dots on the skin, usually on the legs. This condition is caused by clogged hair follicles, often due to dead skin cells, dirt, or ingrown hairs. It can resemble the seeds on the surface of a strawberry, which is why it is called strawberry legs. “
Price: 1,100 PKR
4. Eveline Beauty & Glow Acid Power
Eveline Serum features 5% glycolic acid that gently exfoliates, minimizing pores and imperfections. With French rose hydrolate, it refreshes and enhances skin’s natural glow.
IllumiGlow™ delivers instant illumination, reducing wrinkles and discolorations.
Aloe vera extract soothes irritation, while carrot, kale, and lemon ferments provide natural antioxidants to slow down aging.
Price: 2,215 PKR
5. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7%Exfoliating Toner
Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner (formerly known as Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution) is a powerful exfoliator that effectively smoothens skin texture and enhances the appearance of a more even skin tone.
Regular use reveals a luminous complexion while reducing the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.
Designed for daily use, its water-based formula ensures gentle yet effective results.
Price: 4,950 PKR
Now, let’s explore some of the top glycolic acid creams available in Pakistan.
6. Glee Skin Glycolic Acid Cream-Advance Smoothing Therapy
Glee Skin Cream, a medicated glycolic acid cream in Pakistan, features a special blend of 10% Glycolic Acid and Allantoin. This combination gently enhances your skin’s youthful glow over time.
I have used this glycolic acid cream for a long time. It is a very gentle formula and is best for new users.
However, you should still use it with a moisturizer to avoid any irritation, and then use it alone if your skin can tolerate it.
The result is a smoother, refined, and radiant complexion.
Price: 700 PKR
7. Bio One Glycolic Acid Cream 12%
Bio One Glycolic Acid Creams are highly popular in Pakistan, widely embraced across the country.
These creams contain a gentle, time-release form of glycolic acid that gradually promotes a more youthful complexion.
The skin is left smooth, refined, and radiant. It is also available in 5 and 10% strength.
When I used Bio One 12% Glycolic Acid Cream, I found the formula to be quite strong and irritating for my skin. It caused a burning sensation, although this subsided after 5 to 10 minutes of application.
Now, I have switched to Gleeskin Glycolic Acid Cream 10%, which is gentler, less irritating, and provides more hydration.
If you are new to using glycolic acid, start with 5% Bio one glycolic acid.
Price: 1,250 PKR
8. Motate Glycolic Acid Cream 10%
Motate Glycolic Acid Cream 10% is also a medicated skincare product formulated with a 10% concentration of glycolic acid.
This cream is designed to provide exfoliation, promoting smoother and more radiant skin over time.
With regular use, it aims to enhance skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and contribute to a healthier complexion.
Price: 1,160 PKR
9. Apieu – Glycolic Acid Cream
This unique AHA/BHA peel uses glycolic and salicylic acid to gently remove dead skin, helping to reduce scars and leaving skin soft, smooth, and bright.
With 3% AHA glycolic acid and 0.45% BHA, White birch extract helps keep your skin smooth and moisturized after each treatment.
It’s also formulated with 30% birch juice to deeply hydrate skin and create a long-lasting moisture barrier.
It’s a unique acid treatment that doesn’t strip of skin moisture but leaves skin brighter and smoother, and ready for makeup application.
It is expensive but worth the price.
Price: 4,499 PKR
Should You Use Glycolic Acid Toner, Serum, or Cream?
Choosing between a glycolic acid toner, serum, or cream depends on your skin type and specific needs.
Glycolic Acid Toner: Best for oily or acne-prone skin. Toners are lightweight and help to unclog pores and reduce oil without feeling heavy on the skin. They also prep the skin for other products.
Glycolic Acid Serum: Serums are more concentrated and work well for targeting specific concerns like fine lines, dark spots, or uneven texture.
Glycolic Acid Cream: Ideal for dry or sensitive skin types. Creams are thicker and more moisturizing, helping to soothe the skin while delivering the exfoliating benefits of glycolic acid.
Among these forms, serums are more potent and provide quicker benefits for the skin as they penetrate deeper. However, they can also be more irritating, so it’s best to use serums only if your skin can tolerate them.
Toners absorb quickly and are ideal for oily, acne-prone skin, but they don’t penetrate as deeply as serums. Toners can sometimes cause redness and irritation.
Glycolic acid creams, on the other hand, are preferred by many users because they penetrate more slowly over a longer period, leading to less irritation and sensitivity. Creams also contain moisturizing ingredients, making them the best option for dry skin.
Also read: 6 Best Salicylic Acid Serums in Pakistan
Benefits of Glycolic Acid for Your Skin
Glycolic acid provides a wide range of advantages for skincare. Here are some of the key benefits of incorporating glycolic acid into your routine:
- Powerful Exfoliation
Glycolic acid is a highly effective exfoliant due to its small molecular size, allowing it to penetrate deeply into the skin. It breaks down the bonds holding dead skin cells together, revealing fresher, younger-looking skin while improving texture and tone.
- Smoother Skin
With regular use, glycolic acid promotes the shedding of dead skin cells, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and rough patches. This process leaves your skin smoother and more refined.
- Boosts Collagen Production
Glycolic acid stimulates collagen production, which is vital for maintaining the skin’s firmness and elasticity. Increased collagen levels lead to improved skin texture and a reduction in visible signs of aging, such as fine lines and sagging.
- Reduces Hyperpigmentation
Glycolic acid effectively lightens hyperpigmentation, including dark spots, sunspots, and acne scars. By promoting cell turnover, it helps to even out skin tone, leading to a more balanced and radiant complexion.
- Acne Treatment
Glycolic acid is beneficial in treating acne by clearing out clogged pores and reducing sebum build-up. It helps prevent the formation of blackheads and whiteheads, resulting in fewer breakouts and a clearer complexion.
- Enhances Product Absorption
By exfoliating the top layer of the skin, glycolic acid improves the absorption of other skincare ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide and retinol.
Active ingredients in serums, moisturizers, and treatments can penetrate more deeply, maximizing their effectiveness and leaving your skin brighter and more vibrant.
How to Use Glycolic Acid in Your skincare routine
Using glycolic acid correctly is crucial to avoid damaging your skin. Overuse can breach and damage your skin barrier, so it is best to use it 2-3 times a week in the winter.
During the summer, you should reduce the frequency even more, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Avoid combining it with other potent skincare ingredients like vitamin C or retinol, as this can increase skin sensitivity; use them on alternate nights instead.
Begin with a low concentration and gradually increase the frequency or potency as your skin adjusts. Always wear sunscreen during the day, as glycolic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Additionally, perform a patch test before applying glycolic acid to your entire face, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Is Glycolic Acid Suitable for All Skin Types?
Yes, Every skin type can and should use glycolic acid.
Glycolic acid is an effective exfoliant that can help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and brighten the complexion.
Individuals with oily skin can incorporate both salicylic acid and glycolic acid into their skincare routine for optimal results.
Salicylic acid can target acne and oil, while glycolic acid provides anti-aging benefits and overall skin rejuvenation.
How to Incorporate Glycolic Acid into Your Skincare Routine
Start with a Low Concentration
If you are new to glycolic acid, it is crucial to start with a low concentration to prevent skin irritation or inflammation.
Begin with a product that contains 5-% or less glycolic acid, and gradually increase the concentration as your skin becomes accustomed to it.
Use Glycolic Acid at Night
Glycolic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it is best to use it in your nighttime routine.
After cleansing, apply a glycolic acid toner or serum, then follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and avoid dryness.
Apply Sunscreen Daily
As glycolic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, it is essential to use sunscreen or sunblock every day.
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Glycolic Acid as an Anti-Aging Ingredient
Glycolic acid is a crucial ingredient for achieving a younger, fresher look.
Read also: Your Guide to the 10 Most Effective Anti-Aging Ingredients
It effectively removes dead skin cells, reducing the formation of wrinkles and fine lines.
By exfoliating the skin and promoting cell turnover, glycolic acid reveals a smoother, more youthful complexion and improves skin texture and tone.
It also enhances skin hydration, making it look plumper and more radiant, and regular use can significantly diminish age spots and hyperpigmentation.
Including glycolic acid and retinol serum in your skincare routine can help prevent premature aging, but it’s important to understand how to use these potent ingredients to avoid skin irritation and peeling.
Related:
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Biofad Cream Review: Does This Lightening System Really Work?
8 Best Retinol Creams In Pakistan
Education: University of Peshawar
Abrar Ahmad holds a Master’s degree in Chemistry and has been writing about skincare for over five years. With a deep understanding of ingredients and their impact on the skin, he enjoys sharing practical, science-based skincare advice. When not writing, he loves playing with his kids.
