What is the Difference Between Glycolic Lactic and Salicylic Acid?

Glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids are all used in skincare, but they have different properties and benefits:

Glycolic Acid:

• An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that works on the outermost layer of the skin.
• Primarily exfoliates the skin, removing the top layer of dead skin cells.
• Helps reduce hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and uneven skin tone.
• Suitable for those concerned with uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines and wrinkles.

Lactic Acid:

• Also an AHA, but gentler than glycolic acid.
• Derived from fruit, milk, and other vegetables.
• Loosens the "glue" that holds dead skin cells together on the surface of the skin.
• Works well for dry or sensitive skin, as it has moisturizing properties and is less irritating.

Salicylic Acid:

• A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deeper into the skin than AHAs.
• Primarily targets congested, acne-prone skin.
• Extremely useful for acne-prone, oily skin with a tendency to become congested and mild acne.
• Penetrates deeper in the skin than AHAs to remove build-up, banish blemishes, and unclog pores.

In general, glycolic acid is better for exfoliating the skin and addressing issues like hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, while salicylic acid is better for treating acne-prone and oily skin. Lactic acid, being gentler than glycolic acid, is suitable for sensitive or dry skin types. It is possible to use glycolic and salicylic acids together if they are combined in the same product, but it is not advisable to use different products with these ingredients in consecutive order.

Comparative Table: Glycolic Lactic vs Salicylic Acid

Here is a table comparing the differences between glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid:

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane and is best suited for normal to oily skin types. It works primarily on the outermost layer of the skin, exfoliating dead skin cells and revealing brighter skin underneath.

Lactic acid is also an AHA, derived from sour milk, and is milder than glycolic acid, making it more suitable for dry or sensitive skin. It has been shown to be a good treatment for melasma and treating fine lines and bumps.

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) derived from willow tree bark and is best suited for acne-prone skin. It can penetrate deeper layers of the skin and is primarily known for its ability to clear pores and reduce inflammation.

In summary, products containing glycolic acid are suitable for dry and mature skin, whereas products containing lactic acid are suitable for sensitive skin, and products containing salicylic acid are suitable for acne-prone skin.