Glycolic Acid for Glowing Skin: Benefits, Safety, and Synergistic Effects

If there’s one skincare ingredient that quietly transforms dull, uneven skin into a luminous canvas, it’s glycolic acid. Known as the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), glycolic acid penetrates deeper than most exfoliants, sloughing away dead skin cells, hydrating, and revealing a fresher layer underneath.

In this guide, we’ll explore what glycolic acid is, how it works, its safe concentrations, its natural sources, and how combining it with other actives like Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Arbutin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Licorice Extract can create skincare magic.  

 

What is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is a naturally occurring alpha-hydroxy acid found in sugarcane, sugar beets, and certain fruits like pineapple. It’s colorless, water-soluble, and prized in dermatology for its ability to:
• Exfoliate by breaking down bonds between dead skin cells.
• Improve hydration by drawing water into the skin.
• Stimulate collagen production for firmer, smoother skin.
 
According to a 2024 review in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (source), glycolic acid’s small molecular size allows it to penetrate deeply, making it effective for treating dullness, pigmentation, uneven texture, and signs of aging.

 

Safe Concentrations for Face & Body

• Face: Dermatologists generally recommend 5–10% glycolic acid in cleansers, toners, or serums for at-home use.
• Body: Because the skin is thicker, body washes or lotions can contain 8–12% glycolic acid, often combined with lactic acid for a gentler effect.
• Professional Peels: 20–70% concentrations are performed under medical supervision.
 
 Tip: If you’re new to glycolic acid, start with lower percentages to allow your skin barrier to adapt.
 

How Glycolic Acid Works on the Skin

1. Breaks Down Dead Skin Cells → Reveals smoother skin.
2. Boosts Cell Turnover → Improves skin clarity & evenness.
3. Enhances Ingredient Absorption → Makes serums like Vitamin C or Niacinamide more effective.
4. Fades Pigmentation → Useful for dark spots, post-acne marks, and body pigmentation.
 

Can You Use Glycolic Acid with Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Arbutin, and Hyaluronic Acid? 

Yes — but with some science-backed considerations:


You can safely use glycolic acid with Vitamin C, but dermatologists often recommend applying them at different times of the day — glycolic acid in the evening to exfoliate and prep the skin, and Vitamin C in the morning to protect against free radicals, brighten, and boost collagen.

Niacinamide pairs beautifully with glycolic acid and can be layered or alternated in your routine to calm redness, strengthen the skin barrier, and even skin tone.

Arbutin works synergistically with glycolic acid to target pigmentation and enhance overall brightening effects, making it ideal for tackling stubborn dark spots.

Hyaluronic acid is the perfect partner post-glycolic exfoliation, flooding the skin with deep hydration and keeping it plump.

Lastly, Licorice Extract — as seen in CLARÉA Exfoliating Body Wash — not only soothes irritation but also enhances glow and reduces pigmentation, making it a gentle yet powerful addition to a glycolic-based skincare routine.

 

Synergy Spotlight: 

In CLARÉA Exfoliating Body Wash, glycolic acid is paired with Licorice Extract, to gently exfoliate textured areas like neck, elbows, knees, and underarms, while Glycerin maintain hydration. This formula is soap-free, alcohol-free, cruelty-free, and suitable for all skin types, even during pregnancy.

 

Glycolic Acid for the Body: Beyond the Face

 
While most people associate glycolic acid with facial serums, it’s equally powerful for:
• Body Acne & Back Acne
• Strawberry Skin
• Post-body acne marks
• Uneven skin tone in underarms & knees
• Dryness & rough patches
 
For these concerns, AHA/BHA body washes combining glycolic, and licorice  — like NK Botanica’s CLARÉA formula — deliver both exfoliation and hydration.
 

Sun Sensitivity & Protection 

One important note: AHAs like glycolic acid can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays.
• Always follow with CLARÉA Glow Shield SPF 50 Tinted Sunscreen in the morning.
• Look for broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to protect your new skin cells.
 

Best Practices for Using Glycolic Acid 

1. Patch Test before first use.
2. Start with once or twice a week, increasing as tolerated.
3. Pair with hydrating ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid or Aloe Vera Extract.
4. Avoid over-exfoliating — listen to your skin. 
 

Where to Find Glycolic Acid in NK Botanica Products

• CLARÉA Exfoliating Body Wash — With glycolic acid, licorice extract and glycerin for full-body glow. 

Final Word 

Glycolic acid isn’t just another exfoliant — it’s the “glow molecule” that bridges skincare science and nature. From improving texture and tone to enhancing the efficacy of your favorite serums, it’s a powerhouse worth adding to your routine.

And with NK Botanica’s dermatologist-tested, cruelty-free, paraben-free formulations, you can unlock its benefits safely and effectively.

"Glow is not a filter — it’s science, and glycolic acid is the formula."

Discover glycolic acid, the ultimate glow molecule for brighter, smoother skin. Learn its benefits, safe concentrations, and synergy with ingredients like licorice extract in NK Botanica’s CLARÉA EXFOLIATING BODY WASH