Keep reading to know...
If your skincare routine could use a little ‘glow up’, consider glycolic acid for skin to be your holy grail. This dermatologist-favourite active isn’t just another buzzword to add to the skin glossary; it’s an exfoliating hero that helps brighten dullness, smooth uneven texture, and fade dark spots, pigmentation, and other blemishes that bring your skin down. Think of using a glycolic acid serum as your skin’s reset button — it sloughs off dead cells, revealing a more radiant complexion.
“It is the smallest molecule belonging to the family of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs),” explains Dr Khushboo Jha, chief dermatologist consultant, Metro Hospital and founder, One Skin Clinic. “Glycolic acid gets easily absorbed into the skin when compared with other AHAs.” Why is it so essential? Because it is potent enough to tackle multiple skin issues simultaneously, making it a multitasking ingredient. Diving deeper, Dr Jha breaks down exactly why a glycolic acid serum deserves a spot on your top shelf — and how to use it without freaking out your face.
Glycolic Acid Serum Benefits For Skin
1: An Exfoliating Elixir

Glycolic acid serums help exfoliate the skin by removing dead skin cells. Since it’s an AHA, it gently dissolves the glue that holds dead skin cells together — and with time, this reveals a brighter complexion and more even-toned and smooth skin texture.
2: Brightens Dull Skin

“It helps in skin brightening and fades away dullness by increasing cellular turnover,” says Dr Jha. Due to its exfoliating nature, using a glycolic acid serum helps slough off dirt, grime, and other buildup, and also promotes skin cell turnover. The result? Brighter and radiant skin.
3: It Makes Skin Plump

Glycolic acid acts as a humectant, meaning it attracts water to the skin, giving it that plump, radiant look, says Dr Jha. Incorporating a glycolic acid serum into your routine can help deliver that coveted youthful glow with minimal effort.
4: Fades Dark Spots & Hyperpigmentation

One of the standout glycolic acid serum benefits? Its ability to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation. By exfoliating the skin and boosting cell turnover, it helps diminish acne marks, sun spots, and other forms of discolouration for a more even-toned, radiant complexion.
5: Minimises The Signs Of Skin Ageing

Did you know that a glycolic acid serum can also help reduce the signs of skin ageing? “It does this by giving stimulation to fibroblasts that produce more collagen and elastin, the essential structural proteins of the skin matrix,” explains Dr Jha.
6: Unclogs Pores, Prevents Future Breakouts

Thanks to its exfoliating superpowers, glycolic acid for skin helps sweep away excess sebum and debris from deep within the pores, making it a go-to for acne-prone skin and anyone looking to keep future breakouts at bay.
7: Increase Efficacy Of Other Skincare Products

By sloughing off that layer of dead skin cells, glycolic acid serums help other skincare essentials — serums, moisturisers, and targeted treatments — to absorb more effectively, boosting their overall impact and efficacy.
How To Use Glycolic Acid Serum Effectively
According to Dr Jha, most people see the best results when using glycolic acid serum at night, since using it during the day can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. That said, morning use isn’t off the table — as long as you’re diligent about applying (and reapplying) SPF. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a glycolic acid serum the right way.
Step 1: Cleanser

Good skincare starts with a clean slate. Whether it’s AM or PM, begin your routine by gently cleansing your face and neck.
Step 2: Apply Glycolic Acid Serum

- It’s time to reach for your glycolic acid serum! Apply 2-3 drops to palms and gently pat the formula on your face and neck.
- You can even use your palms and fingertips to gently massage the product into your skin — avoid delicate areas like your undereye and lips
- Please wait 1 to 2 minutes before going into the next step of your skincare routine, as this allows the glycolic acid serum to fully absorb into the skin.
Pro Tip: If you have dry skin, Dr Jha recommends using a hydrating toner beforehand to help keep skin balanced. Oily or combination skin types can use glycolic acid in the morning — but it’s essential to follow up with a hydrating moisturiser and a broad-spectrum SPF 50 to protect your skin throughout the day.
Recommended frequency:
- Oily-combination skin - 3 to 4 nights per week, building up to daily if tolerated
- Normal skin - 2-3 nights per week
- Dry skin - 1-2 nights per week
- Sensitive skin - Patch-test first, then begin with 1 night per week (avoid AM use entirely)
Step 3: Moisturiser

Lock in all the glow-boosting benefits of your glycolic acid serum with a trusted moisturiser. If you have oily or combination skin, reach for a lightweight gel formula. Normal skin types can follow up with a hydrating moisturiser, while dry skin will benefit most from a richer cream, especially at night. And for sensitive skin? A barrier-repair moisturiser is a must to help soothe and protect immediately after application.
LAKMĒ GLYCOLIC ILLUMINATE DAY CREAM
Bonus: Best Ingredients To Pair With Glycolic Acid
Who doesn’t love a good skincare cocktail, right? Elevate your routine by pairing the right ingredients with your glycolic acid serum for that ultimate glow.
1. Niacinamide For Brightening

If glycolic acid is the life of the party, niacinamide is the friend who makes sure you drink water and get home safe. “Niacinamide helps reduce irritation and supports the skin’s barrier,” says Dr Jha—meaning it keeps your glow-up in check. Bonus: it also brightens, so when paired with glycolic acid, you get double the radiance with none of the drama.
2. Hyaluronic Acid For Hydration

After exfoliating with glycolic acid, your skin may feel slightly tight or dry. That's where hyaluronic acid steps in. This hydration powerhouse draws moisture into the skin, helping to replenish and soothe post-exfoliation. Layering a hyaluronic acid serum after glycolic acid ensures your skin stays plump, dewy, and well-hydrated.
3. Peptides For Anti-Ageing Effects

Once glycolic acid has done its smoothing, peptides step in to lift and firm. They help support collagen production, making your skin feel bouncier and more resilient.
4. Azelaic Acid To Soothe Sensitivity

Azelaic acid is another excellent companion to glycolic acid, especially if hyperpigmentation is a concern. It helps fade dark spots and uneven patches without the risk of irritation often associated with stronger actives. When used in rotation with glycolic acid, it offers a more gentle yet effective approach to skin tone correction.
5. Vitamin C (AM) + Glycolic Acid (PM) = The ultimate brightening duo
%20+%20Glycolic%20Acid%20(PM)%20The%20ultimate%20brightening%20duo.png)
While using glycolic acid and vitamin C at the same time isn’t always recommended due to potential irritation, separating them can do wonders for dullness and pigmentation. Vitamin C protects against environmental damage and boosts brightness during the day, while glycolic acid works overnight to refine texture and fade dark spots, making this a winning routine for glowing skin.
As much as we love a power pairing, glycolic acid doesn’t play well with everyone. First up: retinol and retinoids—a combo that sounds promising but can leave your skin red, irritated, and begging for a break. The same goes for layering other AHAs or BHAs in the same routine. More exfoliation doesn’t mean more glow—it just means more chance of overdoing it.
“Ingredients like benzoyl peroxide can cause dryness, irritation, and redness when used alongside glycolic acid,” warns Dr. Jha. And if you’re thinking of doubling down with a strong vitamin C in the same session? Not so fast. Especially for sensitive skin, that pairing can lead to stinging and discomfort.
Additionally, always apply glycolic acid to fully dry skin to avoid deeper, harsher penetration. Rule number two: buffer with moisturiser before or after application — known as the sandwich method — if you have increased sensitivity. And rule number three: introduce your glycolic acid serums slowly — start with once to twice a week at first, and then build it up.
Glycolic Acid Serum, Before And After: What To Expect
No skincare active works miracles overnight, and it’s the same with a glycolic acid serum. That said, according to Dr. Jha, you might notice softer, smoother skin and a subtle glow as soon as the next morning after your first application. “After a week of consistent use, skin texture visibly improves, radiance gets a boost, and surface-level pigmentation starts to fade,” she says. Those with acne-prone skin may also experience a bit of mild peeling — nothing to panic about, just your skin doing its thing.
Stick with it, and by the one-month mark, you’re likely to see a real transformation: brighter, smoother skin, with fine lines softened and hyperpigmented patches fading, especially when paired with daily SPF.
Best Glycolic Acid Serum Options To Try
Curious about the buzz? Here are some of the best glycolic acid serums that will instantly get you glowing!
Lakmē Glycolic Illuminate Serum With 1% Glycolic Acid
If your skin’s feeling a little dull and in need of a pick-me-up, Lakmé’s Glycolic Illuminate Serum might just be your fix. Powered by 1 per cent glycolic acid, it gently exfoliates dead skin cells, smooths out rough texture, and boosts overall radiance. Think of it as hitting the refresh button for tired, uneven skin—perfect for anyone looking to bring back that lit-from-within glow.
Potential Side Effects Of Glycolic Acid Serum
Glycolic acid can be a potent ingredient on the skin, and therefore needs to be used with caution. Here are some of the potential side effects of glycolic acid serum and common mistakes you need to be wary of.
#1: Skin Irritation Or Redness

According to Dr Jha, there can be skin redness, stinging sensations, and skin peeling, especially if overused. “Skin becomes sensitive to the sun and the risk of sunburn also increases,” she says. “There may also be temporary purging in acne-prone skin.” Daily overuse can disturb the skin’s defence barrier, irritating it too. “When you jump directly to a high concentration of glycolic acid, say 10-20 per cent, without building your body’s tolerance, it makes the skin red and flaky.”
And always wear sunscreen! If you skip sunscreen while applying glycolic acid, you are basically depriving your skin of any benefits – this may result in more pigmentation.
#2: Purging Or Breakouts

Some may experience temporary purging or breakouts, such as small pimples or whiteheads, after first introducing glycolic acid into their routine.
#3: Reaction By Pairing Wrong Ingredients

As much as we love a power pairing, glycolic acid doesn’t play well with everyone. First up: retinol and retinoids — a combo that sounds promising but can leave your skin red, irritated, and begging for a break. The same goes for layering other AHAs or BHAs in the same routine. More exfoliation doesn’t mean more glow; it just means more chance of overdoing it.
“Ingredients like benzoyl peroxide can cause dryness, irritation, and redness when used alongside glycolic acid,” warns Dr. Jha. And if you’re thinking of doubling down with a strong vitamin C in the same session? Not so fast. Especially for sensitive skin, that pairing can lead to stinging and discomfort.
#4: Applying To Damp Skin

When applied to damp skin, there are higher chances for the glycolic acid serum to cause skin irritation. “This is because damp skin absorbs more glycolic acid, resulting in deeper penetration into the skin.”
While glycolic acid isn’t a new ingredient, it has definitely gained its reputation for being one of the best glow-inducers in your skincare arsenal. Whether you’re looking for smooth texture, faded spots paired with acne control, or are simply chasing that natural, radiant complexion, a good glycolic acid serum delivers without any disappointment.
FAQs On Glycolic Acid Serum
Q. What Is Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, brightens your complexion, and promotes skin cell turnover.
Q. What Are The Benefits Of Using A Glycolic Acid Serum?
The benefits of using a glycolic acid serum include brightening dullness, fading dark spots and pigmentation, reducing acne and the early signs of skin ageing, smoothing skin texture, and boosting overall complexion and skin radiance.
Q. Are glycolic acid serums safe for sensitive skin?
Yes, glycolic acid serums are safe for sensitive skin. That said, it may be too strong for this skin type, and therefore starting with lower concentrations at less frequency may help build tolerance for the ingredient.
Q. Can Glycolic Acid Serums Be Used Every Day?
The everyday use of glycolic acid serums depends on your skin type. Oily-combination skin can use it 3 to 4 nights per week, building up to daily if tolerated. Those with normal skin can use it 2-3 nights per week, while those with dry skin, 1-2 nights per week. People with sensitive skin should patch-test first, then begin with 1 night per week.
Q. Is Glycolic Acid Serum Good For Acne-Prone Skin?
Yes, glycolic acid serum is good for acne-prone skin as it helps unclog pores, reduce future breakouts, and even fades away any acne marks or blemishes.