Acids Without the Anxiety

Exfoliating acids are the most over-used category in modern skincare. They are genuinely useful — and genuinely easy to misuse. The anxiety around them usually comes from having seen what over-exfoliation looks like. Used correctly, they are calm and uneventful.

The two families

Glycolic works on the surface and suits dull, resilient skin. Salicylic travels into the pore and suits congestion. Lactic is the gentlest entry point. They are not interchangeable — each addresses a different concern.

What not to do

Never layer an acid with a retinoid on the same night, and always follow with sunscreen the next morning. If skin feels tight, stings on applying otherwise-tolerated products, or looks shiny and waxy, stop all exfoliation until it recovers — that is a compromised barrier, not a glow.