Glycolic Acid vs Lactic Acid
Glycolic Acid
AHA (Sugar Cane)
IntermediateLactic Acid
AHA (Milk)
BeginnerThe strongest AHA for maximum results
A gentle AHA that is also moisturizing
TL;DR
Glycolic for max results on tolerant skin, Lactic for gentle exfoliation on sensitive skin. Start with lactic, graduate to glycolic if needed.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Glycolic is the most potent
Lactic is more gentle for beginners
Lactic has humectant properties
Glycolic stimulates collagen more strongly
Lactic is much better for beginners
Lactic has a lower risk of PIH
Detailed Breakdown
Glycolic Acid
AHA (Sugar Cane)
How It Works:
The smallest molecule among AHAs so it penetrates the deepest. Effectively dissolves the 'glue' between dead skin cells.
Best For:
- ✓Intense brightening
- ✓Anti-aging and collagen boost
- ✓Normal-oily skin
- ✓Experienced users
Less Ideal For:
- ✗Sensitive skin
- ✗Skincare beginners
- ✗Skin of color (risk of PIH)
Lactic Acid
AHA (Milk)
How It Works:
Larger molecules so it penetrates shallower and is more gentle. Plus, it has humectant effects that hydrate.
Best For:
- ✓Sensitive skin that needs exfoliation
- ✓AHA beginner
- ✓Dry skin
- ✓Gentle brightening
Less Ideal For:
- ✗For those who want max results, fast
- ✗Deep exfoliation
- ✗Skin that's already tolerant and needs something stronger
So, Which One to Choose?
Keduanya Bagus!
Glycolic for max results on tolerant skin, Lactic for gentle exfoliation on sensitive skin. Start with lactic, graduate to glycolic if needed.
🍇Pilih Glycolic Acid Kalau:
- •Normal/oily skin that's tolerant
- •Need max anti-aging results
- •Already experienced with AHA
- •No issues with irritation
🥛Pilih Lactic Acid Kalau:
- •Sensitive skin or beginners
- •Dry skin that also needs hydration
- •Cautious with exfoliation
- •Skin of color (lower PIH risk)
🤝 Pakai Keduanya Kalau:
- ✓Alternate depending on skin condition
- ✓Lactic during busy/stressed weeks, glycolic on the weekend
⚠️Hati-hati Kalau Dipakai Bersamaan
DON'T use them together - it's too irritating! Pick one per session. You can alternate: glycolic 1x a week for deep exfoliation, lactic on other days for maintenance.
Myth vs Fact
MYTH: Glycolic is better because it's stronger. FACT: Stronger ≠ better. Lactic can be just as effective with less irritation.
MYTH: Oily skin must use glycolic. FACT: Oily skin can start with lactic, especially if you're a beginner.
MYTH: Lactic can't be used for anti-aging. FACT: Lactic also has anti-aging benefits, just more gradual.
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