ACTIVE INGREDIENTS · GLYCOLIC ACID

Glycolic Acid

Smallest AHA. Refines texture, brightens tone, used carefully and not every night.

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS · GLYCOLIC ACID

The smallest AHA, doing the most at the surface.

Glycolic acid is the AHA with the smallest molecular size, which means it penetrates the outer skin layer efficiently and exfoliates at a greater depth than larger alpha-hydroxy acids. Used carefully and not every night, it refines texture, improves tone, and supports a brighter, more even surface. OVESSI uses glycolic acid in formulas that follow the Scandinavian restraint principle: the active at the concentration that performs, not at the concentration that impresses on a label.

  • The Sweep : Glycolic Exfoliating Toner The Sweep : Glycolic Exfoliating Toner

    The Sweep : Glycolic Exfoliating Toner

    Texture smooths under a cotton pad. Skin reads clearer the next morning.

    The Sweep : Glycolic Exfoliating Toner

    Texture smooths under a cotton pad. Skin reads clearer the next morning.
    €45
    €45

FREQUENTLY ASKED

Glycolic acid questions

What percentage of glycolic acid is effective?
Consumer-accessible formulas typically contain between 5% and 15% glycolic acid at a pH of 3.5 to 4.5 for genuine exfoliation. Lower concentrations may improve skin feel without significant surface renewal. OVESSI formulas are dosed for real results, used at the recommended frequency.
How does glycolic acid differ from lactic acid?
Glycolic acid has a smaller molecular size and exfoliates more deeply. Lactic acid has a larger molecule, penetrates less aggressively, and is more suited to sensitive or dry skin. Both are AHAs and both improve texture and tone, but glycolic acid is the stronger choice for more resilient skin.
Can I use glycolic acid if I have dark skin?
Yes, with care. Very high concentrations of glycolic acid can trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in deeper skin tones if the acid causes irritation. Start at a lower concentration and frequency, build slowly, and always use daily SPF when incorporating any AHA into your ritual.
Does glycolic acid work better than a physical exfoliant?
For most skin types, yes. Chemical exfoliants dissolve the bonds between dead surface cells uniformly, without the friction of physical scrubs that can cause micro-tears and unevenness. Glycolic acid provides a more even, controlled exfoliation when used at the right concentration and frequency.

Still exploring

Start at the right concentration for your skin.

Use Skin AI to identify your skin’s tolerance for glycolic acid and find the exfoliant step that performs without disrupting the barrier.