Why Does The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Make My Face Sting and What Can I Do?

The skin's natural pH is slightly acidic, around 4.7 to 5.7. Glycolic acid has a lower pH (3.0 to 4.0). This allows it to effectively penetrate the skin barrier and affect nerve endings, leading to a stinging sensation, which can be a normal response, especially if your skin is sensitive.

To reduce stinging from glycolic acid:

Mix a pea-sized amount of The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA with 3-5 drops of glycolic acid.

Apply the blend to your face to help your skin adjust gradually.
With time, you might tolerate glycolic acid without mixing.

However, if the stinging is too severe, and you cannot use the product even when diluted, or if it causes redness, itching, or a rash, then you should discontinue use.

I am not affiliated with or sponsored by any skincare company; all content is created independently.

Disclaimer: The content I share is designed to inform, educate, and entertain. I work hard to provide reliable and well-researched information based on the latest insights in skincare. While I am knowledgeable, I am not a healthcare provider. For specific advice about your skin, please consult an expert in your area.

[vintagecherries]

The EU will ban the retinol from the Ordinary and a Vitamin C from their line, by the end of 2023! Can you help us get some alternatives and talk about this ban in a video? How does it affect our skincare routines? I've been using the retinol from the Ordinary for months.. I'm sad EU is starting to ban some ingredients.. And why do they do this?

[evamainali]

Hie, i used the glycolic acid for the first time but it did not sting? Does it mean its not working

[noor.]

Hi melissa ❤️
I am breaking out badly after 2 week using The ordinary Retinol 0.2% in squalane. First two weeks nothing really happend. Then it started. They are like regular pimple its like i am breaking out but all at once. There are also some Whiteheads( some of them are closed ones and some of them are visible) and blackheads. Its the regular area that i usually break out, most of them are not painful, my skin is like peeling in that breakout area. Some of them are painful. But not itchy. Some of the area where i usually breakout or experiencing breakout now feels sensitive just by touching.

Is it really Purging or I am having acne breakouts? 😭