Which is better? Salicylic or Glycolic?

 

Is a glycolic based product best for my skin?

Or is a Vitamin A (retin-A) okay, or should I try something else?

  How do I choose?  Which is best?

   So, you’re standing in the middle of the aisle in the drug store or at the beauty county.  You see tons of products, and   they all have some sort of “acid” in them, whether alpha hydroxy acid, beta hydroxy acid, salicylic, glycolic, lactic, kojic, or something.  You’re probably overwhelmed, and it is easy to feel that way.  Below is a simple chart to help you understand some of the basic differences between salicylic and glycolic acid.  As you read the chart, you’ll see that becomes clearer and clearer that the answer is, “it depends.”  This is really true.  Whether one product or ingredient works best for you depends on what is going on with you.  This includes your skin type, skin sensitivities and lifestyle.

 

Salicylic Acid	Glycolic Acid
Chemical peels and over the counter skincare products commonly contain both of these products. You should choose the product according to how your skin is behaving and in consultation with a skincare specialist.
Comes from plants and one of its derivatives is aspirin. If you have an aspirin allergy, avoid salicylic acid products until you speak with your doctor.	Derived from sugarcane; however, it can be produced with synthetic ingredients.
Regardless of your skintype, acne needs three ingredients to send bumps up on your face: bacteria, oil and a clogged pore (the acne trifecta).
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA)   BHAs are used for people with acne-prone or oily skin types because it penetrates the pores and actually dissolves what’s actually in the pore, including oil. Also exfoliates.	An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA)   The primary benefit of an AHA is exfoliation. Great option for keeping skin looking fresh and keeping that dull, aged look at bay.
Exfoliation works by loosening the bonds in the skin so that dead skin can be more easily sloughed off.
Both products work on reduces the acne trifecta, but in somewhat different ways.
Generally more drying because it dissolves oil.	Can be drying; but may also be more irritating. The higher the strength, the more the penetration.
Both can make the skin dry and peel depending on strength and how frequently the product is used.
Helps with hyperpigmentation (dark marks).	Helps with hyperpigmentation (dark marks).
Both products help with hyperpigmentation. The product you use depends on your skin’s reaction and tolerance level. Further, you’ll generally need 4 – 8 treatments depending on the severity of your acne and/or hyperpigmentation.