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The Difference Between Glycolic and Salicylic Acid [DermTV.com Epi #69]

When it comes to facial exfoliation, there are two acids which do a majority of the work: glycolic and salicylic. Dr. Schultz will explain the difference between the two and what they’re both used for. DermTV.com Connect with DermTV www.facebook.com www.twitter.com Everyonecan have beautiful, healthy, and younger looking skin, and DermTV, the Internet’s daily skincare video show, will demonstrate how by revealing expert tips and techniques and by providing real solutions for real skincare issues. Skincare (whether cosmetic or medical) previously required a trip to your dermatologist or a shopping spree at the pharmacy. And that’s if you have a trusted nearby dermatologist or a local informed pharmacy. But not anymore. We at DermTV are committed to making best-in-class dermatology and skincare guidance accessible to everyone, anytime, at your computer. Every weekday, our host, Dr. Neal Schultz, one of New York’s most trusted and respected dermatologists (see bio below), teaches skincare’s most timely and timeless issues. Topics include: the best at home techniques and new technology for facial rejuvenation, preventing and fixing sun damage from wrinkles to skin cancer, breaking news in dermatology, general skincare topics, and more.

  1. redleader55yt
    August 14th, 2010 at 23:21 | #1

    mt sinai som woohoo!!

  2. pinksaphire100
    September 6th, 2010 at 04:07 | #2

    does glycolic acid prevent acne? and get rid of hyperpigmentation

  3. hipretty
    September 28th, 2010 at 19:25 | #3

    does glycolic do any tightening, or removal of hyperpigmentation, soften some deeper wrinkles? Or is a deeper peel really needed for that?

  4. akdennisjr
    December 6th, 2010 at 11:27 | #4

    how often should I use Salicylic Acid? I recently purchased 20% Salicylic Acid.

  5. jeskajuice
    January 1st, 2011 at 03:48 | #5

    what about lactic acid?

  6. piggiesmalls4
    January 1st, 2011 at 21:42 | #6

    Should the percentage of glycolic acid be used gradually? After reading positive reviews I purchased MD Forte III cleanser (20% GA) but stopped using it after about 1.5 weeks because it was irritating the large pimples I already had and causing many new small ones. I dont consider myself as having sensitive skin because I’ve used high percentages of Benzoyl Peroxide for years np, although I do get postacne hyperpigmentation marks spots VERY easily. I have never used GA on my skin prior to this.

  7. feefeezbox
    January 11th, 2011 at 06:06 | #7

    what do u think about facial masks… like mud masks?

  8. snookas1
    January 22nd, 2011 at 11:31 | #8

    I had a 50 micron Micro Laser Peel done about 6 weeks ago. The peel left some hyperpigmation and one small spot of hypopigmentation. The nurse that performed the procedure instructed me to begin a salicylic acid peel treatment with them to correct the hyper/hypopigmentation and to clear up my skin further. I had one 30% salicylic acid peel done earlier today. My question is, should I continue or look for a new PS? I feel the need to get a second opinion, but for all I know this is normal.

  9. SabakuNoJennie
    March 11th, 2011 at 23:59 | #9

    Which one do you use for stretch marks?

  10. eluvcp
    March 12th, 2011 at 15:53 | #10

    are there any contraindications when it comes to using Glycolic and salicylic peels?

  11. hannamarieleffler13
    April 2nd, 2011 at 00:23 | #11

    Please help!! I think i am allergic to salicylic acid. I have recently tryed many products containing salicylic to clear up my acne. Every I used these products i broke out. I dont thinks its anything else in the product. Any suggestions of acne products i could use that might help? Also do you know y this is happening when i use salicylic acid products??

  12. kaylapaiam
    May 10th, 2011 at 16:09 | #12

    The American Institute Of Advanced Medicine can help! They have over 25 years experience and over 90% success rate for a varity for skin disorders including cystic acne check out theaiam.com their protocols really work!!

    Their medication is FDA approved with no side effects! ** Not a scam!

    theaiam.com

  13. snookas1
    June 4th, 2011 at 10:09 | #13

    @snookas1

    Replying to update:

    All cleared up and looking much better. The light peels made a big difference in correcting what the deep laser peel did, but all-in-all, I’m pleased with the results. I’m no longer going to the PS to have the peels done as I do them myself now. These are light peels, 20% SA (very light “peeling”, but fantastic results) and will be moving on to 35%/50% GA soon. The only thing left to do is buy a thank you card+gift for the nurse, and continue treating myself.

  14. candilover
    June 20th, 2011 at 20:33 | #14

    i love your videos, i’ve learn so much from it. Thank you!!!

  15. SmashBrosBrawl
    July 1st, 2011 at 03:49 | #15

    @SabakuNoJennie
    use this stuff called emu oil for stretch marks

  16. pennyandme
    July 11th, 2011 at 16:06 | #16

    Do all exfoliants need to be stored in a dark, cool space?

  17. pennyandme
    July 11th, 2011 at 16:07 | #17

    Do all exfoliants need to be stored in a dark, cool space? I haven’t stored mine this way, so should I throw them away?

  18. vanillastrawberry008
    July 13th, 2011 at 09:56 | #18

    thats a german name, schultz, are you german?

  19. audilovesmusic
    July 27th, 2011 at 12:16 | #19

    I am an african american girl . I have many blemishes , but mine are ”black” because my skin is brown . Do you think glycolic chemical peels will get rid of them , or could you tell me what will . Thanks .

  20. kimberlysue2287
    July 29th, 2011 at 17:52 | #20

    Hi Dr., Is it okay for me to use both glycolic and salicylic acid in conjunction? For example using a Salicylic Acid cleanser with a Glycolic Acid treatment? Thank you!

  21. jjjjjokerface
    August 22nd, 2011 at 19:21 | #21

    Is it ok to use Glycolic acid if I am using a topical prescription (Ziana)?

  22. SleeKi
    September 8th, 2011 at 23:55 | #22

    will salicylic acid get rid of my deeply blocked pores on my legs? please help out with an answer, thanks!

  23. impulse22000
    September 19th, 2011 at 17:40 | #23

    hi Dr is it true that if u keep exfoilating over time you would reach a hayflick limit where your cells stop dividing.

  24. Wivanunu
    December 5th, 2011 at 13:15 | #24

    @1969LAGIRL They said we can’t mention brands…but think about that infomercial with all the movie stars. It comes in 3 steps and the green toner is glycolic acid. I love my glycolic acid….it must be gentle enough to do the job and it smells like flowers. I just noticed you posted this a years ago….so you probably already know what I’m talking about. Some glycolic acids at Ulta and Sephora are super expensive. I think Jessica Simpson was used to be on the infomercial.

  25. bnbn55
    December 23rd, 2011 at 11:03 | #25

    I have a 9 months burn scars ( hyper-pigmination ) on legs due to laser hair removal, what do you think of doing a glycolic acid peel then after the healing putting a bleaching cream?

  1. December 31st, 2011 at 17:12 | #1
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