What Dermatologists Really Say About Glycolic Acid for Body Skin
Short version: Glycolic acid helps dissolve the dead skin build-up that causes rough, bumpy texture and keratosis pilaris. Pair it with urea and niacinamide for smooth, comfortable skin and long-lasting hydration.
Shop The Lotion now →Educational content only. Not medical advice. If you have a medical concern, seek personalised guidance.
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Educational content only. Not medical advice. If you have a medical concern, seek personalised guidance.
By The Lotion
What is Glycolic Acid and How It Works
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that breaks down the “glue” between dead surface cells. On body skin this helps reduce roughness, flaking, and the look of clogged keratin plugs. The result is a smoother feel and better light reflection.
Why Dermatologists Use Glycolic Acid on Body Skin
- Texture smoothing: Visibly reduces rough, bumpy patches on arms, legs, and back.
- Even skin feel: Refines the surface so moisturisers apply and absorb more evenly.
- Supports cell turnover: Encourages regular shedding that body skin often lacks.
- Pairs well with hydrators: Works best with urea, glycerin, and niacinamide for comfort.
Educational content only. Not medical advice. If you have a medical concern, seek personalised guidance.
By The LotionGlycolic Acid for Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis pilaris is driven by excess keratin that plugs hair follicles. Glycolic acid helps loosen this build-up on the surface so bumps look flatter and skin feels smoother. Consistency is key. You usually see a difference within 48 hours, and improvements continue with ongoing use.
Hydration and Barrier Support
Exfoliation without hydration can leave the skin feeling tight. Dermatology routines often combine glycolic acid with:
- Urea: Draws water in and softens rough areas, which helps flexibility.
- Niacinamide: Supports the barrier and helps keep redness calm.
- Glycerin: Boosts water content for a comfortable finish.
This is why The Lotion brings these together. One step. Smooth feel. Comfortable wear.
How to Use Glycolic Acid Safely on the Body
- Patch test: Test a small area for 24 hours.
- Start slow: Apply once per day at night for the first week.
- Hydrate: If you feel dry, follow with a bland moisturiser on non-treated nights.
- Sun sense: Use daily sunscreen on exposed areas. Exfoliation can increase sensitivity.
- Stay consistent: Visible smoothing often starts within 48 hours and builds with routine use.
Medical note: If you have active eczema, open cuts, or severe irritation, check with a health professional before using exfoliating acids.
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How to Choose the Right Glycolic Acid Body Lotion
- Percentage: 8 to 15 percent is common for body smoothing.
- pH: Balanced pH helps performance with comfort. The Lotion sits around pH 3.5 to 4.0.
- Fragrance-free: Better for sensitive or KP-prone skin.
- Support actives: Urea, niacinamide, and glycerin improve feel and results.
- Non-comedogenic base: Useful for upper arms, chest, and back.
Final Take
Dermatology routines use glycolic acid on body skin to smooth texture, reduce bumps, and improve the way moisturisers work. You get the best results when exfoliation and hydration work together. That is the formula behind The Lotion.
Shop The Lotion now →Educational content only. Not medical advice. If you have a medical concern, seek personalised guidance.
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Want the deep dive on our ingredients? Read Meet the Ingredients — The Science Behind Your Glow.
FAQs
Is glycolic acid safe for body skin?
Yes when used as directed. Start slowly, avoid broken or freshly shaved skin, and use sunscreen on exposed areas.
What percentage works best for KP?
Many people see results between 8 and 15 percent. The Lotion uses 12 percent for effective smoothing with comfort support from urea and niacinamide.
Can I use it every day?
Build up to daily use based on comfort. If you feel dry, reduce frequency. Consistency over time matters more than speed.
Should I choose glycolic acid or salicylic acid?
Both can help. Glycolic targets surface roughness, while salicylic is oil-soluble and suits congested areas. Many routines use glycolic on body skin for texture plus hydrators for comfort.
References
- American Academy of Dermatology — Patient Education
- Royal Australian College of General Practitioners — Skin resources
- PubMed — peer-reviewed dermatology literature
Information provided for educational purposes. Not a substitute for personalised medical advice.
