Glycolic Acid + SPF / Sunscreen
Safe to Combine
These ingredients are generally well-tolerated together with no special precautions needed.
Sunscreen is not just safe but essential when using glycolic acid - it protects against increased photosensitivity.
What the Research Says
Glycolic acid increases photosensitivity by thinning the outermost layer of dead skin cells that provides some natural UV protection. Without sunscreen, using glycolic acid can actually worsen hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and increase the risk of sunburn - the opposite of what most users are trying to achieve. This photosensitivity effect persists for about a week after the last application of glycolic acid.
Sunscreen is the single most important product to pair with glycolic acid. Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher should be applied every morning when using glycolic acid, regardless of whether the acid is applied in the morning or evening. This is not optional - it is a fundamental requirement for safe and effective glycolic acid use.
Both chemical (organic) and mineral (inorganic) sunscreens are compatible with glycolic acid. There is no interaction between the active UV filters and glycolic acid. However, some users find that mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) are less likely to sting on freshly exfoliated skin compared to certain chemical filters.
Timing & How to Use
Apply sunscreen as the last step in your morning skincare routine, after moisturizer. Reapply every 2 hours during direct sun exposure. If using glycolic acid in the morning, apply it first, let it absorb, then follow with moisturizer and sunscreen.
Practical Tips
- 1SPF 30+ broad-spectrum is the minimum - SPF 50 is even better for glycolic acid users
- 2Do not skip sunscreen on cloudy days - up to 80% of UV rays penetrate clouds
- 3If glycolic acid stings under sunscreen, switch to a mineral (zinc oxide) formula
- 4Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours during prolonged outdoor exposure, even with glycolic acid applied only at night
References
- Kornhauser A, et al. The effects of topically applied glycolic acid and salicylic acid on ultraviolet radiation-induced erythema, DNA damage and sunburn cell formation in human skin. J Dermatol Sci. 2009;55(1):10-5.
- FDA. Alpha hydroxy acids in cosmetics. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 2020.
- Lim HW, et al. Current challenges in photoprotection. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2017;76(3S1):S91-S99.
