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Glycolic Acid in Your Evening Serum: Trust Me, It’s Worth It!

By Courtney Sykes, Founder of Courtney Sykes Molecular Anti-Aging

When it comes to skincare ingredients that truly deliver results, glycolic acid stands in a league of its own. As one of the most studied and time-tested alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), glycolic acid offers a unique blend of exfoliating power, skin-smoothing benefits, and long-term anti-aging support — especially when used in your evening skincare serum. If you’re serious about glowing, healthy, youthful skin, incorporating glycolic acid into your nighttime routine might be the missing link.

Let’s dive into why glycolic acid is so effective and how it can elevate your skincare regimen — particularly in the evening when your skin is most receptive to repair and renewal.

What is Glycolic Acid, and Why is it So Powerful?

Glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane and boasts the smallest molecular size of all the AHAs, which means it penetrates the skin more easily and effectively. Once absorbed, it works by breaking down the bonds that hold dead skin cells together on the surface, allowing them to gently slough away. This exfoliation reveals brighter, smoother skin underneath and helps clear the way for other ingredients to penetrate more deeply.

Unlike manual exfoliants that can scratch or irritate the skin, glycolic acid provides chemical exfoliation, which is more controlled, even, and suitable for long-term use when applied correctly.

Why Use Glycolic Acid at Night?

Your skin goes into repair mode overnight, making the evening hours the perfect time to apply actives like glycolic acid. When you’re sleeping, your body isn’t exposed to UV rays or environmental pollutants — two major factors that can increase sensitivity to exfoliating acids during the day.

By using a glycolic acid serum in the evening, you allow it to work uninterrupted, supporting:

•Cellular turnover

•Collagen stimulation

•Breakout prevention

•Diminished fine lines and wrinkles

•Faded dark spots and acne scars

•Smooth and refined texture

This powerful multitasker tackles several issues at once — and it does so while you sleep.

The Anti-Aging Secret Weapon

One of glycolic acid’s most impressive benefits is its ability to stimulate collagen production over time. As we age, collagen — the protein responsible for firm, youthful skin — naturally decreases. By encouraging fibroblast activity (the cells responsible for collagen synthesis), glycolic acid can help firm the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

You’ll begin to notice a smoother, more even texture, and over time, a visible reduction in signs of aging.

Fade Hyperpigmentation and Brighten Dull Skin

Whether you’re dealing with sunspots, melasma, or post-acne pigmentation, glycolic acid can be a game-changer. It exfoliates the outer layers of pigment buildup, helping to gradually lighten dark spots and create a more uniform complexion. It also boosts radiance by clearing away the dulling dead cells that accumulate from sun damage, stress, and environmental exposure.

Many of my clients at Southeastern Health and Wellness Institute are amazed at how much brighter their skin appears within just 2–4 weeks of using a glycolic serum at night.

Supports Acne-Prone and Congested Skin

If you experience frequent breakouts, congested pores, or blackheads, glycolic acid is one of your best allies. It helps to unclog pores, remove excess oil and debris, and prevent future breakouts by keeping your skin exfoliated and balanced. When pores are consistently cleared, skin looks smoother, and active breakouts are less likely to form.

For adult acne sufferers who also want to target fine lines and texture — glycolic acid delivers on both fronts.

How to Use Glycolic Acid Safely in Your Nightly Routine

Because glycolic acid is a strong active, it’s important to introduce it slowly and always follow with nourishment.

1.Start with 1–3 times per week, depending on your skin sensitivity.

2.Apply a thin layer of your glycolic acid serum after cleansing and toning.

3.Allow it to fully absorb (1–2 minutes).

4.Follow with a hydrating or peptide-based serum and a nourishing moisturizer to soothe and restore the barrier.

5.Always wear SPF during the day — glycolic acid increases sun sensitivity.

For more experienced users, nightly use may be tolerated and provide more visible, consistent results.

Trust Me, It’s Worth It

At Courtney Sykes Molecular Anti-Aging, I’ve formulated glycolic acid into the GLOW GEL because I’ve seen firsthand the transformation it brings to the skin. Whether you’re looking to smooth texture, fade pigmentation, reduce fine lines, or simply wake up glowing — this is one ingredient that delivers.

We don’t believe in trendy fluff — we believe in science-backed, results-driven skincare that meets you where you are and helps you glow to your full potential.

So yes — glycolic acid in your evening serum is absolutely worth it.

Use it consistently. Respect it. Pair it with barrier-loving ingredients.

And watch your skin thank you — every single morning.