10% Glycolic Serum

$37.00

A 10% glycolic acid serum that penetrates pores to clear blackheads, smooth under-the-skin bumps, and prevent new congestion.

1 oz

A 10% glycolic acid serum that penetrates pores to clear blackheads, smooth under-the-skin bumps, and prevent new congestion.

1 oz

  • Face Reality Glycolic Acid Serum 10% is a targeted corrective serum built around 10% glycolic acid to dissolve stubborn blackheads, smooth out bumps trapped under the skin (maturation arrest acne), and refine overall skin texture. Glycolic acid has the smallest molecular weight of all alpha-hydroxy acids, which means it penetrates the pore lining faster and deeper than other AHAs to break apart the compacted debris that keeps these lesions stuck in place. This is the kind of serum you reach for when surface exfoliation alone isn't cutting it and you need a direct route into congested pores.

    Key Benefits

    Clears Blackheads and Under-the-Skin Bumps Glycolic acid at 10% concentration dissolves the oxidized sebum plugs that form blackheads and loosens the compacted cells responsible for maturation arrest acne, those firm "pebbles" you can feel but not always see.

    Faster Pore Penetration Than Other AHAs Because glycolic acid is the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid molecule, it reaches deeper into the pore lining more quickly, making it especially effective for congestion that sits below the surface.

    Helps Prevent Future Breakouts Consistent exfoliation of the follicle wall keeps dead cells from re-accumulating, reducing the cycle of new blackheads and closed comedones forming in the same areas.

    Smooths and Evens Skin Tone Witch hazel water and glycerin work alongside glycolic acid to help calm the skin and maintain hydration while the acid resurfaces, leaving texture more even and tone more uniform.

    Versatile Spot Treatment Option Can be applied all over or used as a targeted spot treatment on individual areas of congestion, giving you flexibility depending on how much of your skin needs attention

  • This serum is designed for oily and combination skin types dealing with persistent blackheads, closed comedones, or maturation arrest acne, those stubborn bumps under the skin that don't come to a head. It is particularly well suited if you have already used a lower-strength glycolic serum and still have congestion that hasn't fully resolved.

    If your skin leans dry or sensitive, or if you experience redness and irritation with exfoliating acids, this concentration may be too active for everyday use. Starting with a 5% glycolic formula first is a safer way to gauge your skin's tolerance before stepping up to 10%

  • Apply: After cleansing and toning, dispense 1 pump and smooth over the entire face or just the areas of congestion.

    Technique: Layer under your moisturizer and allow a moment for the serum to absorb before applying the next step in your routine.

    Frequency: Use in the evening. Always apply SPF in the morning when incorporating this serum into your routine, as glycolic acid increases sun sensitivity

  • Key ingredients:

    • Glycolic Acid (10%): An alpha-hydroxy acid that exfoliates, smooths wrinkles, and reduces the appearance of dark spots.

    • Glycerin: Provides long-lasting, intense moisture retention.

    • Plantago Lanceolata Leaf Extract: A soothing botanical that calms visible redness and irritation while supporting the skin's natural healing process.

    Full ingredients:

    Aqua (Water), Glycolic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Alcohol Denat., Glycerin, Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Benzyl Alcohol, Plantago Lanceolata Leaf Extract, Sodium Gluconate, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum

  • Available for in-studio pickup only. No shipping.

  • Will Face Reality Glycolic Acid Serum 10% make my skin more sensitive to the sun? Glycolic acid does increase photosensitivity, so daily SPF is essential when using this serum. Even if you apply the serum only at night, the exfoliating effect on your skin's surface means you need sun protection the following morning and throughout the day.

    Is Face Reality Glycolic Acid Serum 10% suitable for dry or sensitive skin? This concentration is generally too active for dry or sensitive skin types. Glycolic acid at 10% can trigger redness, peeling, or irritation in skin that lacks sufficient oil production or has a compromised barrier. A lower-strength glycolic formula or a gentler exfoliant like mandelic acid is typically a better fit.

  • Book a consult and I'll build your routine around it.