5% Glycolic Serum

$35.00

A 5% glycolic acid serum that exfoliates clogged pores, clears blackheads, and smooths maturation arrest acne bumps.

1 oz

A 5% glycolic acid serum that exfoliates clogged pores, clears blackheads, and smooths maturation arrest acne bumps.

1 oz

  • Face Reality Glycolic Acid Serum 5% is a targeted exfoliating treatment built around glycolic acid, the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid molecule available in skincare. That smaller size matters because it allows the acid to penetrate pores more efficiently than other AHAs, making it especially effective at dissolving the compacted debris that forms blackheads and those stubborn, skin-colored bumps known as maturation arrest acne.

    Key Benefits

    Clears Blackheads and Under-the-Surface Bumps Glycolic acid at 5% dissolves the compacted oil and dead cells trapped inside pores, helping to clear both visible blackheads and the firm, pebble-like bumps of maturation arrest acne.

    Exfoliates Without Scrubbing As a chemical exfoliant, glycolic acid loosens the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface so they shed naturally, smoothing rough texture and preventing pore congestion from rebuilding.

    Helps Prevent Future Breakouts By keeping pore linings clear of buildup, consistent use reduces the conditions that lead to new comedones and breakouts over time.

    Supports a More Even Skin Tone Regular exfoliation with glycolic acid helps fade post-acne marks and uneven pigmentation, leaving skin visibly smoother and more uniform in tone.

    Calms and Conditions the Skin Witch hazel water and plantago lanceolata (ribwort plantain) leaf extract provide light astringent and soothing properties, helping to balance the skin while the acid works

  • If your skin is prone to blackheads, clogged pores, or those small, firm bumps under the surface that never seem to come to a head, this serum was formulated with your concerns in mind. It is well suited for normal, combination, and oily skin types looking for a direct approach to comedonal and maturation arrest acne.

    This 5% concentration is also a smart starting point if you are new to glycolic acid or want a lower-strength exfoliating serum you can build on over time. If your primary concerns are deep cystic breakouts rather than surface congestion, a different active may serve you better

  • Apply: After cleansing and toning, dispense 1 pump and smooth evenly over the face or directly onto congested areas in the evening.

    Layer: Follow with your prescribed moisturizer to lock in hydration.

    Protect: Always apply a broad-spectrum SPF in the morning when using this serum, as glycolic acid increases sun sensitivity

  • Key ingredients:

    • Glycolic Acid (5%): An alpha-hydroxy acid that exfoliates, smooths wrinkles, and reduces the appearance of dark spots.

    • 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 5% make my skin more sensitive to the sun? Glycolic acid is an exfoliating acid that increases photosensitivity, so daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential while using this serum. Even if you apply it only at night, freshly exfoliated skin remains more vulnerable to UV damage the following day.

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