How do I apply glycolic acid (GA) 5% cream safely and effectively?

How to Apply Glycolic Acid 5% Cream

Start with once-daily application to clean, dry skin, then gradually increase to 2-3 times daily as tolerated, reducing frequency if excessive dryness or peeling occurs. 1

Application Protocol

Initial Application Steps

• Cleanse the skin thoroughly before applying the product 1
• Apply to the entire affected area, not just individual lesions 1
• Begin with once-daily application, then gradually increase frequency if needed or as directed by your physician 1
• Do not rinse the product off after application 1

Frequency Titration

• If tolerated well after the first week, increase to twice daily application 1
• Can advance to three times daily if no irritation develops 1
• If bothersome dryness or peeling occurs, reduce application to once daily or every other day 1

Critical Safety Considerations

Contraindications and Warnings

• Do not use if the patient has very sensitive skin or known allergy to aspirin 1
• For external use only 1
• Keep away from eyes, lips, and other mucous membranes—if contact occurs, flush thoroughly with water 1

Sun Protection Requirements

• Glycolic acid increases photosensitivity and UV-induced DNA damage 2
• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen during daytime use 3
• Counsel patients on strict sun avoidance, as glycolic acid significantly increases erythema and sunburn cell formation with UV exposure 2

Managing Concurrent Topical Medications

Avoiding Cumulative Irritation

• Using other topical acne medications simultaneously may increase dryness or irritation 1
• If excessive irritation occurs, use only one medication unless directed by a physician 1
• When combining with tretinoin (at higher concentrations like 7%), apply glycolic acid in the morning and tretinoin in the evening to optimize tolerance 3

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Application Errors

• Do not leave the product on the skin for an extended period without proper introduction—start conservatively 1
• Avoid applying to broken, inflamed, or infected skin 1
• Do not use keratolytic agents or other photosensitizing agents during the initial adjustment period 3

Monitoring for Adverse Effects

• Stop use and consult a physician if excessive itching, dryness, redness, burning, or swelling occurs 1
• Watch for persistent symptoms that don't resolve with frequency reduction 1

Storage and Handling

• Keep container tightly closed 1
• Store at room temperature 1

Context: Home-Use vs. Clinical Concentrations

The 5% concentration is designed for daily home maintenance and gentle exfoliation, distinct from clinical peels (20-70%) that require professional application and neutralization protocols 4. This lower concentration provides consistent, gradual improvement with minimal risk when used as directed 1.