You generally don't need to wash your face after using a glycolic acid toner. Glycolic acid toners are designed to be absorbed into the skin, and rinsing them off can actually reduce their effectiveness.
Here's why:
- Glycolic acid works best when it has time to penetrate the skin. Rinsing it off immediately after application prevents it from fully doing its job.
- Glycolic acid toners often contain humectants that attract moisture. Washing your face after applying a toner can remove these humectants, leaving your skin feeling dry.
- Some glycolic acid toners are formulated to be left on the skin. Check the instructions on your product to see if it recommends rinsing.
However, if you have sensitive skin or are new to using glycolic acid, you may want to wash your face after the first few uses. This will help you determine if your skin tolerates the toner well.
If you do decide to wash your face after using a glycolic acid toner, use a gentle cleanser that is pH-balanced. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubs, as these can irritate your skin.
Here are some additional tips for using glycolic acid toner:
- Start with a low concentration of glycolic acid. You can gradually increase the concentration as your skin becomes accustomed to it.
- Apply the toner to clean, dry skin.
- Avoid using glycolic acid toner on broken or irritated skin.
- Always wear sunscreen during the day when using glycolic acid toner. Glycolic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
