How to Layer Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide for Smoother, Brighter Skin

Quick Answer

Layer glycolic acid first on clean, dry skin, then follow with niacinamide to soothe and brighten. This order maximizes exfoliation while reducing irritation.

Step-by-Step Night Routine

1. Cleanse and dry completely: Start with a gentle cleanser and pat your face dry. Glycolic acid needs a clean, dry surface to penetrate evenly. Wait 5 minutes after cleansing if your skin feels damp; excess water can dilute the acid.
2. Apply glycolic acid treatment: Use a pea-sized amount of Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment and spread it evenly over your face, avoiding the eye area. Let it absorb fully for 1-2 minutes. Do not layer more than one exfoliating product in the same step to avoid over-exfoliation.
3. Follow with niacinamide serum: Apply 2-3 drops of Good Molecules 5% Niacinamide Serum with Ectoin over the glycolic acid. Gently press into skin rather than rubbing. If you feel any stinging, reduce frequency to every other night or buffer the niacinamide with a moisturizer first.
4. Seal with moisturizer: Finish with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to lock in hydration and support the skin barrier overnight. Skip occlusive balms on glycolic acid nights unless your skin is very dry; they can trap the acid and increase irritation.

Product Facts

• Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment 30ml: A blend of 9.2% alpha and beta hydroxy acids that resurfaces and renews, smoothing away dead skin cells and unclogging pores. This overnight treatment provides a strong but controlled exfoliation, making it a good candidate for the first step in your evening routine.

  

• Good Molecules 5% Niacinamide Serum with Ectoin 30ml: Combines 5% niacinamide, acetyl glucosamine, and ectoin to hydrate, refine texture, and brighten. The lightweight serum hydrates and calms skin after exfoliation, helping to offset potential irritation while targeting uneven tone and enlarged pores.