13 Best Glycolic Acid Pads Of 2024 For Brighter Skin
Brighten your skin with natural ingredients with this skincare essential.
Terri Watts is a highly qualified skin care specialist with over 24 years of experience in the beauty industry. In 2005, driven by a commitment to empower others, Terri launched her own clean beauty skin care line. This line is more than just about achieving radiant skin; it's a testament to her deep passion for making a difference.
Read full bio of Terri L Watts
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
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All of us pray for perfect skin every day, and sometimes we are willing to go to any lengths to get it. Getting regular facials at a salon can have visible results but it can also be an expensive affair. That is why using the best glycolic acid pads is an affordable way to attain this goal. While glycolic acid is commonly packed into lotions, gels, and toners, glycolic acid pads are pre-soaked in a saturated solution of glycolic acid serum with other ingredients like witch hazel or aloe vera to boost and brighten your dull skin. These portable pads of goodness can be swiped all over your face and your body, giving you the same benefits as an old-school facial. They are basically cotton pads soaked with glycolic acid along with other skin-friendly ingredients. Skin care specialist, Terri L. Watts, says, “In my experience, Glycolic acid is essential and works optimally when combined with Salicylic acid and Hyaluronic acid. This blend allows much lower percentages to be used, thereby skipping the sometimes-harsh side effects for sensitive skin users. Stronger is not always a better solution.”
Glycolic acid, a very common Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), is a time-tested exfoliator that removes dead skin and unclogs your pores, giving you clear and smooth skin. Like any other exfoliant, using it a few times a week is perfect as using it regularly can lead to dry skin. To ensure that your skin does not dry out after using these pads, apply a moisturizer to keep it hydrated. Check out our list of the best glycolic acid pads given below. Scroll down!
In This Article
Top 13 Glycolic Acid Pads Of 2024 – Our Top Picks
1.Best Gentle Cleansing:QRx Labs Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads
Pining for younger, smoother, and hydrated radiant skin? This pack of 50 pads comes fully saturated with a solution of 20% pure glycolic acid so that they don’t dry out. Made of a soft non-woven material with a waffle shaped, textured surface, they gently cleanse and exfoliate the skin. Each pad has a convenient finger notch that makes it easier to pick it up from the jar. These pads exfoliate and reduce the appearance of scars, bumps, fine lines, and wrinkles, and boost collagen production that is responsible for skin cell turnover. Boosted with potent antioxidants vitamins B5, C, and E, they improve skin hydration, reduce photo-damage, and skin tone issues, leaving the skin looking younger and more radiant. They are also infused with allantoin that helps to soothe and protect the skin and green tea plus calendula extracts which act as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents. These professional-grade hydration-boosting pads are definitely worth a try! This also happens to be the top choice of Terri L. Watts, who says, “My top pick for a single acid glycolic pad. The added anti-inflammatory and super antioxidants are what helped clear the way in making this a top choice.”
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Silicon-free
- Eco-friendly packaging
Cons
- May not suit extremely sensitive skin
Did You Know?
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 15,541 great reviews on Amazon.
2.Best For Oil Control:Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Exfoliating Facial Pads
For smooth, glowing, and radiant skin, this skincare product comes in a pack of 60 pads of 55 mm diameter and targets excess oil and clogged pores. Fab glycolic acid pads are extreme night pads, are quite potent, and contain 5% glycolic acid, further enhanced by hyaluronic acid and salicylic acid. Glycolic acid is a gentle exfoliator and an effective treatment to fade discoloration, acne scarring, and pigmentation. Salicylic acid penetrates deep into the skin pores and unclogs them, thus helping to combat blackheads and blemishes. Hyaluronic acid, the ultimate hydrator, improves skin hydration and keeps skin feeling soft and plump. For visible results, use these oil-control facial exfoliating pads 2-3 times a week at night, but if you have an extremely sensitive skin type, use it just once a week.
Pros
- Contains natural ingredients
- No toxic chemicals
- Non-comedogenic
- Effective for acne-prone skin
Cons
- Contains artificial fragrance
- Contains EDTA
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 9,302 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
3.Best For Acne Scars: Lumiwill Cosmetic Glycolic Acid Pads 35% Facial Peel
The innovative Glycolic Acid Pads from Lumiwill Cosmetic exfoliate dead skin cells, excessive sebum, and other impurities to make your skin look nourished and glowing. The alpha-hydroxy acid peel pads reduce blackheads, clogged pores, and acne breakouts, leading to soft, smooth skin. The glycolic acid serum is one of the safest and most effective exfoliators that can slow down the appearance of aging signs. Apply a pad once daily to get a bright and even skin tone. The container has 50 pads that are infused with natural ingredients like Vitamin B5, C, and E, menthol, calendula, and witch hazel that soften, soothe, refresh, and plump the skin and help fade acne scars.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Phthalate-free
- GMO-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- Dermatologically tested
Cons
- None
Quick Tip| QRx Labs Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads Best Gentle Cleansing | Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Exfoliating Facial Pads Best For Oil Control | Lumiwill Cosmetic Glycolic Acid Pads 35% Facial Peel Best For Acne Scars | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | Normal | All Skin,Dry |
| Package Dimensions | 2.68 x 2.6 x 2.32 inches | - | - |
| Weight | 4 Ounces | - | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 15,541 | 9,302 | - |
| Price | $19.95 | $13.14 | $19.9 |
4.Best For Wrinkles:L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Brightening Peel Pads
These facial peel pads help in resurfacing dry and dull skin, smoothen uneven skin tone, and rough texture of your skin to reveal youthful looking skin and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Formulated with glycolic acid, which is a gold standard in skin brightening, these glycolic acid peel pads aid in skin renewal and hydrate your skin. For daytime use, always follow up with a moisturizer with SPF. Available in a pack of 30 multi-ply textured pads, this 10% glycolic complex is infused with vitamin C, citric acid, and HEPES that minimizes skin congestion, visibly improves skin clarity and refines skin tone. If you’re giving glycolic acid a first try, this product is worth investing in.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- 10% glycolic complex
- Good for acne
- Suitable for all skin tones and types
Cons
- Some may find these pads a bit sticky.
5.Best For Dead Skin Cells:MAJESTIC PURE Glycolic Acid Pads
If you are seeking a gentle yet effective exfoliator to achieve supple, youthful skin, look no further than Majestic Pure Glycolic Acid Pads. This skincare product offers the perfect combination of toning, hydration, and exfoliation. They contain clinically-verified 20% glycolic acid that exfoliates the skin effectively without causing dryness. This helps in wrinkle and fine-line reduction, providing a refreshed appearance. These rejuvenating pads remove dead cells, toxins, dirt, and pollution from your pores, detoxifying and hydrating your skin. The product offers visible results and has not undergone any testing on animals.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Easy to use
- Gentle formula
- Suitable for all skin types
- Long-lasting
Cons
- None
Quick Tip6.Best For Fine Lines:Windsor Botanicals Glycolic Acid Pads
The WINDSOR BOTANICALS Glycolic Acid Peel Pads are all-natural exfoliating products that gently remove dead skin cells and clear makeup while unblocking pores to give a youthful glow to the skin. These glycolic acid toner pads contain a powerful chemical exfoliant that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in just a few swipes. These pads are pre-soaked with calming herbs so you can enjoy an at-home chemical peel without harsh irritants or allergens. The product has not been tested on animals.
Pros
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Cruelty-free
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Not suitable for hypersensitive skin
7.Best Antioxidant:Touch 20% Glycolic Acid Pads
These effective glycolic acid pads contain 20% glycolic acid with a pH of 3.5, and require no neutralizer or rinsing after use. These pads are perfect for removing dullness, hyperpigmentation, melasma, unclogging pores, removing acne, scars, fine lines, and wrinkles, and ensure that you have even skin tone and texture. These pads exfoliate dead skin layers to reveal smooth, radiant, and even-toned healthy skin. They restore healthy, glowing skin by preventing moisture loss and dryness, and significantly boost collagen production. This radiance-enhancing product understands that people with sensitive reactive skin may suffer skin may suffer skin irritation with glycolic acid and so it has cucumber, chamomile, comfrey, and green tea extracts to provide your skin with moisture protection with their anti-irritant, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
- Alcohol-free
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- No dyes
- Non-comedogenic
- cGMP-compliant
Cons
- May not be suitable for extremely sensitive skin
8.Best Brightens The Skin:NASSIFMD Detox Pads
These ultimate complexion perfecting detox pads contain alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids that help even skin tone, diminish large pores, and keep the skin smooth. A blend of glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid gently exfoliate the skin and unclog pores, prevent breakouts, and firm the skin while reducing fine lines and wrinkles. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties of these glycolic acid exfoliating pads help keep your skin protected. A proprietary retinol-like product without the drawbacks of retinol, it brightens the skin, giving it a fresh glow. This just might be the answer to your skin woes.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Mineral oil-free
Cons
- Some may find it harsh on sensitive skin
9.Best For Damaged Skin:Remedial Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Pads
The Remedial Glycolic Acid Pads offer a unique blend of skin care benefits that make them stand out from other exfoliants and dark spot correctors. These facial care pads are gentle on the skin yet effectively eliminate dead skin cells and unclog pores without harsh scrubbing to give a smooth surface. They are also suitable for use on mature skin. The moisturizing effects of this product promote the emergence of new cells, offering you a flawless skin tone. These skin softening pads nourish the skin, clear pores, and soothe damaged skin. They contain essential vitamins and minerals that soften fine lines and wrinkles and treat discoloration.
Pros
- Reduces enlarged pores
- Non-comedogenic
- Gentle formula
- Suitable for all skin types
- Value for money
Cons
- None
10.Best Ph Balance:Replenix Gly/Sal 10-2 Pads
These unique glycolic acid pads contain 10% of glycolic acid and 2% of salicylic acid to treat breakouts, remove bacteria and excess oil, unclog pores, and improve skin texture. Suitable for acne-prone skin, these convenient glycolic acid pads help remove dirt, oil and other impurities without drying out and keeping your skin smooth. These pre-moistened medicated pads are gentle on the skin, pH balanced, and have a soap-free formula. They contain witch hazel extracts to smooth and tone the skin and skin conditioners and natural plant extracts to hydrate irritated skin. Green tea polyphenols effectively soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. This product is also available in 2% and 5% concentration of glycolic acid, so pick whatever suits your skin and skin condition the best. Terri L Watts adds, “My top pick for multi-acid pads. Combining glycolic and salicylic acids amp up the exfoliating power without drying out the skin. Lower percentages in combined acids work magically for all skin types.”
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Natural ingredients
- Helps in pH balance restoration
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
- Trusted by dermatologists
Cons
- Has artificial fragrance
11.Best For Radiant Skin:Organys Glycolic & Salicylic Exfoliating Pads
These effective glycolic acid pads are highly recommended for mature skin to deliver visible anti-aging results. They come in a pack of 50 waffle-shaped, textured pads steeped in 20% glycolic acid and 0.5% salicylic acid. These therapeutic acids in these exfoliating pads penetrate through the layers of skin, removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores. They reduce skin bumps, lines, and wrinkles and aid in texture improvement, giving you smooth and even skin. These acne-fighting pads are also great for removing that excess dirt and oil that we seem to collect on our skin through the course of the day, reducing dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and melasma. These pads have a pH of 3.25 which enhances penetration and absorption, giving you that brighter and more radiant complexion you have been craving for.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- No dyes
- No fragrance
- No fillers or preservatives
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
Cons
- It may leave behind a sticky residue
12.Best For Hyperpigmentation:Newport Glycolic Pads
If you’re experiencing hyperpigmentation, irritating red bumps, large pores, or excessively oily skin, you’re not the only one! These medical grade glycolic acid pads come in a pack of 50 pads and contain 20% glycolic acid, making it an ideal exfoliating pore minimizer. These glycolic acid exfoliating pads slough off dead skin that dulls your complexion, and you will notice the difference after just one use as it makes the skin smooth. This pore-minimizing product is rich in natural, unaltered ingredients that are scientifically proven to improve skin tone, shrink pores, and treat acne and scarring. It is a blend of glycolic acid with clinically proven ingredients like lactic acid, along with chamomile, witch hazel extract, and vitamin C, penetrate deep into your skin and rejuvenate it. Get ready to welcome a new you!
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Cruelty-free
- Medical grade glycolic acid
- Good for acne-prone skin
Cons
- May not be suitable for extremely dry skin
13.Best For Premature Aging:Bliss That’s Incredi-Peel Spa-Strength Glycolic Resurfacing Pads
Inspired by effective spa-grade treatments, these gentle glycolic acid serum-infused pads are packed with antioxidants, calendula flower extract, witch hazel, glycerin, vitamin E, and licorice. These pads are especially fitting for mature skin as they help to reduce visible signs of premature aging. These advanced formula pads gradually release 10% glycolic acid and vitamin E into your skin while you sleep, targeting fine lines, scars, discoloration and blemishes. Each pad is wrapped individually in its own package and there’s no need to rinse your face after using it. These blemish control pads are infused with soothing botanicals to help reduce any inflammation and enhance moisture retention so that you wake up with more radiant-looking skin. These convenient, no-rinse pads are easy to use at home and are suitable for all skin types. The product has not been tested on animals.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Silicon-free
- Phthalate-free
Cons
- It may take some time to witness visible results.
Now that you have been through our review of the 13 best glycolic acid pads of 2024, we will give you a few tips on what to look for while choosing a product for yourself so that you can make a well-informed decision.
How To Choose Glycolic Acid Pads
- Condition of the area to be treated
While choosing glycolic acid pads, you need to consider the use for which they are intended and your expectations from them. Makeup, daily cleansing, environmental pollutants, and blemishes can all contribute to your skin looking dull and lifeless. The best glycolic acid pads remove build-up and residue and leave your skin bright, clear, and smooth.
- Glycolic acid concentration
Glycolic acid pads are available in concentrations ranging between 20% to 55%. If you are using them daily, it’s best to use lower concentrations. For deep exfoliation or severe acne, concentrations of 10% to 15% work best. Chemical peel pads for deeper exfoliation have a concentration of 20% and may also be used by people who haven’t had success with lower concentrations. Chemical exfoliation shouldn’t be done too frequently.
- Skin type
People with sensitive skin types, light wrinkles, and mild or no acne should use glycolic pads with a lower concentration, while those with normal skin, sun damage, or excessive build-up due to product use should try moderate concentrations. Always start with glycolic acid pads of a lower concentration for a few weeks and gradually increase the concentration and frequency till you get the desired visible results. Those with mature skin should always follow up with a moisturizer.
- Reaction of the skin
Always test the glycolic acid pads on the inner arms before using them on the face. If you experience irritation, go for a lower-concentration formula for sensitive skin and always conduct a small patch test to avoid any reactions.
After you have picked the right product for yourself, it’s important to know how to use it correctly so that you are able to draw the maximum benefits for your skin. So, here’s a little guide on how to use glycolic acid pads the right way.
How To Use Glycolic Acid Pads
- Most glycolic acid pads are dual textured, so you should use the softer side on the face and the side with added texture on the neck, shoulders, and chest. It usually tingles when you first swipe it on, but the sensation soon fades. If it’s a leave-on, you can just sleep off and let it do its magic. Otherwise, rinse it off your face with water and pat your face dry with a towel.
- Apply a moisturizer after a few minutes if you’ve got dry skin, as glycolic acid can dry it out even more.
- After using a glycolic acid pad it’s good to follow up with an antioxidant like vitamin C and a sunscreen moisturizer. A word of caution— Don’t use glycolic acid peel pads just before applying retinol or retin-A, as this can lead to significant irritation and sometimes even inflammation.
- Always read the directions before using glycolic acid pads and start with a low concentration and the fewest number of applications. Using too much may cause excessive peeling. If you are not sure about which concentration to use, consult your dermatologist.
Infographic: Things To Consider While Buying The Best Glycolic Acid Pads
If you want clear and glowing skin, it is time to take some action and make it happen. Glycolic acid pads can help transform your skin from dull and dry to soft and bright. If you are wondering how to pick one, check out the infographic below. Bookmark these easy tips to select the best product for yourself.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Facial techniques or skin-brightening creams are commonly used to brighten up your skin. But it takes so much effort to follow the facial technique, and when you are in a hurry, facials seem impossible. Similarly, the brightening creams too, may take time to show visible results. So, instead, what you need is the best glycolic acid pads that exfoliate your skin, remove impurities, unclog pores, and brighten up the skin instantly. You can use these pads instead of buying the glycolic acid serum or toner separately. The Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Exfoliating Facial Pads contain 5% glycolic acid and are ideal for those who are new to using this active skincare ingredient. The QRx Labs Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads and Lumiwill Cosmetic Glycolic Acid Pads 35% Facial Peel contain, 20% and 35% glycolic acid strength, respectively, and are perfect for those looking for a more potent glycolic acid treatment. Besides gentle exfoliation, these pads also remove fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. In addition, they help to improve skin hydration, combat blackheads, and blemishes, and tighten the skin. Even though the ingredient is a chemical, it is safe and beneficial for your skin. Invest in the glycolic pads to look vibrant and radiant.
Why Trust Stylecraze
Krati Darak, the author of this article, is a skin care enthusiast who loves reviewing new products that can help her readers look and feel their best. After carefully researching multiple products and sifting hundreds of user reviews on trusted online forums, she compiled this list of the best glycolic acid pads. The glycolic acid present in the shortlisted products helps even the skin tone and removes dead skin cells.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are glycolic acid pads effective?
Glycolic acid pads are very effective and are the most popular ingredient in peel pads since they unclog pores, hydrate, brighten, and smooth the tone and texture of your skin.
Can you use glycolic acid pads every day?
It’s not recommended to use glycolic acid products every day, but it depends on the product you’re using. If it’s a rinse-off product, then using it everyday is fine.
Should you moisturize after using glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid, like any other exfoliator, can dry out the skin. To counter that, you should use products that contain moisturizing ingredients. You can also apply your regular moisturizer after using a product with glycolic acid in it. It’s important to moisturise your skin after applying glycolic acid as you are removing the top layer of dead skin cells, and may have some peeling or flaking.
Can I leave glycolic acid on overnight?
Glycolic acid products are best used at night as they make your skin more sensitive to the sun’s UV rays. It can be left overnight if it’s a leave-in product, otherwise usually 10 minutes are enough.
How long does it take glycolic acid pads to work?
Glycolic acid pads take a few weeks to show positive results like an even skin tone and fewer blemishes.
What do you put on your face after a glycolic acid peel?
Apply a lightweight moisturizer after using a glycolic acid peel. Do not over moisturize, or the damaged skin will stop flaking. In addition, use a cool compress to soothe and calm your skin after peeling.
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