Is It Safe To Use Glycolic Acid On Hair: 4 Benefits And Cons Explained

Leah LOVES hair. So much so, she dedicated an entire website to it! One of the founders of Hair Everyday and Chief Editor, Leah enjoys reviewing all the hair products and showcasing the best. She believes her most underrated articles are her hair care tips!

Want to know is it safe to use glycolic acid on hair then read my article to learn how to use this ingredient to exfoliate your scalp and keep it clean.

As a cosmetologist, I’m look for new products and ingredients to incorporate into my routine. Recently, I’ve heard a lot of buzz about using glycolic acid on hair, a popular ingredient in skincare products being used on hair.

In this article, I’ll explore the topic of using glycolic acid on hair in more detail. I’ll examine the potential benefits and risks of this ingredient, as well as provide tips for using glycolic acid safely and effectively on your hair.

Is It Safe To Use Glycolic Acid On Hair?

Using glycolic acid on hair can be safe and beneficial, as it gently exfoliates the scalp, removing dead skin cells and product buildup, which can promote healthier hair growth. When formulated specifically for hair care, glycolic acid can also help to smooth the hair cuticle, enhancing shine and manageability. However, it’s important to use products with appropriate concentrations and to follow the instructions carefully to avoid irritation. Always conduct a patch test first and consider consulting with a hair care professional to ensure it’s suitable for your hair type.

What Is Glycolic Acid?

As a hair care ingredient, glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). (Grover, C, and B S Reddu. “The therapeutic value of glycolic acid peels in dermatology.” Indian journal of dermatology, venereology and leprology vol. 69,2 (2003): 148-50.)

It is derived from sugar cane and is known for its exfoliating properties. Glycolic acid is commonly used in skin care products, but it has recently gained popularity as a hair care ingredient.

Glycolic acid works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed. When used on hair, it helps to remove build-up from styling products, dirt, and oil. This can help to improve the overall health and appearance of the hair.

Glycolic acid is a water-soluble ingredient, which means it is easily rinsed out of the hair. It is also safe to use on all hair types, including color-treated hair. However, it is important to use glycolic acid products as directed to avoid any potential irritation or damage to the hair and scalp.

Overall, glycolic acid can be a beneficial ingredient in hair care products for those looking to remove build-up and improve the health of their hair.

Benefits of Glycolic Acid for Hair

As a hair care ingredient, glycolic acid has several benefits that can help keep your hair healthy and strong. Here are some of the key benefits of using glycolic acid on your hair:

Exfoliation: Glycolic acid helps to exfoliate the scalp, removing dead skin cells and buildup that can clog pores and lead to hair loss. This can help promote healthy hair growth and prevent scalp issues like dandruff and flakiness.
Moisturization: Glycolic acid is a humectant, which means it helps to attract and retain moisture in the hair. This can help to keep your hair hydrated and prevent dryness and breakage.
Strengthening: Glycolic acid can help to strengthen the hair shaft, making it less prone to breakage and damage. This can help to improve the overall health and appearance of your hair.
Color retention: Glycolic acid can help to preserve hair color by preventing fading and oxidation. This can help to keep your hair looking vibrant and healthy for longer.

Can I Use Glycolic Acid Directly on Scalp

The answer is yes, technically. But you need to be very careful about using glycolic acid on scalp. You either need to dilute it by adding it to a oil or something or using very little and only once every week or two weeks.

While glycolic acid can be beneficial for the scalp, it is important to use it in the right concentration and with caution. Using glycolic acid in high concentrations can damage the scalp and hair follicles, leading to hair loss.

It is recommended to use glycolic acid in hair care products that have been specifically formulated for the scalp. These products contain a lower concentration of glycolic acid and other ingredients that work together to exfoliate the scalp gently.

It is also important to follow the instructions on the product carefully. Overuse of glycolic acid can cause irritation and dryness, which can lead to further problems. It is best to start with a small amount of product and gradually increase the frequency of use as your scalp adjusts.

In summary, while glycolic acid can be beneficial for the scalp, it is important to use it in the right concentration and with caution. Using products specifically formulated for the scalp and following the instructions carefully can help you achieve the desired results without causing any harm.

Potential Risks of Glycolic Acid on Scalp

As with any chemical treatment, there are potential risks involved with using glycolic acid on the scalp. While it can be an effective way to exfoliate and improve the overall health of the hair, it is important to be aware of the risks before using it.

Irritation and Sensitivity

Glycolic acid is a powerful exfoliant that can cause irritation and sensitivity on the scalp. This is especially true if you have sensitive skin or if you use a high concentration of glycolic acid. Symptoms of irritation and sensitivity can include redness, itching, and burning.

To minimize the risk of irritation and sensitivity, it is important to start with a low concentration of glycolic acid and gradually increase it over time. You should also patch test the product on a small area of your scalp before using it all over.

Chemical Burns

In some cases, glycolic acid can cause chemical burns on the scalp. This can happen if the product is left on for too long or if it is used in too high of a concentration. Symptoms of a chemical burn can include redness, blistering, and pain.

To avoid chemical burns, it is important to follow the instructions on the product carefully. You should also avoid using glycolic acid on broken or irritated skin.

Over-Processing

Using glycolic acid too frequently or in too high of a concentration can lead to over-processing. Over-processing can cause the hair to become dry, brittle, and damaged. It can also lead to hair loss.

To avoid over-processing, it is important to use glycolic acid in moderation. You should also make sure to condition your hair regularly to keep it healthy and hydrated.

So how do you apply glycolic acid without facing these issues? Well for one thing you can start off with a low concentration of the product and ALWAYS do a patch test to check for sensitivities. This way you can minimize your risk of irritation and sensitivity. I also suggest following the instructions carefully and using the glycolic acid in moderation like to 1-2 times a week.

How to Safely Use Glycolic Acid on Hair

When using glycolic acid on hair, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure safety and effectiveness. Here are some tips on how to safely use glycolic acid on hair:

Start with a low concentration: It is important to start with a low concentration of glycolic acid, such as 5%, and gradually increase the concentration as needed. This will help prevent damage to the hair and scalp.
Use a pH-balanced product: Look for a glycolic acid product that is pH-balanced, as this will help prevent irritation and damage to the hair and scalp.
Apply to clean, dry hair: Before applying glycolic acid to your hair, make sure it is clean and dry. This will help the product penetrate the hair shaft more effectively.
Avoid the scalp: When applying glycolic acid to your hair, avoid getting it on your scalp. This can cause irritation and damage to the scalp.
Use a neutralizing product: After applying glycolic acid to your hair, use a neutralizing product to help restore the pH balance of your hair and scalp.

Why You Should Trust Haireveryday?

The author of this article, Leah Marie Priest has a degree in Cosmetology with years of experience in dealing with hair care, scalp care, and hairstyling. As someone who extensively deals with all kinds of hair textures, products, styling methods and more, hair Leah Marie knows what kind of products and procedures suit each hair type and person. We have also tested these hair products and processes ourselves to provide you an unbiased review about every product. Each of our articles are also reviewed by a team of medical professionals so that you get the most accurate and expert-reviewed information.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Can Glycolic Acid Be Used on Hair?

Glycolic acid can be used on hair once a week. It is important not to overuse it, as it can cause damage to the hair and scalp. It is recommended to start with a lower concentration of glycolic acid and gradually increase it over time if needed.

Can Glycolic Acid Affect Hair Dye?

Yes, glycolic acid can affect hair dye. It is important to wait at least a week after dyeing your hair before using glycolic acid on it. This will allow the hair dye to set and prevent any damage or fading from occurring.

Is Glycolic Acid Safe for All Hair Types?

Glycolic acid is safe for most hair types, but it is important to do a patch test before using it on your entire head. Those with sensitive scalps or damaged hair should use caution when using glycolic acid and consult with a dermatologist or hair care professional before use.
So I think that glycolic acid can be a great addition to your hair care routine when used properly and in moderation. It can help to exfoliate the scalp, promote hair growth, and improve the overall health and appearance of your hair.

Conclusion

Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is commonly used in skincare products to exfoliate the skin and improve its texture and appearance. It works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed.

When used on hair, glycolic acid is said to have similar exfoliating properties, helping to remove buildup and promote healthy hair growth. However, there are concerns about the potential damage that glycolic acid could cause to the hair and scalp.