Want the Most Out of Your Retinol? Here’s the Secret

Let’s cut to the chase—aging skin isn’t just about fine lines and wrinkles. It’s about dullness, uneven texture, and that frustrating feeling that your skincare products just aren’t doing enough. Enter glycolic acid and retinol: the powerhouse duo that can take your skin from meh to magnificent. But wait—aren’t we always told NOT to use glycolic acid with retinol? Well, yes… and no. Let’s break it down.

Why Glycolic Acid is the Glow-Giver Your Skin Needs

Glycolic acid is an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) that works its magic by exfoliating the top layer of dead skin cells. Think of it as a Marie Kondo moment for your skin—out with the old, in with the glow. This process not only smooths skin and brightens your complexion but also helps other active ingredients (hello, retinol!) penetrate more effectively.

The Problem With Pairing Glycolic Acid and Retinol

Now, here’s where things get tricky. Glycolic acid has a low pH, making it highly acidic, while retinol needs a stable, slightly higher pH environment to work optimally. Using them together, unbuffered, can lead to irritation, redness, and a one-way ticket to Over-Exfoliation Town. Not fun.

The Okana Solution: Buffered Glycolic Acid (AKA Smart Science for Happy Skin)
We at Okana love a good skincare hack, so we’ve taken glycolic acid and buffered it with arginine, an amino acid that raises the pH just enough to make it gentler without compromising its effectiveness. Buffering glycolic acid essentially slows down its penetration, making it less harsh while still giving you all the benefits—brighter skin, better exfoliation, and improved absorption of actives. Our formula for AHA/BHA liquid exfoliant contains 2% buffered glycolic acid, the perfect concentration for daily use and seamless pairing with other skincare superheroes (yes, even retinol!).

The Perfect Pairing: Glycolic Acid + Retinol for Next-Level Skin

Once glycolic acid has been buffered, it becomes far more flexible—meaning it can be paired with retinol of any strength for maximum results. Exfoliating away dead skin cells with glycolic acid creates a smooth pathway for retinol to dive deeper, making it more effective at boosting collagen, refining texture, and evening out skin tone. The result? Faster, more visible improvements without the usual irritation.
By combining our 2% Buffered Glycolic Liquid Exfoliant with retinol, you get the best of both worlds—gentle exfoliation, enhanced absorption, and powerful skin-renewing benefits with reduced sensitivity. No matter what type of retinol you’re using, from beginner-friendly options to prescription-strength formulas, buffered glycolic acid ensures a smoother, more effective experience.

And if you’re looking for an ultra-effective option, Okana’s Probiotic-Based Vitamin A+C Serum takes things up a notch with Retinol H10, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate (Vitamin C), and Bakuchiol—a superior blend designed to maximize results while keeping irritation low.

How to Use This Dynamic Duo

1.⁠ ⁠Nighttime Routine is Best: Use the glycolic acid exfoliant after cleansing, let it absorb, and follow up with retinol.
2.⁠ ⁠Start Slow: If you’re new to retinol, use it 2-3 times a week and gradually increase.
3.⁠ ⁠Hydration is Key: Follow up with a good moisturizer to keep your skin barrier happy.
4.⁠ ⁠Sunscreen: Every. Morning. Retinol and glycolic acid make your skin more sun-sensitive, so SPF is non-negotiable.

The Verdict? Retinol Just Got a Glow-Up

Using retinol alone is great—but pairing it with buffered glycolic acid? Game-changer. With Okana’s smartly formulated glycolic exfoliant and probiotic-based Vitamin A+C serum, you get all the glow, none of the drama.