We’re thrilled to introduce a third formula to our Gleanser family: Gleanser + Glycolic, our non-drying glycolic acid cleanser for face and body.

Each of our Gleansers earn their name for their high glycerin content—50%. They all meet the same plush, non-stripping Gleanser standard, effectively removing excess oil and impurities while maintaining skin's natural moisture barrier. And all three formulas are clinically proven to provide 24 hour moisture after just a single use.

Below, everything you need to know about what makes Gleanser + Glycolic distinct.

What’s the Difference Between Gleanser + Glycolic and Gleanser + SA?

Both glycolic acid and salicylic acid are exfoliating acids, but they have different properties and different benefits, making them suitable for different skin types and concerns.

Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and it’s also water-soluble. Both of those properties make it very effective at getting through the skin’s outermost layers—loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, encouraging the natural exfoliation process, and accelerating skin cell turnover. Using Gleanser + Glycolic promotes brighter, smoother, firmer-looking skin for all-over glow.

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA). Unlike AHA’s, BHA’s are oil-soluble, which allows them to penetrate pores to dissolve sebum and dead skin cells. In other words: Salicylic acid is really good at getting into your pores and clearing them out. It's ideal for people who have oily, congested, or combination skin. Using Gleanser + SA is a great way to address excess sebum, oilier skin issues, and minimize the appearance of pores on your face and body.

The Gleanser + Glycolic Formula

Gleanser + Glycolic is formulated with 5% glycolic acid, which is the perfect amount of glycolic acid in a cleanser to effectively exfoliate and impart glow while still being gentle on the skin. Using 5% glycolic acid in a hydrating, rinse-off formula affords you the skin-smoothing, skin-softening benefits of this AHA while still respecting the integrity of your skin barrier.

This formula uses a high-purity glycolic acid produced through formaldehyde-free processing and purification. We also worked to optimize the pH of this product to 4.2, which allows for the glycolic acid to effectively exfoliate the skin without causing irritation.

Of course, like all Gleansers, this formula has 50% glycerin, which not only helps hydrate the skin, but also prevents those cleansing surfactants from disturbing the skin barrier. We included inulin, a prebiotic humectant, to boost skin's resilience and help balance your skin's microbiome for overall skin health.

How Do I Incorporate Gleanser + Glycolic Into My Routine?

When you’re incorporating acids of any kind into a new routine, bring them in slowly: Start by using just one to two days a week and increase as your skin tolerates. Always patch test new products before use

There are a few ways to use Gleanser + Glycolic on both your face and body, depending on your skin's unique needs and goals. If you have more dry, mature skin and you want to gently encourage skin cell turnover to help with skin tone and the appearance of fine lines, you might try building up to using this formula every day. If you have sensitive skin, try just a couple times a week: You’ll get some of the benefits of glycolic acid without overwhelming your skin.

If you already use a higher concentration glycolic acid product intermittently, like our Multi-Acid Milk Peel, try incorporating this cleanser in between those applications one to two times a week to help encourage and maintain your glow without overdoing it.

Gleanser + Glycolic is also a great way to prep your skin for shaving. You get that gentle exfoliation mixing with the warm water of the shower, and the gentle exfoliation helps with ingrows and body bumps.

Lastly, if your skin isn’t sensitive, you can use this formula as a mask: Leave it on skin for up to five minutes to maximize the exfoliating benefits of glycolic acid.

Can I Use More than One Gleanser Formula?

You can use all three formulas in your routine, alternating your cleanser depending on what your skin needs that particular day. We like to think of it as the Gleanser wardrobe. As a recap:

• Use Gleanser when you want to deeply cleanse while hydrating, softening skin, and boosting skin suppleness.

• Use Gleanser + SA when you want to deeply cleanse while gently exfoliating to address oily skin issues and minimize the appearance of pores.

• Use Gleanser + Glycolic when you want to deeply cleanse while gently exfoliating and resurfacing for brighter, smoother, firmer-looking skin

Because each Gleanser is formulated for both the face and body, you might find that you want to reach for, say, Gleanser + Glycolic in the shower to wash your body, and use original Gleanser or Gleanser + SA for your face. It all depends on your skincare needs and goals.

DISCLAIMER: All skin care articles are intended to help educate on specific ingredients and skin care topics. Our articles are written to be informative and informational. Any reference to a specific patient experience is not a medical suggestion for treatment. Please note that any Prequel products with referenced ingredients are formulated for Cosmetic Use Only and NOT intended as replacements for physician advice and/or pharmaceutical product recommendations.