Gulab & Glycolic Acid Serum - 30ml

What you need to know

This is a serum from Dr. Sheth's priced at ₹499.

Key ingredients

This serum reportedly combines gulab, or rose water, with glycolic acid. Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) known for its ability to exfoliate the surface layers of the skin. It works by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing brighter, smoother skin underneath. However, the 'how this goes wrong' with glycolic acid is its potential for irritation, redness, and increased sun sensitivity, especially in higher concentrations or with frequent use. Over-exfoliation can compromise the skin barrier, leading to dryness and breakouts. Rose water is included for its purported soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, aiming to mitigate some of the potential irritation from the glycolic acid. While rose water can offer some calming benefits, its efficacy in truly counteracting strong active ingredients is limited. The lack of a full INCI list makes it impossible to assess the concentration of actives or the presence of other beneficial or potentially irritating ingredients.

Who should use this

This serum is best suited for individuals with normal to combination skin types experiencing mild dullness, uneven texture, or very early signs of pigmentation. It could be a good starting point for those new to chemical exfoliants who want to test their skin's tolerance for AHAs.

Who should skip this

Those with sensitive, compromised, or acne-prone skin should approach this with extreme caution, if not skip it entirely. Pregnant women should avoid glycolic acid and opt for a 100% mineral sunscreen. Anyone with moderate to severe pigmentation or significant textural issues will likely find this serum too mild to deliver noticeable results. Do not use if you are already using another active ingredient in your routine.

How to use

Apply a few drops to clean, dry skin in the evening, after cleansing and before moisturizing. Start by using it 2-3 times per week and observe how your skin reacts. Always follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen the following morning, as glycolic acid increases sun sensitivity. Do not layer with other active ingredients.

What users say

With 1442 reviews on Nykaa, users generally praise this serum for its ability to improve dull skin, mild pigmentation, and texture. Many appreciate the combination of rose water for soothing effects alongside the exfoliation from glycolic acid. Users find it gentle enough for regular use and well-priced.

Price context

At Rs499 for 30ml, this serum is exceptionally well-priced, making it an accessible entry point into chemical exfoliation. Compared to similar glycolic acid serums from international brands, it offers significant value. While there might be other Indian brands offering glycolic acid at a similar price, Dr. Sheth's unique blend with traditional Indian ingredients like gulab offers a distinct proposition, especially for those looking for a gentler approach.

Final take

This serum is a decent, budget-friendly option for those seeking a mild exfoliating treatment for dull skin and minor textural concerns. Its combination of glycolic acid and rose water aims for a gentler experience, which can be beneficial for beginners. However, for more pronounced skin issues, a more targeted and potent treatment would likely be required. Always prioritize daily sunscreen, especially when using AHAs.

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