Minimalist Glycolic Acid 08% Exfoliating Liquid Versus Geek & Gorgeous Smooth Out
Updated on September 25, 2023
Overview
What they are
These products are both cruelty-free, fungal acne (malassezia) safe, and reef safe exfoliators. They have a total of 3 ingredients in common
Cool Features
They both contain AHA and hyaluronic acid
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for anti aging, brightening skin, oily skin, reducing pores, scar healing, dark spots and better texture
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances, oils, parabens, silicones or sulfates
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.
Ingredient Info
Minimalist Glycolic Acid 08% Exfoliating Liquid 10 ingredients
Geek & Gorgeous Smooth Out 20 ingredients
About this product
About this product
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
Minimalist Glycolic Acid 08% Exfoliating Liquid 10 ingredients
Geek & Gorgeous Smooth Out 20 ingredients
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Water
Skin ConditioningGlycolic Acid
Buffering
Lactic Acid
Buffering
Sodium Hydroxide
BufferingGlycerin
Humectant
Methyl Gluceth-20
HumectantGalactoarabinan
Panthenol
Skin Conditioning
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer
Humectant
Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract
Skin ConditioningSaccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract
Skin ConditioningXylitylglucoside
HumectantAnhydroxylitol
HumectantXylitol
HumectantPentylene Glycol
Skin ConditioningGlucose
HumectantEthylhexylglycerin
Skin ConditioningSodium Benzoate
Masking
Potassium Benzoate
Preservative
Phenoxyethanol
Preservative
Water, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Glycerin, Methyl Gluceth-20, Galactoarabinan, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract, Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitol, Pentylene Glycol, Glucose, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Glycolic Acid is arguably the most famous AHA with a ton of research to back up its benefits.
Its main role is to remove the top layer of dead skin cells, allowing newer skin cells to emerge.
Specifically, AHAs work by breaking down the structural "glue" holding the old skin cells in place. Getting rid of the old skin cells allows skin to regenerate newer skin cells in its place. A build up of dead skin cells can lead to tired and dull looking skin.
Due to this, glycolic acid helps with:
Fun fact: Glycolic acid increases skin hydration by playing a role in creating molecules that create hyaluronic acid naturally.
When starting glycolic Acid, it is normal to feel slight stinging.
The pH value and concentration of glycolic acid play a role in the effectiveness of the product. Concentrations between 5-20% glycolic acid have been shown to be effective in clinical studies.
Recent studies have shown Glycolic Acid may protect the skin against UV damage. However, you should always wear SPF, especially when using exfoliants.
Read more about some other popular AHA's here:
Learn more about Glycolic AcidPhenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.
It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.
Ethylhexylglycerin (we can't pronounce this either) is commonly used as a preservative and skin softener. It is derived from glyceryl.
You might see Ethylhexylglycerin often paired with other preservatives such as phenoxyethanol. Ethylhexylglycerin has been found to increase the effectiveness of these other preservatives.
Ingredient Ratings
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these products.
When to use
Minimalist Glycolic Acid 08% Exfoliating Liquid 10 ingredients
Geek & Gorgeous Smooth Out 20 ingredients
Reviews
Here's what our community thinks
Minimalist Glycolic Acid 08% Exfoliating Liquid 10 ingredients
Great for dark spots and tan removal, those who can't afford the ordinary glycolic acid toner, can go for this one
