What’s the difference between buffered and unbuffered glycolic acid?

The pH of a glycolic acid formula determines how active — and how potentially irritating — it is on the skin. Unbuffered glycolic acid sits at a lower pH (more acidic), which makes it more potent and faster-acting, but also more likely to cause irritation, especially for sensitive skin. Buffered glycolic acid has had its pH adjusted (raised) using a buffering agent, which reduces the speed of exfoliation and significantly lowers the risk of redness or stinging — while still delivering genuine results over time. A buffered formula is the recommended choice for anyone new to AHAs, for daily use, or for sensitive skin types. Reviva Labs uses buffered glycolic acid to make exfoliation effective and accessible without the harshness often associated with at-home acid treatments.