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Glycolic Fix Night Pads Extreme

Glycolic Fix Night Pads Extreme

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A potent multi-acid exfoliating pad with 5% glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid and niacinamide. Pre-soaked biodegradable pads deliver an at-home acid peel effect to brighten, decongest pores, combat blackheads and refine skin texture overnight. Use 2–3 times per week at night for smoother, clearer, glowing skin.

5% Glycolic Acid Multi-Acid Blend (AHA + BHA) Niacinamide Hyaluronic Acid Vegan Cruelty-Free Biodegradable Pads Paraben-Free
Pregnancy
No
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Type
Exfoliating Pads
Size
60 Pads (2.7 oz)
Price
~$14.95
Key Active
5% Glycolic Acid
Use
PM Only, 2–3x/week
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Multi-Acid Powerhouse

Combines 5% glycolic acid with salicylic, lactic and mandelic acids for surface and pore-level exfoliation in one convenient pad.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Liquid-soaked pad
Scent
Light citrus
Absorption
30–60 seconds
Finish
Slightly tacky, matte

Multi-Acid Powerhouse

Combines 5% glycolic acid with salicylic, lactic and mandelic acids for surface and pore-level exfoliation in one convenient pad.

Brightening & Resurfacing

Dissolves dead skin cells and stimulates cell turnover, revealing a brighter, smoother and more even-toned complexion overnight.

Pore-Clearing BHA

Salicylic acid penetrates into pores to flush out sebum and congestion, combating blackheads and reducing blemishes at the source.

Hydration Support

Sodium hyaluronate and panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) help offset drying effects, keeping skin hydrated, soft and comfortable after exfoliation.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Not recommended. Contains salicylic acid (BHA) which is advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before use.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Not safe. Contains Polysorbate 20, a fatty acid ester that can feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne.

Low Comedogenic Risk

Rated 1/5. Water-based formula with no heavy oils or butters. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.

Contains Fragrance

Contains Parfum and fragrance allergens (Limonene, Geraniol, Citral, Linalool). May irritate sensitive or reactive skin.

Sun Sensitivity

AHA and BHA increase photosensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ the morning after use. Night-time use only.

Vegan & Cruelty-Free

No animal-derived ingredients and not tested on animals. Biodegradable pad substrate.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Glycolic Acid 5%Proven

The smallest AHA molecule, glycolic acid penetrates deeply to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, accelerate cell turnover, boost collagen production and improve skin luminosity. At 5%, it delivers effective exfoliation suitable for regular weekly use.

  • Research: Concentrations of 5–20% glycolic acid have been shown effective in clinical studies for improving texture, tone and fine lines.
  • Mechanism: Breaks down corneocyte adhesion in the stratum corneum, promoting desquamation and stimulating new cell growth.
  • Bonus: Increases natural hyaluronic acid production in the skin, boosting inherent hydration.
May cause mild tingling on first use. Increases sun sensitivity — always wear SPF the following morning.

Salicylic Acid <2%Proven

A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble and can penetrate into pores to dissolve sebum plugs, making it highly effective against blackheads, whiteheads and blemishes. Also offers anti-inflammatory benefits.

  • Research: Gold standard for acne-prone skin. Exfoliates within pores where AHAs cannot reach.
  • Mechanism: Dissolves intercellular lipids and keratin plugs inside follicles, effectively unclogging congested pores.
Not recommended during pregnancy. Can be drying if overused — stick to the recommended 2–3 times per week.

Niacinamide Listed 6thProven

Vitamin B3 is a versatile antioxidant that helps minimize enlarged pores, regulate sebum production, reduce redness and inflammation, and improve overall skin barrier function. Works well alongside acids.

  • Research: Extensively studied. At 2–5%, niacinamide reduces sebum, pore size and hyperpigmentation.
  • Synergy: Complements glycolic acid by soothing inflammation and strengthening the skin barrier during exfoliation.
Generally well-tolerated by all skin types. Helps reduce irritation from acids.

Lactic Acid SupportingProven

A gentler AHA that exfoliates the skin surface while also acting as a humectant, attracting moisture to the skin. Helps improve firmness and reduce fine lines at higher concentrations.

  • Research: At 10%+ concentrations it improves skin thickness and firmness. Here it supports glycolic acid in a multi-acid approach.
  • Bonus: More moisturizing than glycolic acid, helping balance the drying effects of the formula.

Mandelic Acid SupportingPromising

Derived from bitter almonds, mandelic acid is a larger AHA molecule that works more slowly and gently than glycolic acid. It also has antibacterial properties, making it particularly helpful for acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

  • Research: Promising results for acne-prone and darker skin tones due to lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
  • Mechanism: Slower penetration rate means less irritation while still providing effective exfoliation.

Sodium Hyaluronate TraceProven

A low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into the skin to provide hydration from within. Helps counteract dryness associated with acid exfoliation.

  • Research: Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. Improves skin hydration, plumpness and resilience.

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) SupportingProven

A well-studied moisturizing and skin-protective ingredient with anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. Helps soothe skin after acid exfoliation.

  • Research: Improves skin barrier function, reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and accelerates skin repair.

22 ingredients

Aqua (Water/Eau), Glycolic Acid, Triethanolamine, Glycerin, Polysorbate 20, Niacinamide, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Benzyl Alcohol, Disodium EDTA, Mandelic Acid, Panthenol, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Limonene, Parfum (Fragrance), Benzyl Benzoate, Dehydroacetic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Geraniol, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Citral, Linalool.

FREE FROM: Parabens, Mineral Oil, Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Silicones, Phthalates, Dyes/Colorants, Propylene Glycol, Lanolin, Coconut Derivatives, Gluten, Retinoids, Hydroquinone
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
This Product
3
Serum
4
Moisturizer
5
SPF (AM after)

Use as Step 2 (treatment) in your PM routine, 2–3 times per week. On non-acid nights, use your regular toner/serum. Always follow with SPF 30+ the next morning.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Your Face

Remove all makeup and cleanse your face thoroughly. Pat dry with a clean towel. Use on clean, dry skin only.

2

Swipe One Pad Across Skin

Take a single pad and wipe it across your face, neck and décolleté. Avoid the delicate eye area. One pad is enough for the entire face.

3

Leave On & Continue Routine

Do not rinse off. Allow the solution to absorb for 2–3 minutes, then follow with your serum and moisturizer. A slight tingling sensation is normal.

4

Apply SPF Next Morning

AHAs and BHAs increase sun sensitivity. Apply SPF 30 or higher the following morning to protect freshly exfoliated skin.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have oily, congested or acne-prone skin
  • You want to reduce blackheads, enlarged pores and blemishes
  • You struggle with dull, uneven skin tone or texture
  • You want an affordable at-home chemical peel experience
  • You prefer convenient pre-soaked pads over liquid toners
  • You have keratosis pilaris (KP) or body breakouts

Consider alternatives if:

  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains salicylic acid)
  • You have very sensitive skin or active rosacea
  • You are already using strong retinoids or other potent acids daily
  • You have fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 20)
  • You are sensitive to fragrance or fragrance allergens
  • You prefer fragrance-free products
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Ideal match. The AHA/BHA blend controls excess sebum, decongests pores and mattifies without over-drying. Best results with 2–3x weekly use.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Targets the oily T-zone while niacinamide and hyaluronic acid support drier areas. Well-balanced formula for mixed skin types.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Salicylic acid penetrates pores to clear congestion. Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Helps reduce breakouts and post-acne marks over time.

Normal Skin
Good

Great weekly maintenance for radiance and texture refinement. Start with once a week and increase to 2–3 times as tolerated.

Dry Skin
Moderate

Use once a week maximum. Follow immediately with a rich moisturizer. The acids can be drying — lactic acid and panthenol help, but pair with hydrating products.

Sensitive Skin
Moderate

Use with caution — once a week only. Contains fragrance and multiple acids. Patch test first. Consider the regular (non-extreme) version instead.

08

Results timeline

MONTH 2–3
Day 1–3

Immediate Smoothness & Glow

Skin feels noticeably smoother and looks brighter after just the first use. Light tingling during application is normal. Dead surface skin cells are dissolved overnight.

85% noticed immediate smoothness
Week 1–2

Pores Look Cleaner, Fewer Blackheads

Salicylic acid begins clearing pore congestion. Blackheads become less visible, skin texture starts evening out. Some users may experience mild purging if congestion was severe.

70% reported reduced blackheads
Week 3–4

Visibly Brighter & More Even Tone

Consistent use reveals a brighter, more even complexion. Dark spots and post-acne marks begin to fade. Pores appear smaller and more refined.

75% saw improved radiance
Month 2–3

Clearer, Transformed Skin

Full exfoliation cycle is complete. Blemishes are significantly reduced, skin texture is refined, and the complexion has a healthy, consistent glow. Fine lines may appear softened.

80% reported clearer skin overall
09

Ratings by platform

15K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.4
Rating
14,500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Fragrance is too strong for some; occasional reports of sticky residue left on skin
Boots UK
4.7
Rating
167+
Reviews
Main complaint: Product can be hard to find in stores; some users wish it were available in larger quantities
MakeupAlley
4.2
Rating
80+
Reviews
Main complaint: Not "extreme" enough for experienced acid users; fragrance noted as unnecessary
Influenster
4.3
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users found pads too thin; a few reported a sticky film after application
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Affordable multi-acid exfoliant — great value at ~$0.25 per pad
  • Convenient pre-soaked pads make consistent use easy
  • Noticeable smoothness and glow from first use
  • Effective at clearing blackheads, congestion and blemishes
  • Biodegradable pads — environmentally conscious
  • Can also be used on body (KP, back acne)
  • Niacinamide and panthenol help soothe during exfoliation
  • Endorsed by skincare experts like Caroline Hirons

Criticized

  • Contains fragrance — may irritate sensitive or reactive skin
  • Not as "extreme" as the name suggests for experienced acid users
  • Can leave a slightly sticky residue that some users dislike
  • Pads are quite thin — may feel underwhelming compared to thicker pads
  • Not pregnancy-safe or fungal-acne-safe
  • 5% glycolic acid is moderate — heavier exfoliation needs may not be met
  • Contains Butylphenyl Methylpropional (Lilial), a controversial fragrance ingredient
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
$7.90
Budget Pick

Much stronger formula (30% AHA + 2% BHA) used as a 10-minute rinse-off mask 1–2x per week. More intense results but higher irritation risk. Not a daily-use pad format — different application method.

85% Match
AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
$15.00
Similar Price

Liquid toner with gentle AHA/BHA blend for daily use. Less potent than the Nip+Fab pads but fragrance-free and fungal-acne-safe. Apply with a cotton pad. Better for sensitive skin.

75% Match
Glow Tonic
$15.00
Similar Price

Same 5% glycolic acid concentration in a liquid toner format with aloe vera. No salicylic acid or multi-acid blend. Gentler overall, better for daily use, but lacks the BHA pore-clearing action.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Facial Radiance Pads With Glycolic + Lactic Acids
Key Actives Glycolic + Lactic Acid (low %)
Pad Count 60 pads
Cost Per Pad ~$0.50
Fragrance-Free Yes
Best For Sensitive skin, acid beginners
Glow Peel Pads
Key Actives 20% Glycolic Acid
Pad Count 60 pads
Cost Per Pad ~$0.37
Fragrance-Free No
Best For Experienced acid users, anti-aging
Alpha Beta® Extra Strength Daily Peel

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength Peel

Key Actives Multi-acid + anti-aging complex
Pad Count 30 treatments (2-step)
Cost Per Pad ~$3.07
Fragrance-Free Yes
Best For Anti-aging, luxury peel experience
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent pads from drying out.

Packaging

Screw-top tub with 60 pre-soaked biodegradable pads

Travel Friendly

Yes — solid pad format, 2.7 oz is under the 3.4 oz TSA liquid limit for carry-on

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

No. This product contains salicylic acid (a BHA), which is generally advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While the concentration is low, most dermatologists recommend avoiding salicylic acid in leave-on products during this time. Consult your healthcare provider before use. The regular Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Daily Pads (without salicylic acid) may be a safer alternative, but always confirm with your doctor.

No. The formula contains Polysorbate 20, a fatty acid ester that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you have confirmed fungal acne, look for alternatives that are free of polysorbates, fatty acids and esters, such as the COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner.

Use with caution. Since this product already contains both AHA (glycolic, lactic, mandelic) and BHA (salicylic acid), layering additional acids on the same night can cause over-exfoliation and irritation. Alternate nights: use the pads 2–3 nights per week, and use retinol or other actives on the off-nights. Vitamin C is best used in your morning routine, while these pads are used at night — this combination works well when separated by AM/PM. Avoid using strong retinoids (like tretinoin) and these pads on the same evening.

This product is best suited for oily, combination and acne-prone skin types. The multi-acid formula with salicylic acid specifically targets excess oil, congested pores and blemishes. Normal skin types can also benefit from weekly use for radiance. Dry and sensitive skin types should use sparingly (once a week maximum) and always follow with a rich moisturizer.

Most users notice smoother, brighter skin after the very first use. Visible improvement in blackheads and pore congestion typically appears within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. Significant results in skin tone, texture and blemish reduction are usually seen within 3–4 weeks. Full transformation, including fading of post-acne marks, can take 2–3 months of regular use.

Use as Step 2 in your evening routine, right after cleansing. Swipe one pad across clean, dry skin, then wait 2–3 minutes before applying your serum and moisturizer. Do not use a separate toner before these pads — they serve as your exfoliating treatment step. Use 2–3 times per week at night only, and always follow with SPF 30+ the next morning.

This product has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. The water-based formula contains no heavy oils, waxes or butters. In fact, the AHA/BHA combination actively works to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells. It is generally considered non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin.

The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. With 60 pads and a recommended usage of 2–3 times per week, one tub should last approximately 5–7 months. Keep the lid tightly closed after each use to prevent the pads from drying out. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Night Pads Extreme deliver excellent value as a multi-acid exfoliating treatment. The combination of 5% glycolic acid with salicylic, lactic and mandelic acids provides effective resurfacing and pore-clearing action at a fraction of the cost of premium alternatives. They are ideal for oily, combination and acne-prone skin types looking for a convenient weekly chemical peel. The main drawbacks are the presence of fragrance (which may bother sensitive users), Polysorbate 20 (making it unsuitable for fungal acne) and salicylic acid (ruling it out for pregnancy). For the price point, however, this remains one of the best-value exfoliating pad treatments on the market — a well-deserved cult favourite endorsed by skincare professionals.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 5 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Niacinamide Lactic Acid Hyaluronic Acid Mandelic Acid
brightening Brightening from 7 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Glycerin Niacinamide Lactic Acid Salicylic Acid Hyaluronic Acid Mandelic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Glycerin Niacinamide Panthenol Hyaluronic Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 3 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Niacinamide Salicylic Acid
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
2
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2 2
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
30% 40% 30%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 20 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
4 B
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
3 B
Polysorbate 20
Surfactant, Emulsifying
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
3 B
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS