The Ingredient Brief · № 13

AHA (Glycolic/Lactic Acid)

AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid help smooth the skin surface, brighten dullness, and improve texture when used with restraint.

Words by Rank.Beauty Editors·Updated April 2026·5 min read

Search velocity

Medium

Typically found in

Toners, Serums, Masks

Reader curiosity

“Exfoliation trending toward gentle chemical peels.”

What it does

Main benefits.

01
Smooths rough texture
02
Can improve visible glow
03
Useful for dull, uneven skin

To consider

Watchouts.

These acids can compromise the barrier when overused and should be paired with sunscreen.

In the routine

How AHA (Glycolic/Lactic Acid) fits in.

AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid help smooth the skin surface, brighten dullness, and improve texture when used with restraint.

Pairs well with

hyaluronic acid ceramides niacinamide vitamin b3

Best category fits

Exfoliants (AHA/BHA)Toners & Essences Face Masks Face Serums

From the archive

Products with AHA (Glycolic/Lactic Acid).

№ 02

Exfoliants (AHA/BHA)

CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment

CeraVe

$194.7★

№ 02

Sunscreen & SPF

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

EltaMD

$414.8★

№ 02

Toners & Essences

Pixi Glow Tonic Exfoliating Toner

Pixi

$184.7★

№ 03

Exfoliants (AHA/BHA)

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel Pads

Dr. Dennis Gross

$924.7★

№ 03

Vitamin C Serums & Products

Sunday Riley CEO Vitamin C Rich Hydration Cream

Sunday Riley

$854.6★

№ 04

Toners & Essences

COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner

COSRX

$164.5★

Comparison guides

Salicylic Acid vs Glycolic Acid →

Best-for pages

Best Exfoliants for Textured Skin →Best Face Masks for Dehydrated Skin →Best Toners for Glass Skin →

Continue the archive.

All Ingredients →Product Rankings →