This is the best lactic acid treatment on our list because it works fast and feels surprisingly gentle, even on sensitive skin. It’s also a favorite of Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in NYC. “This powerful yet gentle treatment smooths texture, boosts radiance, and improves clarity without irritation. It utilizes vegan, biobased lactic acid, and is clinically proven to plump the skin, help minimize the appearance of fine lines, and improve skin radiance in only minutes,” she says.
- Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, licorice root, prickly pear
- Best for: All skin types, especially combination and sensitive skin
- Size: 1.7 fl oz.
“My very moody, combination skin drinks this serum up. I have a lot of acne scars on my chin and around my nose that have been stubborn and difficult to fade for quite some time. I first introduced this serum into my routine a few years ago, and was immediately impressed with how gentle and effective it was. It’s non-sticky, does a great job of smoothing out skin, and has never irritated me in the slightest, even if I apply it on an active breakout. This one gets all the gold stars from me in my book— these areas look much more clarified and calm,” says Glamour commerce writer, Alanna Martine Kilkeary.
Best for Acne: Paula’s Choice 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Exfoliant
Original video of Miah Hardy testing the Paula’s Choice 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Exfoliant
- Pros: Very gentle; helpst minimize dark spots
- Cons: Formula is sticky
If many exfoliating facial toners feel too intense, this one is a calmer alternative. It combines mandelic acid (also another gentle AHA) with lactic acid to improve discoloration. It’s also a favorite of Hope Mitchell, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Mitchell Dermatology. It’s great for smoothing texture and refining skin tone without being overly harsh,” she says.
- Key Ingredients: Mandelic acid, lactic acid
- Best for: Dark spots, acne, discoloration
- Size: 1 fl. oz.
Testing notes from Glamour contributor Miah Hardy
“Unlike other liquid exfoliants I’ve used in the past, this formula doesn’t burn or dry out my skin, making it a great option for sensitive skin. It leaves my complexion noticeably smoother with a healthy glow after each use, and it’s officially a staple in my everyday routine,” says Glamour contributor Miah Hardy.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Byoma Brightening Toner with Lactic Acid
Original video from Emily Tannenbaum testing Byoma Brightening Toner with Lactic Acid
- Pros: Affordable; easy to slot into any skincare routine
- Cons: A bit sticky and takes a minute to dry down
You don’t have to splurge to get effective lactic acid. This toner blends mandelic acid, lactic acid, and birch extract to gently smooth skin and make it appear brighter with fewer pores and blemishes.
- Key Ingredients: Mandelic acid, lactic acid
- Best for: Someone dealing with congested and oily skin
- Size: 5.07 fl oz.
“While I typically prefer a milky toner with soothing ingredients, the BYOMA Brightening Toner did not irritate my sensitive skin or cause redness like some products with lactic acid have in the past. Ultimately, it left my skin looking radiant in a “glow-from-within” kind of way even before moisturizer,” says Glamour contributor, Emily Tannenbaum.
Best Serum: Biossance Squalane + Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Biossance Squalane + Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum
- Pros: Lightweight, absorbs easily; doesn’t dry skin out
- Cons: Pricey for the size
By Alanna Martine Kilkeary
Source link
