10 Best AHA Products That You Must Buy Online In 2023
Must-have skin essentials that understand your skin woes and help you get your glow.
Hillary ClarkEsthetician
Expertise: Makeup & Skin Care
Experience: 21 years
Hillary Clark is a third-generation beauty entrepreneur, celebrity makeup artist, and medical esthetician with 21 years of experience. Her stints as the youngest Beauty Director for Nordstrom and West Coast Beauty Editor for Sephora provide... more
Oyendrila Kanjilal Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 2 years
Oyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience,... more
Shiboli ChakrabortiCertified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 4 years
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce edito... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Read on if you are curious to know why the best AHA products are essential for your skin to remain healthy and glowing. AHAs or alpha-hydroxy acids are present in many of your skincare products. They are chemical exfoliants that work on the skin’s surface to exfoliate its dead cells to illuminate your skin tone. Other exfoliant chemicals in this class include glycolic acid, citric acid (some forms), and lactic acid. These exfoliants are also used in many toners, masks, serums, and cleansers, so you get the glass skin you’ve always dreamt of. To help you pick the best one, we’ve prepared a list of the 10 best AHA products available online.
In This Article
What Are AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids)?
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a class of naturally occurring chemical compounds. They are derived from plant or animal sources and used in a variety of skin care products. They are commonly used in anti-aging skin care products. From dealing with clogged pores to recurring acne, AHAs offer amazing benefits and can handle all skin issues with ease.
Check out the 10 best AHA products on the market right now in the next section!
10 Best AHA Products Available Right Now
1. Best Overall: The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
Image: The Ordinary The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a cult-favorite among people who swear by chemical peels. This product contains three AHAs – lactic, salicylic, and glycolic acids – and beta hydroxy salicylic acid. It is a 10-minute exfoliating peel that reduces dark spots and blemishes and the appearance of fine lines. It improves your skin texture with continuous use. It also unclogs pores and visibly improves uneven skin texture. It is suitable for normal, oily, and combination skin types. This popular product has left reviewers seriously impressed by its performance. If you need further convincing, check out this YouTuber’s review.
Pros
- Reduces dark spots and blemishes
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines
- Improves skin texture
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- No harmful chemicals
- Suitable for normal, oily, and combination skin types
Cons
None
Pro Tip2. Best For Acne-Prone Skin: Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
Image: Botanic Tree Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser is an acne facial cleanser. It is infused with glycolic acid, tea tree, peppermint, lavender, shea butter, seaweed, willow bark, and bamboo that help exfoliate the skin. This anti-aging cleanser helps unclog pores, remove dead skin cells and dirt, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and eliminate oil build-up. It also has acne-fighting properties that may prevent breakouts, redness, and blemishes. You can check this video out if you need to know more about the product.
Pros
- Unclogs pores
- Removes dead skin cells
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Treats acne
- Reduces redness
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Strong fragrance
3. Best For Dry Skin: Alpha Skin Care Renewal Body Lotion
Image: Alpha Skin Care Alpha Skin Care Renewal Body Lotion is a moisturizing body lotion. It is formulated with the optimal balance of 12% glycolic alpha hydroxy acid that improves collagen production and has wrinkle-reducing properties. This anti-aging body lotion gently removes dead skin cells and evens out the skin tone. It is also infused with vitamins and nutrients that moisturize and soothe your skin.
Pros
- Relieves dry skin
- Supports collagen production
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Evens out the skin tone and texture
- Makes skin soft and smooth
- Moisturizes the skin
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Sticky formula
4. Best For All Skin Types: Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
Image: Body Merry Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser is an anti-aging exfoliating cleanser for all skin types. It is infused with natural jojoba wax beads to remove dead skin cells, excess dirt, and oil build-up. It also contains kojic acid that helps brighten and even out skin tone. A blend of rosehip, olive, and tea tree oils nourishes and moisturizes the skin. This cleanser is also enriched with willow bark and cucumber that fight acne, wrinkles, and dark spots. This formula has received thousands of positive reviews from its users. To find out more about this product, check this video review out.
Pros
- Exfoliates the skin
- Prevents and treats breakouts and acne
- Reduces wrinkles and dark spots
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Moisturizes the skin
- Scented
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Too abrasive
5. Best For Sensitive Skin: First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub
Image: First Aid Beauty First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub is a dermatologist-tested oil-free body scrub. This dermatologist-tested exfoliating scrub is formulated with 10% glycolic and lactic acids that help loosen the skin’s top layer and decongest pores. The Pumice Buffing Beads remove all the dead skin cells to reveal brighter and smoother skin. It is also infused with vitamin E that nourishes and protects the skin and bisabolol that soothes the skin. Furthermore, this clinically proven, pore-clearing body scrub is safe for sensitive skin.
Pros
- Unclogs pores
- Exfoliates the skin
- Brightens the skin
- Dermatologist-tested
- Clinically-proven
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- No animal testing involved
Cons
- Expensive
Pro Tip6. Best For Dull Skin: Olay Masks Vitamin C + AHA Resurfacing Peel Kit
Image: Olay Olay Masks Vitamin C + AHA Resurfacing Peel Kit consists of the best serum and scrub duo. The Vitamin C Resurfacing Mask removes dead skin cells to reveal brighter and smoother skin. The AHA Peel Activator contains AHA and hydrated silica that polish dull skin. This kit exfoliates and renews your skin’s surface to remove all impurities.
Pros
- Rejuvenates dull skin
- Removes dead skin cells
- Improves skin texture
- Brightens and smoothens the skin
- Easy to use
- Affordable
Cons
None
7. Best Skin-Soothing Formula: Touch 20% Glycolic Acid Pads
Image: Touch Touch 20% Glycolic Acid Pads are highly saturated exfoliating wipes. These resurfacing peel pads have a pH of 3.5 which enhances the penetration and absorption of the AHA. They are infused with skin-soothing, clinically-proven ingredients like chamomile, comfrey, green tea, and cucumber extracts that offer moisture protection, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-irritant properties. These 20% glycolic acid pads are great for treating dullness, fine lines, wrinkles, pores, uneven skin tone, bumpy skin, acne scars, melasma, and hyperpigmentation.
Pros
- Soothes the skin
- Reduces dullness, fine lines, and wrinkles
- Even out the skin tone
- Improve skin texture
- Easy to use
- Moisturizes the skin
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- Sticky formula
8. Best For Skin Brightning: InstaNatural 7% Glycolic AHA Toner
Image: Instanatural InstaNatural 7% Glycolic Acid Toner is a skin-hydrating tonic for the face. This face toner is infused with 7% glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and soothing botanicals that brighten the appearance of uneven and dull skin. It also reduces the appearance of dark spots, pores, and hyperpigmentation. This 7% glycolic AHA toner has skin-smoothing benefits and helps remove any uneven skin texture and minimizes pores while providing a radiant complexion.
Pros
- Brightens the skin
- Reduces dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- Minimizes pores
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Mineral oil-free
- SLS-free
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
None
9. Best Budget-Friendly: Elizavecca Hell Pore Clean Up AHA Fruit Toner
Image: Elizavecca Hell Pore Clean Up Aha Fruit If you are looking for an effective AHA pore-refining product, try the Elizavecca Hell Pore Clean Up AHA Fruit Toner. It is a multipurpose toner formulated with AHA, BHA, foot fruit, sea cucumber extract, and 4.3% natural oil that help eliminate impurities left over after washing your face. It also keeps your skin moisturized. This fruit toner unclogs pores, smoothes wrinkles, and brightens and evens out your skin tone.
Pros
- Unclogs pores
- Exfoliates the skin
- Reduces wrinkles
- Brightens the skin
- Pleasant fragrance
- Affordable
Cons
- May dry out the skin
10. Best For Glow: Aveeno Positively Radiant MaxGlow Peel Off Mask
Image: Aveeno Aveeno Positively Radiant MaxGlow Peel Off Mask is an exfoliating face mask. This scientifically formlauted soothing and brightening mask is formulated with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and a moisture-rich soy and kiwi complex that helps even out the skin tone and texture. It acts as a soap-free, no-rinse exfoliator that reduces dullness to reveal smooth and glowing skin.
Pros
- Exfoliates the skin
- Brightens the skin
- Soothes the skin
- Evens out the skin tone and texture
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
Cons
None
Now that you know all about the best AHA products on the market, let’s check out how to include them in your skin care routine.
How To Use AHA Products In Your Skin Care Routine
When it comes to your AHA skincare routine, it depends on the kind of products you use. The usage of AHA products will differ from product to product, and will also depend on your skin type. Here are a few common products that AHA can be found in:
- AHA Body Lotions
You can apply AHA body lotion just like a typical body lotion. First, shower with a water-soluble body wash to remove impurities and excess oil. When applying the AHA body lotions, focus on areas that need exfoliation for smooth and even skin. Also, the amount of lotion to use depends on your skin type.
- AHA Masks
AHA masks have a higher concentration of AHAs and should be used with caution. Generally, the usage of these masks should not exceed once a week. You can either apply these masks on your face or use them as AHA spot treatments. After rinsing off the mask, avoid applying another exfoliating product as it may lead to irritation. Instead, apply a moisturizer to avoid any irritation and soothe your skin.
- AHA Serums And Toners
Always read the product label for guidelines before using an AHA serum or toner. Some people may be able to use a leave-on AHA product daily, whereas others may find that they get the best results by just using it a few times a week. The amount and usage of these serums and toners depends on your skin type, the concentration of AHAs, and the course action.
Infographic: Things To Consider Before Buying AHA Products
AHA products are the latest rage in the skin care industry for delivering improved skin texture. They help address concerns, such as fine lines, uneven skin tone, and dullness. Therefore, choosing a good AHA product requires thorough research to ensure it is suitable for your skin type and concerns. The infographic below lists the key factors to consider before purchasing AHA products. Check it out!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.
Download Infographic
The Bottom Line
AHA is a chemical exfoliant containing citric acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid that help exfoliate dead skin cells and clogged pores from the skin surface. These Alpha hydroxy acids are present in many skin care products like toners and facemasks, particularly anti-aging products to keep your skin soft and radiant. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a potent treatment for intensive exfoliation, while the Alpha Skin Care Renewal Body Lotion is a milder option for regular use on the body to improve overall skin texture and tone. To protect, brighten, and rejuvenate your skin, Olay Masks Vitamin C + AHA Resurfacing Peel Kit would be our favourite pick. These products are paraben-free, cruelty-free, and oil-free. However, some AHA products may have strong fragrances. Our buying guide will help you choose the best AHA products suitable for your skin type.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Oyendrila Kanjilal, is a certified skin care coach and is a strong advocate of exfoliating the skin regularly to remove dead cells. After thorough research and a deep analysis of online user reviews, she has narrowed down on the best AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids) products — toners, masks, serums, and cleansers — that help you exfoliate your skin and make it healthy and radiant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use AHA daily?
You can use AHAs on a daily basis. But, people with sensitive skin may experience irritation when using AHAs daily.
What does AHA do for your skin?
AHAs can exfoliate the skin, remove dead skin cells, brighten your skin tone, and promote skin cell turnover. Also, AHA skincare benefits the skin by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improving skin texture and tone.
Is AHA the same as glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is naturally found in sugar cane.
Can you use AHA products with retinol?
Yes, using a combination of AHA and retinol will prevent hyperpigmentation caused due to severe acne. However, when using these products, follow a simple AHA skincare tip to avoid skin irritation — do not use them at the same time.
Can you use AHA products during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Yes, AHA products are considered safe during pregnancy. However, it is better to avoid them while breastfeeding.
Is AHA salicylic acid?
Yes, salicylic acid is a type of AHA or alpha-hydroxy acid. The other types of hydroxy acids include glycolic acid and lactic acid.
How long does it take for AHA to show results?
It may take around two to three months for the AHA products to show satisfactory results.
Recommended Articles
- Best BHA Exfoliants For Chemical Exfoliation At Home
- Best Salicylic Acid Products
- Best Glycolic Acid Lotions
- Best Glycolic Acid Toners
- Best pH-Balanced Body Washes For Women
