10 Best AHA Products That You Must Buy Online In 2024

Must-have skin essentials that understand your skin woes and help you get your glow.

Reviewed by Hillary Clark, Esthetician Hillary Clark Hillary ClarkEsthetician facebook_iconlinkedin_iconinsta_icon
Written by , MA, Certified Skin Care Coach Oyendrila Kanjilal MA, Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 2 years
Edited by , MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Fact-checked by , BA, MSc Eshna Das BA, MSc linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Last Updated on

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.

Top Picks
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Best Overall:The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
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Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
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Best For Dry Skin:Alpha Skin Care Renewal Body Lotion
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Best For All Skin Types :Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
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Best For Sensitive Skin:First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub
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Best For Dull Skin:Olay Masks Vitamin C + AHA Resurfacing Peel Kit
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Best Skin-Soothing Formula:Touch 20% Glycolic Acid Pads
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Best For Skin Brightning:InstaNatural 7% Glycolic AHA Toner
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Best Budget-Friendly: Elizavecca Hell Pore Clean Up AHA Fruit Toner
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Best For Glow: Aveeno Positively Radiant MaxGlow Peel Off Mask
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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

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4.4

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.

Skin Type: Acne Prone | Product Dimensions: 1.97 x 1.97 x 3.94 inches | Weight: 1.06 Ounces

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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

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Cons

None

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We advise against using Vitamin C, retinol, and other acids after using this peel because of the strong acid content, intense exfoliation, and excessively greasy skin
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With 22,475 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.

2. Best For Acne-Prone Skin: Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser

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4.6

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.

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive

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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

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Cons
  • Strong fragrance
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The extensive 2,626 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.

3. Best For Dry Skin: Alpha Skin Care Renewal Body Lotion

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4.4

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.

Product Dimensions: 2.13 x 2.13 x 7.75 inches | Weight: 11.99 Ounces

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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

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Cons
  • Sticky formula
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has garnered over 2,046 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
Best Overall
Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
Best For Acne-Prone Skin
Alpha Skin Care Renewal Body Lotion
Best For Dry Skin
Skin Type Acne Prone Acne Prone,Oily,Sensitive-
Dimensions 1.97 x 1.97 x 3.94 inches- 2.13 x 2.13 x 7.75 inches
Weight 1.06 Ounces- 11.99 Ounces
Rating
Reviews22,4752,6262,046
Price$8.0$24.9$16.99

4. Best For All Skin Types: Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser

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.

Skin Type: Acne Prone,Oily,Dry,Sensitive,All Skin Types

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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

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Cons
  • Too abrasive
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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 2,241 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.

5. Best For Sensitive Skin: First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub

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4.4
First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub Exfoliant for Keratosis Pilaris 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.

Skin Type: Sensitive

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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

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Cons
  • Expensive

protip_icon Pro Tip
It is crucial to use your usual sunscreen before you start using an AHA. Sunscreen is extremely essential when using an AHA product, as AHAs enhance your risk of sunburn by making your skin more sensitive to the sun.

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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has received 23,334 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.

6. Best For Dull Skin: Olay Masks Vitamin C + AHA Resurfacing Peel Kit

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.

Skin Type: Oily, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2.48 x 4.13 x 3.86 inches | Weight: 4.97 Ounces.

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Pros
  • Rejuvenates dull skin
  • Removes dead skin cells
  • Improves skin texture
  • Brightens and smoothens the skin
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable

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Cons

None

7. Best Skin-Soothing Formula: Touch 20% Glycolic Acid Pads

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.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2.75 x 2.75 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 4.97 Ounces

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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

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Cons
  • Sticky formula

Our Tester's Experience

"These glycolic acid pads feel soft on my skin but are very effective in deep cleansing my pores. They wipe the dead skin cells off my skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines. They also soothe my irritated skin and make it appear bouncy and plump. They are devoid of any strong chemical scent."


8. Best For Skin Brightning: InstaNatural 7% Glycolic AHA Toner

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4.3

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.

Skin Type: All, Combination, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 5.9 x 3 x 1.9 inches | Weight: 1.59 Ounces.

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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

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Cons

None

9. Best Budget-Friendly: Elizavecca Hell Pore Clean Up AHA Fruit Toner

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Elizavecca 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.

Skin Type: Dry

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Pros
  • Unclogs pores
  • Exfoliates the skin
  • Reduces wrinkles
  • Brightens the skin
  • Pleasant fragrance
  • Affordable

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Cons
  • May dry out the skin

10. Best For Glow: Aveeno Positively Radiant MaxGlow Peel Off Mask

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.

Skin Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 2 x 3 x 4 inches | Weight: 1.6 Ounces

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Pros
  • Exfoliates the skin
  • Brightens the skin
  • Soothes the skin
  • Evens out the skin tone and texture
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Paraben-free
  • Phthalate-free

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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!

Things To Consider Before Buying AHA Products (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

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.

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Hillary Clark
Hillary ClarkMedical Esthetician
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 provided ample opportunities for her to collaborate with some of the most popular names in the beauty industry, such as Dr.

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Oyendrila Kanjilal
Oyendrila KanjilalCommerce Writer
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, she writes about everything that the modern woman needs to know about grooming and self-care.

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Shiboli Chakraborti
Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor
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 editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

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Eshna Das
Eshna DasAssociate Editor
Eshna is an associate editor and a certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple main bachelor’s degree in psychology, English, and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.

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