11 Best Alpha Hydroxy Acid Lotions – According To An Esthetician (2024)
Hydrate your skin with effective skin care products that offer a youthful glow.
Vanessa HuertaLicensed Esthetician
Vanessa is a Licensed Esthetician with 4 years of experience, certified Usui Reiki Level Two Healer practitioner, and certified by Yakov Gershkovich in Level Two Facial Buccal sculpting. She is also the co-founder of The Switch Suites - a l... more
kirtana divakarMA (Journalism & Mass Communication)
Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after read... more
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli 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,... more
swathi eMA (English Literature)
Experience: 3 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She... more
Image: Shutterstock
There’s nothing better you can do for your skin than by adding the best alpha hydroxy acid lotion to your skincare routine. AHAs or alpha hydroxy acids are chemical compounds that promote exfoliation while fighting skincare problems like hyperpigmentation, scars, and enlarged or clogged pores. They also add hydration to the skin and reduce fine lines, age spots, and surface wrinkles. Trusted by skincare experts all over, you too must try it to believe its benefits. for dry and rough skin. Scroll through our list below and find the perfect one for your skin!
In This Article
What do alpha hydroxy acids do?
The benefits of alpha hydroxy acid lotions are countless! Like little soldiers, they gently exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog and minimize the pore size, followed by moisturizing and soothing the skin. They also aid in cell renewal, increase collagen production, and fight hyperpigmentation, making them great for reducing aging signs. And to top it all, they are safe and suitable for sensitive skin too!
So, if you are dealing with dry, dull, damaged, or problematic skin, you should give the best alpha hydroxy acids lotion a try! Here we have rounded up the 11 best alpha hydroxy lotions of 2024 for you.
Exfoliate And Glow With 11 Best Alpha Hydroxy Acid Lotions Of 2024
1. Best All-Day Hydration: Alba Botanica Very Emollient Body Lotion
With this botanical booster, erase the white lines, eliminate dead cells, and curb the dryness! A clinically tested and intense moisture solution, it contains aloe vera, chamomile, shea butter, and green tea to nourish your skin from the core. More like a blend of healthy juices and oils, your skin can also enjoy the benefits of avocado oil, jojoba oil, grape seed oil, cucumber fruit, and lavender extract with every use. Intensely hydrating, improves skin texture and pH balance. This alpha hydroxy acid body lotion helps in alleviating dryness and itchiness instantly. It is also free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates, artificial colors, and artificial fragrances.
Pros
- Unscented
- Non-greasy
- Hypoallergenic
- All-day hydration
- Clinically-proven
- Cruelty-free
- Works best for sensitive, normal, dry, severely dry skin
Cons
- Slightly thick consistency
- May not absorb instantly
Caution
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 13,802 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
2. Best For All Skin Types: Alpha Skin Care Renewal Body Lotion
Did you know dryness and environmental stressors can quicken aging lines? But not if you have this AHA blend in your routine. This body lotion is infused with 12% glycolic alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), which is a chemical exfoliant that combats early aging lines. Derived from natural sugar (sugarcane), it gently exfoliates dead skin cells, stimulates collagen production, combats dryness, and improves uneven skin tone and sunburns to restore your youthful glow. Soft, smooth, and radiant skin, anyone?
Pros
- Toned skin
- Cruelty-free
- Clinically-tested
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle with a pH level of 4
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Oily skin may turn slightly greasy
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 2,046 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
3. Best Hypoallergenic: Obagi Medical Intensive Daily Repair Exfoliating And Hydrating Lotion
The Obagi Medical Intensive Daily Repair Exfoliating and Hydrating Lotion contains vital peptides and comes with antioxidant protection to make your skin ageless, acne-free and helps with skin brightening. This daily moisturizer comes with a non-irritating and non-sensitizing solution that reduces the appearance of pores and visible symptoms of aging by peeling away dead skin cells with the assistance of active PHAs, gluconolactone, and lactobionic acid. This skin smoothing lotion is dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, and suitable for all skin types.
Pros
- Hydrating formula
- Hypoallergenic
- Softens skin
- Non-greasy formula
- Unscented
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- None
| Alba Botanica Very Emollient Body Lotion Best All-Day Hydration | Alpha Skin Care Renewal Body Lotion Best For All Skin Types | Obagi Medical Intensive Daily Repair Exfoliating And Hydrating Lotion Best Hypoallergenic | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 6 x 5 x 4 inches | 2.13 x 2.13 x 7.75 inches | - |
| Weight | 2 Pounds | 11.99 Ounces | - |
| Number of Items | - | - | 1 |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 13,802 | 2,046 | - |
| Price | $14.99 | $16.99 | $77 |
4. Best Allergy-Tested: Neutrogena Healthy Skin Face Lotion – SPF 15
Image: Neutrogena The countless benefits of this face lotion need your attention if you are dealing with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, fine lines, and early signs of aging. Powered with broad-spectrum SPF 15 for sun protection, the cream also has pro-vitamin B-5, vitamin C, E, and alpha hydroxy acid to tone, nourish and soften the skin. It is clinically-proven to soften the skin and make it clearer. Also, a fantastic choice for damaged and dull skin, this quick-absorbing and dermatologist-recommended moisturizing lotion will restore glowing skin and prevent early signs of skin aging. Learn more about the Neutrogena Healthy Skin Face Lotion – SPF 15 in this video.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Non-greasy
- Alcohol-free
- Allergy-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Contains parabens
- Slightly greasy
Pro Tip5. Best UV Protection: Derma E Overnight Peel
While you sleep, this gentle exfoliator will work hard to retexturize and tone your skin overnight while safeguarding it from radical damage. Wake up to naturally glowing skin with this rejuvenating and plant-derived blend. It exfoliates dark spots, dead skin cells, age spots, and blemishes with 5% alpha hydroxy acid and lactic acid. If your skin is damaged or fighting dryness, the infused jojoba seed oil, green tea, and vitamin C will work toward renewing, restoring, and nourishing your skin to its optimal health. Just what you need to peel away the dullness and bring back your natural radiance and help with skin rejuvenation. This blend also helps protect the skin from sun exposure and is free from parabens, mineral oil, gluten, sulfates, GMOs, and more. Take a look at this video for a reviewer’s experience with the dermatologist-recommended Derma E Overnight Peel.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- No redness
- Skin-brightening
- Non-abrasive blend
- UV damage protection
Cons
- May sting slightly on sensitive skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 2,431 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
6. Best Gentle: Touch Keratosis Pilaris Exfoliating Lotion
Fight keratosis pilaris with this exfoliating lotion infused with 12% glycolic acid (AHA) and 2% salicylic acid (BHA). Although keratosis pilaris has no cure, this lotion will penetrate the skin to reduce redness, bumps, and skin discoloration to a great extent! Apply it generously to tone skin and work on skin regeneration and smoothness over time. Besides this, it will also exfoliate pores, prevent acne, and moisturize intensely with aloe vera, vitamin E, and glycine soja oil helps with skin elasticity. And the best part— it’s free from parabens, sulfates, alcohol, dyes, and phthalates.
Pros
- Silky skin
- Non-greasy
- Ultra-hydrating
- Gentle with a pH level of 4
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- The scent may be overpowering for some.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 697 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
7. Best Fragrance-Free: AmLactin Rapid Relief Restoring Lotion
For skin as dry as a desert, this alpha hydroxy acid body lotion will provide 24-hour relief and skin firmness. With naturally-derived 15% lactic acid (AHA) and 3 ceramides, this skin-hydrating blend will boost and lock in moisture while also exfoliating gently and improving optimal health and radiance of the skin. It is clinically proven to relieve dryness and makes for a fantastic choice for ashy, severely dry, and flaky skin. This dermatologist-recommended ammonium lactate blend will also tone the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The brand claims that users may notice visible results, such as relief from skin dryness and soft, silky, and youthful skin, with consistent usage.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Softens skin
- Guarantees instant results
Cons
- Slightly sticky
8. Best Dermatologist-Recommended: DRMTLGY Exfoliating Body Lotion
Are you using multiple skincare products to fight severe dryness or keratosis pilaris? You can now do it with one! With the power to exfoliate, moisturize, and fight aging signs, this body lotion by DRMTLGY ensures 24-hour hydration. Infused with 12% lactic acid, it exfoliates dead skin cells, removes debris, and moisturizes intensely to repair flaky, inflamed, and bumpy skin. It also contains nopal cactus, soybean oil, apple fruit extract, sunflower seed oil, vitamin E, and other peptides to pamper and hydrate skin. And that’s not all; it reduces aging signs and is free from toxins such as parabens, sulfates, gluten, hormones, formaldehyde, and more.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Softens skin
- Rehydrates dry patches
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
9. Best All-Natural: Nonie AHA All-Natural Body Lotion
The Nonie AHA All-Natural Body Lotion provides your skin with gentle exfoliation and cleanses your pores to keep your skin hydrated and smooth. This body lotion is formulated with alpha hydroxy acids, various plant-based oils, and vitamins A, B, C, and E that visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles, fight sun damage, and give your skin a glowing look. The lotion absorbs deep into your skin to improve collagen and elastin fibers and helps you to achieve healthy skin. With a refreshing citrus smell, this high-quality body lotion is definitely a treat for your skin.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- 100% natural
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Perfume-free
- Does not contain mineral oil
Cons
- Can feel sticky on the skin
10. Best Fast-Absorbing: Perfect Image Gly + Sal Exfoliating Body Lotion
If you don’t mind loosening the purse strings a little, this premium product has an all-natural AHA-BHA therapy for your skin! The infused glycolic acid and salicylic acid exfoliate dead skin cells, stimulate collagen, increase cell turnover, and unclogs pores to encourage toned and younger-looking skin. It also works as active acne treatment and can help reduce them and make your skin look flawless. It contains skin-loving ingredients such as cucumber extract for tightening and reducing inflammation and tea tree oil to prevent breakouts. This effective formula also heals, repairs, and soothes with chamomile, green tea, and comfrey extracts. In addition, it nourishes and pampers skin intensely with licorice, pumpkin, papaya, pineapple, and bearberry. The body lotion leaves you with a glowy skin and is also free from toxic ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, SLS, phthalates, and gluten.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Ultra-light
- Fast-absorbing
- Anti-aging formula
- Maximum hydration
- Suitable for face and body
- Gentle with pH level 3.1-3.5
Cons
- Slightly expensive
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 360 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
11. Best Non-Irritating: Derma Therapy Alpha Hydroxy Lotion
Drench your skin in the ultra-moisturizing blend of Derma Therapy. With 10% urea, this skin-repairing lotion aids skin cells in absorbing and retaining moisture to fight the dryness from within. And as for your youthful glow, the infused 10% alpha hydroxy acid exfoliates dead skin cells to reveal new, more elastic, and younger-looking skin. The therapeutic, high-strength formula also contains silk proteins to boost your skin’s softness, silkiness, and glow. Give it a try if you have rough, dry, or problematic skin.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Non-irritating
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Expensive
12. Best Non-Greasy: Archipelago Botanicals Coconut Lotion
How about something exotic and zesty to fight dryness and restore your glow? Infused with coconut and jojoba esters, the lotion will hydrate, soothe, and pamper your skin intensely. It also contains shea butter, aloe vera, vitamin E, oat protein, green tea, Kakadu plum, grape seed extract, and sunflower seed oil for moisturizing benefits. And as for redness and dryness, leave it to alpha hydroxy acid to heal and repair! Leaving your skin smooth, soft, and smelling fresh with the infused lemon verbena, coconut water, and citrus, the lotion is free from toxic and harmful chemicals such as parabens, gluten, phthalates, and artificial colors.
Pros
- Vegan
- Non-GMO
- Cruelty-free
- Non-greasy
- Suitable for daily use
Cons
- Slightly expensive
- Not suitable if you are sensitive to smell
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 2,965 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
So long, dead skin cells! Restore your natural and beautiful radiance with one of the 11 best alpha hydroxy acid lotions for you. Still, wondering how to pick the best face or body lotion with alpha hydroxy acids? We have some tips for you in our buying guide below.
How to Choose the Best Alpha Hydroxy Acid Lotion?
Look out for the following features in the alpha hydroxy acid peels before buying:
Identify types of AHAs:
There are different kinds of AHAs, such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, and more. You must choose a lotion depending on the type of exfoliation you need. Glycolic acid is the strongest of all and is ideal for intense exfoliation but can hamper skin sensitivity and make it more irritated. Lactic acid is slightly gentler than glycolic acid as it is derived from milk. It is suitable for sensitive skin and all other skin types.
Soothing ingredients:
Besides looking for AHAs, check the moisturizing ingredients infused in the blend for nourishing the skin after exfoliation. If you have oily skin, pick the one with water or gel based ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut water, cucumber, etc. However, if you have severely dry skin, oil-based moisturizing cream and lotions will suffice.
Stay power:
Unless you enjoy re-applying lotion, pick an alpha hydroxy acid lotion that is long-lasting and ensures all-day hydration. For example, AmLactin Rapid Relief Restoring Lotion and DRMTLGY Exfoliating Body Lotion both guarantee 24-hour relief.
Ingredients to avoid:
Choose all-natural, organic, and vegan products over toxic chemicals for maximum benefits. Avoid products with harmful ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, phthalates, silicones, mineral oil, formaldehyde, lanolin, dye, nickel, and more. Always conduct a patch test before using the product to prevent any adverse reactions.
Infographic: Tips For Using AHA Lotions Safely
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are popular ingredients that can help improve the appearance of your skin by exfoliating dead skin cells and stimulating collagen production. However, AHA lotions can be counterproductive if not used properly. In the infographic below, we have listed a few tips for using AHA lotions safely. Check it out and achieve healthy and glowing skin without experiencing any irritation.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
With that, we bet you’ll end up with the best alpha hydroxy acid lotion of 2024! AHA lotions and peels can make your skin appear healthier, younger-looking, and clearer than before. Unlike other grainy exfoliators, these lotions with alpha hydroxy acid are exfoliating, moisturizing, and fight other skin conditions, all in one go. The Alba Botanica Very Emollient Body Lotion offers all-day hydration with its non-greasy, hypoallergenic formula, while the Alpha Skin Care Renewal Body Lotion boosts collagen production and improves your overall skin texture. But for those seeking a multipurpose lotion for dull and sensitive skin, try the Neutrogena Healthy Skin Face Lotion with SPF 15. Vanessa Huerta, Licensed Esthetician and Co-Founder of The Switch Suites explains, “There are certain AHAs that specifically target skin pigmentation more than others like lactic acid, mandelic acid, and azelaic acid. Incorporate those AHAs if pigmentation is your main concern.” More like a one-stop savior for all your skin woes and to restore your natural radiance, these lotions will make you fall in love with your skin all over again. Now, what are you waiting for? With the 11 best alpha hydroxy acid lotions for all skin types on our list, add one to your skincare routine today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is alpha hydroxy acid good for your skin?
Absolutely! AHA lotions are gentle exfoliators that eliminate dead skin cells, moisturize intensely and also fight skin conditions like eczema and dry skin. And since they are mild, they are suitable for sensitive skin too.
Does alpha hydroxy acid lighten skin?
Yes, to an extent. Since AHA lotions are exfoliators, they’ll gently eliminate dead skin cells and encourage the emergence of newer, clear, and healthy-looking skin. It will not only lighten dark spots but also sun spots, age spots, and hyperpigmentation.
How often should you use alpha hydroxy acid?
Once in 7-10 days, but this may vary from one person to another. If your skin can take the lotion well, you can increase the application in a week. However, to be safe, you must consult your dermatologist, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Is alpha hydroxy acid good for sensitive skin?
Absolutely! AHA lotions with lactic acid are safe for sensitive skin. Lactic acid is derived from milk and is gentler than glycolic acid, thus a safe option for sensitive skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Our writer Kirtana Divakar is a skincare and make-up enthusiast. She brings you this list of the best alpha hydroxy lotions to help you take care of your skin better. Alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs are a blessing for skin types that are prone to hyperpigmentation or acne. This list of products is prepared after careful research and consideration of the product’s constituents, benefits, and efficiency.
