11 Best Lactic Acid Serums For Even-Toned, Bright, & Clear Skin
Boost collagen and elasticity with the right skincare essentials to get glass-like skin.
Yolanda MooreMPAS, PA-C
Expertise: Medical Esthetics & Ethnic Skin Care
Experience: 16 years
Yolanda, MPAS, PA-C, has a medical license from the state of California and certification from the National Commission on Certification of PAs. She is a member of the California Academy of PAs, American Academy of PAs, and the American Med ... more
Expertise: Skin & Hair Care
Experience: 3 years
Kirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and has 3 years of experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the... more
Image: Shutterstock
What if someone tells you that you can apply spoiled milk to your skin to eliminate blemishes and fine lines? Would you believe them? Maybe not. But, if you want smooth, firm, and soft skin, you should use the best lactic acid serums. The beauty secret of milk dates back to Egyptian times when Cleopatra bathed in milk. Lactic acid, which is usually found in curd, milk, and wine, effectively helps enhance the texture of your skin by renewing dead skin cells, boosting collagen production, elasticity, and treating hyperpigmentation.
Nowadays, lactic acid is being used as a magical skin care ingredient that penetrates deep into your skin and helps you maintain flawless-looking skin. So, if you want to get rid of dead skin cells and get crystal clear glass skin, this article is for you. We have rounded up the 11 best lactic acid serums that will help improve your skin tone, texture, and overall skin health. So, keep scrolling to look at our top picks!
In This Article
Enhance Your Glow With The 11 Best Lactic Acid Serums Of 2023
1. Best Vegan:Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment
If you feel your skin could do with some pampering without the harmful chemicals, give this lactic acid facial serum from Good Genes a try. Enriched with natural and nourishing ingredients like purified lactic acid, lemongrass, prickly pear, and aloe vera, it clears dead skin cells, unclogs pores of impurities, rids the skin of excess oil, and refreshes skin for an even-toned complexion. It also contains licorice and arnica flower extract to soothe and brighten the skin. Clinically proven for clear, brighter skin, it boosts radiance in less than 3 minutes.
Pros
- Soy-free
- Gluten-free
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Suitable for all skin types
- Free of sulfates, parabens, and phthalates
Cons
- In rare circumstances, it may cause redness and irritation
Pro Tip2. Best Anti-Aging:QrxLabs Nature Enhanced Glycolic Acid/AHA Renewal Serum
Here’s a glycolic and lactic acid serum with a lightweight texture and a natural fragrance that effectively combats skin aging. Sourced from sugar cane, bilberry, sugar maple, and citrus fruit extracts, it minimizes age lines, improves elasticity, exfoliates the skin, encourages healing, and reduces inflammation. The citric acid in this formula clears clogged pores, while the malic and tartaric acids enhance the skin’s natural glow for younger-looking, brighter skin. Bid your skincare woes farewell, once and for all!
Pros
- Silicone-free
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Improves skin tone and texture
- Free of artificial dyes and coloring agents
Cons
- It may take longer than expected to show results.
3. Best Hydrating Formula:Measurable Difference Lactic Acid Serum
We’re all too familiar with the skin damage caused by the harsh rays of the sun, including pigmentation, dark spots, and sagging skin. Reverse the sun damage, achieve even skin tone, and embrace clear skin with this lactic acid hydrating serum. It is formulated with the goodness of hydrolyzed collagen, hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid, which washes away dirt, grime, and pollution while evening out the skin tone. It also locks in moisture and hydrates the skin, leaving it plump and supple.
Pros
- Hydrating formula
- Natural ingredients
- Free of harmful chemicals
- Fights skin damage caused by the sun
Cons
- May not be best suited for sensitive skin
4. Best Nourishing:[re]fresh Skin Therapy Lactic Acid Gel Facial Peel
Are heavy creams and serums weighing your skin down? Give your skin the breather it needs and nourish it with this gentle lactic acid serum that not only fights premature skin aging but also increases collagen production for brighter and more beautiful skin. The formula is suitable for the body, face, and lips. It peels away dry and rough skin, diminishes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, fades age spots to reveal clearer, softer, and smoother skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Glutten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Anti-aging fomula
- Increases collagen production
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- Might take time to show results
5. Best For Beginners:Minimalist 10% AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum For Beginners
If you are an absolute beginner at chemical exfoliation, here’s where you can start. The Minimalist 10% AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum For Beginners works on all skin types. The non-greasy formula with a blend of AHAs and BHAs targets acne scars, uneven skin texture and tone, dullness, and sun tan. Lactic acid gently exfoliates to brighten the skin. Salicylic acid unclogs pores and removes excess oil, blackheads, and whiteheads, while hyaluronic acid hydrates the skin and prevents tightness. This non-comedogenic serum is a perfect multi-level exfoliator and reveals soft, glowing, and healthy skin.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Gentle formula
- Non-irritating
- Prevents redness
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Silicone-free
- Dye-free
- Essential oil-free
- Sulfate-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
None
6. Best pH balanced Formula:Ren Clean Skincare AHA Smart Renewal Body Serum
Show your body some love! Often neglected, the skin on our body is also subjected to skin damage. Left untreated, it may cause long-lasting, irreversible harm to your skin, leading to rough, dry, and dehydrated skin. Using a natural lactic acid serum like this one can go a long way in nourishing your skin, exfoliating dead skin cells, and hydrating it for skin that looks and feels soft and healthy. It is formulated with ingredients like shea butter, grapefruit peel oil, mandarin peel oil, and citric acid to fortify the skin’s moisture barrier and replenish it with lost moisture. Add this serum to your skincare routine for skin that won’t disappoint.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Natural ingredients
- Suitable for dry skin
- pH balanced formula
- Free of harmful chemicals
Cons
- Contains ingredients that may cause skin sensitivity, so it must always be paired with a suitable sunscreen.
Pro Tip7. Best Antioxidant-Rich Formula:Paula’s Choice Advanced Smoothing Treatment
Gone are the days stressing over unclear, texture skin. Made from 4 potent alpha hydroxy acids, this lactic acid serum for skin enhancement is the best thing you can give to yourself. Lactic acid exfoliates the skin, while malic and glycolic acids smooth wrinkles and fine lines and combat sun damage. This antioxidant-rich formula is filled with peptides and ceramides for an even-toned and textured skin that is bright and flawless. It also contains natural ingredients like licorice and green tea that calm irritated skin and promote skin healing. Continuous use of this serum will give the poreless, smooth skin you’ve always wanted. Look at this video for a clear understanding of the Paula’s Choice Advanced Smoothing Treatment.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight texture
- Antioxidant-rich formula
Cons
- Contains added preservatives
Remember8. Best Restoring Formula:Azani Active Care Lactic Acid Resurfacing Serum
Restore your skin’s original glow with the Azani Active Care Lactic Acid Resurfacing Serum. The gentle formula is enriched with milk-derived lactic acid that reduces pigmentation and combats signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines. Antioxidant-rich squalene moisturizes, softens, and smoothens the skin, while the hyaluronic acid hydrates and reduces dullness. The anti-inflammatory chamomile flower extracts soothe the skin and the gentle exfoliation process revives your glow. This serum also targets enlarged pores, acne, and blemishes to offer radiant skin right from the first use.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Prevents skin tears
- Oil-free
- Reduces dark spots
Cons
None
9. Best Non-toxic Formula:Biossance Squalane + Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum
Let this vegan lactic acid serum work its magic at night while you blissfully enjoy your beauty sleep. With a high concentration of lactic acid and other natural ingredients like squalane and lavender, this potent concoction supports skin cell turnover. It also minimizes the effects of pollution, dirt, and other environmental stressors. The lavender extracts promote tranquility to ensure that you sleep well while this effective serum exfoliates the skin, removes dead skin cells, and offers a luminous glow. Go through this video for a detailed review of the Biossance Squalane + Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum.
Pros
- Vegan
- Non-toxic formula
- Weightless texture
- Eco-friendly packaging
- Free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, and mineral oils
Cons
- May initially cause a tingling sensation
10. Best Non-Comedogenic:Divulge Beauty Daily Exfoliating Lactic Acid Serum
An effective lactic acid face serum may be hard to find, but lucky for you, we’ve done all the hard work! We bring you this exfoliating product for an even-toned, radiant complexion. It contains glycerine, lactic acid, and citric acid to diminish scars, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage. Clearing the pores of dirt, excess oil, and grime, it fights acne, removes dead skin cells, and reduces blemishes to reveal spotless, brighter, and smoother skin. If this lactic acid serum for acne isn’t a product worth grabbing, we don’t know what is!
Pros
- Oil-free
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- Some may find the texture to be a bit watered-down.
11. Best For Mild Exfoliation:Cos De BAHA Lctic Acid 12.5 Serum
Is your sensitive skin keeping you away from chemical exfoliation? Well, the Cos De BAHA Lactic Acid 12.5% Serum offers mild exfoliation suitable for beginners and people with sensitive skin types. Lactic acid brightens, even tones, and smoothes the skin for a radiant glow. It also promotes collagen production and reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. This serum also contains aloe vera, arginine, and Camellia Sinensis leaf extract to soothe and moisturize the skin. Well, if this still does not convince you, like with every product you use, begin with a small patch test for safety purposes.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Gentle formula
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Alcohol-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Dimethicone-free
- No artificial color
Cons
None
Adding acids in your skin care routine sounds quite intimidating. But, beginning with a lesser concentration and building up eventually is generally a safe way to get used to active ingredients. However, lactic acid is one AHA ingredient that brightens, exfoliates, and hydrates skin like no other. Before you begin, here are a few factors to consider while buying the best lactic acid serums for even-toned, bright, and clear skin.
Things To Consider While Buying The Best Lactic Acid Serums
- Skin Types And Supportive Ingredients
Lactic acid works wonders on your skin, but when the serum is blended with other supportive potent and beneficial ingredients, it can give you flawless skin. For those with dry and sensitive skin, along with lactic acid, look for ingredients like glycerine or hyaluronic acid as they will ensure your skin is thoroughly moisturized and supple.
Those with mature skin can also opt for lactic acid serum with a formulation that contains retinol. They work together to brighten dull skin, clear up blemishes, hydrate, and smoothen out fine lines and wrinkles. In case you have oily or acne prone skin, then niacinamide with lactic acid is a bomb combination to try, as it targets and improves multiple skin concerns like excess oil production, uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, rough and bumpy texture.
- Ingredients To Avoid With Lactic Acids
It is best to avoid using lactic acid serum with other direct acids like salicylic acid or azelaic acid. Also, avoid pairing with other AHAs like glycolic acid, mandelic acid, or other actives like benzoyl peroxide acne treatments. You must also avoid using lactic acid with strong actives like pure vitamin C. As these will have a severe adverse effect on your skin and can lead to rashes or irritation.
- Concentrations
Lactic acid can be highly effective when used at different concentrations. For those with minimum concerns like dryness and uneven skin tone, stick to around 5% to 7% of lactic acid concentrations. While those focusing on improving skin’s firmness and smoothness, fine lines, and wrinkles, a 12% concentration of lactic acid might work great for you.
- Formula
Pick a formula that has the right amount of concentration for you and works best for your skin type. Look for weightless and quick-absorbing serums so that it seeps into the deeper levels of your skin for efficient results. Also, look for non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic lactic acid serums.
Ensure you avoid lactic acid serums that contain harmful chemicals like sulfates, silicones, mineral oils, or petroleum. These will lead to over-drying your skin and will also strip away its natural oils and disturb skin’s pH levels.
Now that you know of the 11 best lactic acid serums, it’s time you look at our buying that will help you choose the best one for your unique skin requirements.
Tips And Tricks Of Choosing The Best Lactic Acid Serum For Your Skin
- Skin type
The benefits of lactic acid serums are endless. Though lactic acid is suitable for all skin types, many serums contain additional ingredients that make it unique for your skin. For normal to combination skin, pick ones with nourishing elements like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and peptides. They soothe the skin and promote healing while providing hydration. For dry skin, choose thick formulations with hydrating ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, and ceramides to replenish lost moisture and leave the skin feeling plump and soft. For oily skin, it is advisable to stay away from moisture-adding ingredients like butters and hydrating creams. Instead, choose ingredients like tea tree oil, niacinamide, glycolic acid, retinol, and salicylic acid. They control excess sebum while promoting healthy skin. For sensitive skin, choose ingredients that are non-toxic and fragrance-free so that they do not cause any irritations.
- Formula
The formula is crucial when picking a serum that works best for your skin. Always select weightless and quick-absorbing formulas as they penetrate deeper into the skin and show more immediate results. Also, pick non-comedogenic, gentle formulations that cleanse and exfoliate the skin effectively without clogging your pores.
- Harmful chemicals
Last but not least, always steer away from harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, silicones, mineral oils, and petroleum as they may lead to over-drying of the face and do more harm than good. They also alter the skin’s natural pH level and strip it away from its natural oils. Hence, choose products free of toxic ingredients to ensure skin is left feeling clean and clear.
- How To Use A Lactic Acid Serum
Step 1 – Cleanse your face thoroughly and add a few drops of your favorite lactic acid serum onto your palms.
Step 2 – Gently rub the palms to activate the serum and press lightly onto the skin.
Step 3 – Lightly tap the serum all over the face and press it in, allowing the serum to absorb into the skin.
Step 4 – Follow with a suitable sunscreen if being used during the daytime.
Say goodbye to your skin concerns with the best lactic acid serums listed in our article. These serums help improve the overall texture of your skin by boosting collagen production and elasticity, treating hyperpigmentation, and renewing dead skin cells. Also, they are cruelty-free, vegan, and free of any harsh chemicals. However, consider your skin type and product formula before buying these serums and avoid the products with an overpowering fragrance.
These lactic acid serums help you achieve even-toned, bright, and crystal clear skin. Simply add a few drops onto your skin before you sleep and see its magic work overnight. You can also use it during the daytime, followed by sunscreen.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Kirtana Divakar, is always on top of the latest skin care developments, which is why she swears by lactic acid serums. She has compiled the above list of best lactic acid serums for skin following hours of research. These products are endorsed by users through their reviews, offer robust protection against damage and help you get softer and glowing skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I use lactic acid on my face?
This depends on the concentration of lactic acid in the serum. If it is high, it is advisable to start using lactic acid 1 or 2 times a week. Lower concentration can be used daily.
Is a concentration of 5 or 10% of lactic acid better?
If you are not a regular user of lactic acid and are sensitive to potent ingredients, we suggest you start with 5%. But if you’re not a novice and have been using lactic acid serums for a while, you can go up to 10.
Should I moisturize after using a lactic acid serum?
Yes. Using a moisturizer after applying a lactic acid serum could be beneficial as it adds hydration and moisture to the skin. If you have particularly oily skin, you can skip this step.
Can I use Ordinary lactic acid every day?
Yes, you can. But if you’re just starting, we recommend using it every 2-3 days.
How quickly does lactic acid work on the skin?
It can take between 4-6 weeks to see visible results.
Are there any potential side effects of using lactic acid serums?
Lactic acid is essentially a harmless skincare ingredient. However, it is always advisable to speak to your dermatologist before adding a new skincare ingredient into your routine.
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