12 Best Expert-Approved Lactic Acid Products (2024): Benefits & Buying Guide
Achieve firm and smooth skin with minimal appearance of stubborn aging signs.
Georgia SmithCosmetologist 
Georgia Smith is a cosmetologist-turned-cosmetic chemist and has been in the industry for over 13 years as a beauty therapist. She is the founder of Skin Sister and owns a hugely successful, skin focused beauty salon in Sydney, Australia. G... more
oyendrila kanjilalMA, Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 2 yearsOyendrila 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 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
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If you’re looking for a one-stop solution for your skin woes, the best lactic acid skincare products are a must-have! The mild alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) gently exfoliates dead skin cells while reducing fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and dark spots. With the incorporation of lactic acid in your daily skincare routine, you can get firmer, softer, and smoother skin. If you are new to the world of skincare using lactic acid, then start here. Listed below are a few products with lactic acid. So, take your pick from the range of moisturizers, exfoliants, and everything else you need for glowing skin! It’s time to give your skin some lovin’!
In This Article
12 Best Lactic Acid Products For Flawless Skin
1. Best Lightweight Formula:Mario Badescu Buttermilk Moisturizer
Have combination skin and are looking for a good moisturizer? Try the Mario Badescu Buttermilk Moisturizer. It contains the goodness of lactic acid that helps fade dark spots, acne scars, and blemishes.
This lightweight, breathable moisturizer contains allantoin and chamomile that soothes and calms irritated skin. It has an instant hydrating effect, gets absorbed into the skin quickly, makes it soft and smooth, and reduces pore size. Use a pea-sized amount to keep the skin hydrated and reveal beautiful and glowing skin. This tried-and-tested product is suitable for combination and dry skin types to repair moisture barrier damage.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Corrects uneven skin tone
- Improves texture
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Contains parabens
"This moisturizer is very useful on my dry skin. It is extremely lightweight and yet works effectively. My skin irritation has reduced after using this product. It also hydrates the skin and the product gets absorbed quickly."
Did You Know?Lactic acid is most commonly found in milk and is used both as a fermenter and a preservative. Lesser known sources of lactic acid include beer, kefir, kimchi, miso, olives, and sourdough bread.
2. Best For Hyperpigmentation:REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic
The REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic is a dual-action exfoliator formulated with fruit acids that help remove dead cells and cleanses the pores. The natural lactic acid (AHA) in this toner helps slough off the upper dead skin layer to promote skin cell turnover and smoothes the uneven skin texture. Salicin (BHA) from willow bark extract dissolves pore buildup and unclogs and refines the pores to brighten and re-energize the skin. Azelaic acid from grains helps improve skin radiance, reduces hyperpigmentation, and evens the skin tone.
If you have a sensitive skin type, use it once a week to prevent irritating your skin. To use the toner, dab it on a clean cotton pad and swipe it across the face and neck in an upward motion to reveal radiant skin. Click on the video to find an honest review of the REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic.
Pros
- Prevents breakouts
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Recyclable packaging
Cons
- Expensive
Quick TipLactic acid may increase the skin’s sensitivity, leaving it vulnerable to sun exposure. Use a broad-spectrum physical sunscreen and avoid sun damage.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 2,834 rave reviews on Amazon.
3. Best Paraben-Free Formula:Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment
If you are struggling with a host of skin problems like dull skin, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and enlarged pores, you will be surprised how well Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment works. This multi-tasking lactic acid serum rapidly exfoliates the skin and reveals naturally youthful radiance. It visibly reduces fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots, and dark spots.
The high potency, pure-grade lactic acid exfoliates dull and dead skin cells while removing dirt and gunk from clogged pores to clarify the complexion and reveal smooth and clear skin instantly. The skin-brightening licorice reduces discoloration and hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure for a brighter, even-toned skin. Apply it after toning to leave your skin feeling hydrated, firm, and plump. Take a look at the honest review of the Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment to better understand the product.
Pros
- Clinically-proven
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Recyclable packaging
Cons
- Expensive
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 352 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.
Mario Badescu Buttermilk Moisturizer Best Lightweight Formula | REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic Best For Hyperpigmentation | Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment Best Paraben-Free Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 1.2 x 1.2 x 3.6 inches | - | - |
| Weight | 0.07 Ounces | 8.82 Ounces | 1 Ounces |
| Skin Type | - | Normal | All, Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal |
| Dimensions | - | 3 x 5 x 5 inches | 1.5 x 1.5 x 4.5 inches |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,442 | 2,834 | 352 |
| Price | $18.0 | $39.0 | $85 |
4. Best For Pore Minimization:theraderm Fruit Acid Exfoliant
If you have an extremely dull skin that needs immediate and regular attention, try the theraderm Fruit Acid Exfoliant. It is a toner with 10% lactic acid that helps exfoliate dead skin cells and reveal smooth and soft skin underneath.
This lactic acid toner minimizes pores, improves the skin’s permeability to other products, prevents premature aging, and reduces the visible signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines. It also brightens the skin, refines its texture, and evens the skin tone, revealing younger-looking and healthy skin. This product has positive reviews on Amazon, confirming why this is one of the top products on our list.
Pros
- Contains unbuffered lactic acid
- Can be used regularly
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Expensive
- Contains alcohol
"This toner has worked well on my dull skin. It exfoliates and smoothens the skin. My wrinkles and fine lines seem to be under control. My skin now looks healthier and younger."
5. Best For Dry Skin:DRMTLGY Exfoliating Body Lotion
Not just face, your whole body needs equal attention. And if you are on the lookout for a good lactic acid lotion for your body, try the DRMTLGY Exfoliating Body Lotion with 12% lactic acid. It is perfect for dry, rough, bumpy, peeling skin, and also works well for keratosis pilaris and folliculitis. The clinically proven formula stimulates cellular regeneration for younger and smoother skin. With a balanced blend of alpha hydroxy acids, this lotion helps with skin renewal, gentle exfoliation, and moisturization for soft feeling all day long.
Pros
- Suitable for dry and flaking skin
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Hormone-free
- Gluten-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Cruelty-free
- Pump dispenser
Cons
- Not fragrance-free
6. Best Skin Texture Improvement:COSMEDIX Define
If you have dry and aging skin, COSMEDIX Define with alpha-hydroxy acids can help brighten and smoothen it. This multi-tasking cream formulated with lactic acid, malic acid, and tartaric acid exfoliates and refines the skin texture. It prevents free radical damage, and the soothing botanical ingredients improve skin tone without dryness. The 2% AGP in the cream visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Use a small amount on a clean face 2-4 times a week at night to get a firm, hydrated, and youthful skin.
Pros
- Improves skin texture
- Hydrating
- Fragrance-free
- No harsh chemicals
Cons
- Expensive
- Contains alcohol
"This product has been useful for my aging and dry skin. It brightens and smoothens my skin. It also soothes my skin and has improved my skin tone. I have noticed visible changes in my skin after using the product for a week."
7. Best For Acne Scars:QRxLabs Lactic Acid 50% Gel Peel
If you have age spots, sunspots, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and fine lines, consider using QRxLabs Lactic Acid 50% Gel Peel. This professional-grade chemical peel contains lactic acid (50%), kojic acid, bearberry extract, and licorice root extract. It acts as an effective spot treatment that fades dark spots, sun spots, age spots, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation.
The peel improves skin texture and reduces wrinkles and fine lines to make it appear even-toned and healthy. This exfoliating gel is as effective as any other expensive spa treatments. The thicker texture prevents it from trickling down. However, remember, this affordable serum has potent exfoliating agents. Always do a patch test before using it on your face.
Pros
- Thick texture
- Artificial color-free
- No fragrance
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Not for sensitive skin
8. Best For Collagen Boost:perfect image Lactic 50% Gel Peel
The perfect image Lactic 50% Gel Peel is enhanced with kojic acid, licorice, and bearberry extracts. This highly concentrated lactic acid peel exfoliates dead skin cells, fades hyperpigmentation, acne marks, and promotes collagen production and elastin synthesis. The kojic acid inhibits melanin production to brighten the skin, while the green tea and cucumber extracts revitalize it and add a youthful glow. Use it once or twice a week, along with following a regular skin care routine, to see a visible improvement.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Phthalate-free
- SLS-free
- GMP certified
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 1,857 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
9. Best For Dead Skin Cells Removal:Mystic Moments Biorigins Lactic Acid
Rough, dry, and scaly skin requires hydration. But first, you must get rid of the upper dry and dead skin layer. The Mystic Moments Biorigins Lactic Acid is the perfect peeling solution for that. This 80% pure lactic acid must be diluted down to 5%-20% to make it milder and non-irritating to the skin. It helps slough off the top dead and flaky skin layer to reveal soft and glowing skin. However, you must use sunscreenif you step out to keep the skin barrier intact, as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) make the skin photosensitive.
Pros
- Vegan
- 100% natural
- Professional-grade face acid
Cons
- May not suit sensitive skin
"This product has been quite effective for me. I have dry skin and this one offers hydration. I have noticed visible changes with smoother facial skin and peeling on my feet."
10. Best For Stubborn Calluses:Beauty Facial Extreme Exfoliating Body Lotion
The Beauty Facial Extreme Exfoliating Body Lotion contains 12% lactic acid. It is formulated with a unique blend of fruit acids and rich emollients that helps smooth rough and dry skin and promotes cellular regeneration. This lotion work wonders for dry and flaky skin on the feet and hands and softens stubborn calluses. It also effectively manages keratosis pilaris and body acne. Check out the video to learn all about the Beauty Facial Extreme Exfoliating Body Lotion along with reviewer’s experience.
Pros
- Clinically proven
- Not tested on animals
- GMP certified
- FDA-approved
- 30 days money-back guarantee
Cons
- None
"This exfoliating lotion has worked well on my dry skin. My skin has improved from its rough and flaky state. The product has also helped me with keratosis pilaris. It is quite moisturizing and has softened my skin."
11. Best For Moisture Balance:Biossance Squalane + Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum
The Biossance Squalane + Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum is perfect for your nighttime skin care routine to improve the natural moisture barrier. This 10% vegan lactic acid serum is formulated with lavender, clover, and squalane. It gently exfoliates dull and dead skin, accelerates skin cell turnover, locks moisture, calms irritated skin, and minimizes the damaging effects of dust, pollution, and overexposure to blue light. This serum works overnight, which is supported by clinical data, and gives you baby-soft, firm, bright, and glowing skin by the morning.
Pros
- Vegan lactic acid
- Reduces redness
- Brightens the skin
- Adds a youthful glow
- No toxins
- Free of harsh chemicals
- Eco-conscious packaging
Cons
- Expensive
12. Best For Sensitive Skin:Instaderm Anti-Aging Exfoliating Peel Pads
Aging is a natural process. But if you want lock time and throw away the key, Instaderm Anti-Aging Exfoliating Peel Pads can be your calling. These clinically proven, anti-aging chemical peel pads are recommended by top dermatologists and are infused with lactic, salicylic, and glycolic acids to lighten and brighten your complexion.
The medical-grade botanical extracts improve dullness, sagging, age spots, enlarged pores, and rough skin. They smooth fine lines and wrinkles and prevent cellular damage. These peeling pads gently exfoliate and reduce acne scars, regulate sebum production, and eliminate blemishes for healthier and younger-looking skin. You can use them on your face, hands, and neck. They are suitable for sensitive skin, oily, and dry skin.
Pros
- Clinically proven
- Medical-grade botanical
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Expensive
"I have been using these peel pads for a while now and I am impressed. They are quite good at cleaning up my skin and refining my pores. These pads are fairly strong and is a regular part of my skin care routine. My skin feels smoother now."
These are the 12 best lactic acid skin care products you can use to get a beautiful, radiant glow and younger-looking skin. But before you decide which one to go for, here’s a list of benefits of using skin care products with lactic acid. Scroll down.
Benefits Of Using Skin Care Products With Lactic Acid
- It exfoliates dead skin cells and encourages new cell formation. This, in turn, makes the skin healthy and glowing.
- It smoothens and softens the skin.
- It reduces hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and sunspots.
- It improves skin permeability, enhancing the efficacy of other skin care products.
- It clears pores, whiteheads, and blackheads.
- It reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
For sure, you will see visible results in just a few weeks of using lactic acid products. But things can go wrong if you do not choose the right product. How to do that? Take a look at the following checklist.
How To Choose A Good Lactic Acid Skin Care Product
- Choose a tested and expert-recommended lactic acid skin care product with at least 10% lactic acid for visible results.
- Check if the product contains any ingredient that you are allergic to.
- Use a product that has soothing ingredients like aloe vera and lavender.
- Use a gentle exfoliator with lactic acid, glycolic acid, and skin-soothing botanicals.
Should You Avoid Using Lactic Acid Products?
Lactic acid is good for your skin, but in higher concentrations, it can burn sensitive skin. If you have active cystic acne, it is best to wait for a few days before using a lactic acid peel or chemical exfoliant. The best way to go about it is to do a patch test and see if your skin swells or becomes red.
The Bottom Line
If you want softer, smoother, and plumper skin, beauty products with lactic acid will be your right pick! Lactic acid beauty products comprise mild alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates dead skin cells and prevents the further growth of acne scars, dark spots, and wrinkles. The Mario Badescu Buttermilk Moisturizer suits combination and dry skin, providing lightweight and breathable hydration. The Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment combats skin issues and delivers instant smoothness, while the COSMEDIX Define offers a fragrance and chemical-free alternative. Choose products that get absorbed into the skin quickly and eliminate pores, patches, and redness. There are many beauty products with lactic acid which correct uneven skin tone. Steer clear of products that contain parabens or phthalates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of lactic acid is most effective?
Any concentration between 10%-30% is the most effective
Can you use lactic acid if you are allergic to milk?
Yes. You can use a lactic acid peel if you are allergic to milk protein as the issue is related to the digestive system.
Which is stronger – glycolic or lactic acid?
Glycolic acid is the strongest AHA as it has the smallest molecule size.
Is it okay to use lactic acid every day?
No. If used too often, the acid may irritate the skin. It is best to use any face acid, not more than once or twice a week.
Can you use lactic acid and vitamin C together?
No, you should never use lactic acid and vitamin C together. It can destabilize the pH of your skin and make it burn and breakout.
Is lactic acid good for acne?
Lactic acid is good for improving acne. However, if you have active acne, use the lowest concentration (2%-5%) of lactic acid to minimize flare-ups. This will dry the acne and speed up healing.
Are lactic acid skin products safe during pregnancy?
Yes, lactic acid skin care products exfoliate your skin without harming your baby’s health.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Oyendrila Kanjilal, who penned this article, is a certified skin care coach and our resident skin and hair expert. She has a penchant for finding the best products to cater to your skin type and needs. She poured through many reviews and feedback to find the best lactic acid skin care products so you can make your skin bright and firm. She selected this list on the basis of ingredients added, and additional skin care benefit like exfoliation.
