10 bestGlycolic Acidsof June 2025
112M consumers helped this year.
8% off
1
L’Oréal Paris Glycolic Acid Face Serum, Revitalift Triple Power LZR, With 10% Pure Glycolic Acid to Exfoliate and Reduce the Look of Wrinkles, Skincare, 30 Millilitre
L'Oreal Paris
10.0
2
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Triple Power LZR 5% Glycolic Acid Peeling Toner with Aloe Vera, Smooth Skin & Reveal Glow, Daily Exfoliant for Brighter Skin, Fragrance and Alcohol Free, 180 mL
L’Oréal Paris
10.0
3
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Glycolic Acid Face Serum with Niacinamide & Salicylic Acid. Gentle Daily Ultra Concentrated Exfoliating Peeling Serum for Acne-Prone & Mature Skin, 30mL
La Roche-Posay
9.9
4
Murad Rapid Dark Spot Correcting Serum - Environmental Shield Skin Brightening Face Serum - Glycolic Acid Hyperpigmentation Treatment Backed by Science, 30ml
Murad
9.7
5
Thayers 2% AHA Exfoliating Toner with Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid and Witch Hazel, Smoothing and Pore Refining Skin Care for All Skin Types, 355 ML
THAYERS
9.5
OtherUp to 7% off
Tree of Life - Hyaluronic Acid Serum - Hydrating Face Oil for Dry and Sensitive Skin with Vitamin E for Soft, Smooth Skin - 30 ml
Best Vitamin C Serum for Face 2015. DOUBLE the Size of All Other Vitamin C Serums. Contains 20% Vitamin C, Pure Vegan 5% Hyaluronic Acid & Organic Jojoba Oil. Huge 2 oz Naturals Plant Based Serum
Poppy Austin's Huge 100% Pure Organic Rose Water Facial Toner 120ml / 4 Fl Oz - Vegan, Alcohol-Free & Cruelty-Free Rosewater Toner For Face - Triple Purified Eau De Rose For All Skin Types
MARIO BADESCU Skin Care glycolic foaming cleanser 6fl oz
30% off
6
NeoStrata Glycolic Renewal Smoothing Lotion, 6.8 ounces, 200 ml (Pack of 1)
NeoStrata
9.2
7
Revitale Advanced Glycolic Acid Soap
Revitale
9.0
8
Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser - Hydration Exfoliating & Moisturizing Salicylic, Lactic and Glycolic Acid Face Wash - Creamy Skin Smoothing Treatment Backed by Science, Travel size, 60ml
Murad
8.7
9
Neutrogena Hydro Boost+ Glycolic Acid Overnight Peel 94mL
Neutrogena
8.4
10
Glycolic Acid/AHA 15% Renewal Serum - Intensive Brightening, Smoothing, Exfoliating Serum for Night or Day - Fine Lines and Wrinkles Treatment - 30ml bottle
QRxLabs
8.2
A Guide to Selecting the Best Glycolic Acids
Choosing the right glycolic acid product can make a big difference in your skincare routine. Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps exfoliate the skin, making it smoother and brighter. When shopping for glycolic acid, it's important to consider your skin type, your experience with acids, and your skincare goals. Understanding the key specifications will help you find a product that is both effective and gentle enough for your needs.
Concentration (Percentage of Glycolic Acid)
Concentration refers to how much glycolic acid is present in the product, usually shown as a percentage. This is important because higher concentrations provide stronger exfoliation but can also increase the risk of irritation, especially for sensitive skin. Products typically range from about 2% to 20% glycolic acid. Lower concentrations (2-5%) are gentle and suitable for beginners or those with sensitive skin. Medium concentrations (6-10%) offer more noticeable results and are good for regular users. Higher concentrations (10-20%) are best for experienced users looking for intensive exfoliation. To pick the right one, consider your skin’s sensitivity and your experience with acids—start low if you’re new, and only move up as your skin builds tolerance.
Formulation Type
Formulation type describes the product’s form, such as toner, serum, cream, or peel. This matters because different forms deliver glycolic acid in different ways and can affect how your skin reacts. Toners and cleansers are usually milder and good for daily use, while serums and creams can be more concentrated and are often used a few times a week. Peels are the strongest and are used less frequently. Choose a formulation that fits your routine and comfort level—if you want a gentle introduction, start with a toner or cleanser; for more targeted results, try a serum or cream.
pH Level
The pH level of a glycolic acid product affects how well the acid works. Glycolic acid is most effective at a lower pH (around 3-4), but lower pH can also be more irritating. Most over-the-counter products are formulated to balance effectiveness and safety. If you have sensitive skin, look for products that mention being pH-balanced or formulated for sensitive skin. If you want maximum exfoliation and your skin can handle it, a lower pH product may be more effective.
Additional Ingredients
Many glycolic acid products include other ingredients like moisturizers, soothing agents, or antioxidants. These can help reduce irritation and provide extra benefits, such as hydration or calming the skin. If your skin is sensitive or prone to dryness, look for products with added moisturizers like hyaluronic acid or soothing ingredients like aloe vera. If you want more than just exfoliation, consider products with added vitamins or antioxidants.
Intended Use (Face, Body, or Specific Concerns)
Some glycolic acid products are designed specifically for the face, while others are made for the body or for targeting issues like dark spots or rough skin. This is important because the skin on your body is often less sensitive than your face, so body products may be stronger. Choose a product that matches where you want to use it and what you want to achieve—face products for facial exfoliation, body products for rough areas like elbows or knees, and targeted treatments for specific concerns like hyperpigmentation.
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