Lactic Acid for Uneven Texture

  • Overview
  • Retinol: The Wrinkle Fighter
  • Hyaluronic Acid: The Hydration Hero
  • Niacinamide: The Discoloration Eraser
  • Peptides: The Barrier Protector
  • BHA/PHA: The Epic Exfoliator
  • Squalane: The Mega Moisturizer
  • Vitamin C: The Dullness Ditcher
  • Lactic Acid: The Smoothing Wonder
  • Collagen: The Firming Fave
  • Salicylic Acid: The Oil Banisher

Best Lactic Acid Picks

Clean plus Planet Aware
BiossanceSqualane + 10% Lactic Acid Resurfacing Serum
$88.00
1K
Dr. Dennis Gross SkincareAlpha Beta® Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads
$124.00
7.7K
Kiehl's Since 1851Ferulic Brew Facial Treatment Essence with Lactic Acid
$84.00
555
The OrdinaryLactic Acid 10% + HA 2% Exfoliating Serum
$12.20
1.5K
Clean at Sephora
OLEHENRIKSENGlow2OH 7% AHA Exfoliating Dark Spot Toner
$47.50
3K
Clean at Sephora
Sunday RileyGood Genes All-In-One AHA Lactic Acid Treatment
$115.00
5.8K
Dr. Dennis Gross SkincareAlpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads
$124.00
1.5K
Kate SomervilleExfoliKate™ Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
$107.00
3.2K
Kate SomervilleExfoliKate™ Cleanser Daily Foaming Wash with AHA & Enzymes
$62.00
1.1K
Clean plus Planet Aware
SkinfixResurface+ Glycolic and Lactic Acid Renewing Body Scrub
$43.50
888
The OrdinaryLactic Acid 5% + HA
$10.70
217

FAQs

What is lactic acid? Lactic acid is a hydrating alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) commonly derived from milk, but there are alternative vegan sources, like fermented corn starch, beets, and other sugar-rich foods. Synthetic forms of this ingredient are often found in peels and serums.

What does lactic acid do for skin? Lactic acid brightens, smooths, and evens skin, while also making it look firmer. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.

What are the benefits? Lactic acid brightens dullness, smooths, and evens skin, while also making it look firmer. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.

How does it work exactly? It exfoliates by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells to reveal a more radiant complexion.

How do I use it? It’s generally recommended for nighttime use, and suggested frequency varies from product to product. Check the packaging for specific instructions.

Are there any potential side effects? You may experience slight tingling, stinging, and/or redness. (Don’t worry—this is normal.)

What can I pair it with? While it can be used with many other ingredients and products, sunscreen’s an essential when lactic acid is a part of your routine. Another important step: cleansing the morning after you use lactic acid to sweep away dead skin cells.

Anything I shouldn’t pair it with? Don’t use it on days you use retinol since both are potent ingredients. Alternate between the two to avoid irritation.

Tips & Tricks

Go slow. Start by following the instructions on the packaging—many advise using lactic acid every other night, or even once or twice a week. Slight tingling or redness is normal, but if you experience anything more intense, talk to your derm.

Layer on a moisturizer. This essential step nourishes and balances skin so it doesn’t overproduce oil.

Say yes to SPF. Sun protection is a must when using lactic acid because sloughing off dead skin cells can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage.

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