The 9 Best Lactic Acid Serums That Will Leave Skin Glowing

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We're here to tell you that lactic acid doesn't just cause sore muscles. In the skincare world, salicylic acid and glycolic acid rank among the best chemical exfoliation ingredients—but lactic acid is right up there, too.

"Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid commonly used in skincare for its exfoliating and brightening benefits," says New York-based board-certified dermatologist Kiran Mian. Even better, it's considered relatively gentle, so practically all skin types can use lactic acid products.

Serums are one of the most effective ways to utilize the ingredient thanks to their higher concentration of the active ingredient. Below, find Bazaar's edit of the nine best lactic acid serums for brighter, clearer, and smoother skin according to dermatologists, editors, and reviewers.

Good Genes All-In-One AHA Lactic Acid Treatment

"This is arguably the most famous lactic acid serum of all time, and with good reason!" says Bazaar Beauty Director Jenna Rosenstein. "I reach for this whenever my skin needs a reset, or when it’s feeling particularly dull, clogged, or flaky. You’ll notice happier-looking skin after just one use, and in days, a marked reduction in breakouts and pigmentation."

Customer Review:

"This is hands down my holy grail product! I have extremely dry, sensitive skin and have struggled with eczema for years. This did amazing things for my skin barrier and blackheads/skin texture is completely gone." —ericabrand

Resurfacing Compound

Mian recommends this all-in-one brightening, tightening, and smoothing treatment from celeb-loved brand U Beauty, "as it combines lactic acid, retinol, and vitamin C, for those looking for a brighter complexion with fewer steps."

Customer Review:

"I started using this product a few weeks ago and it has left my skin so smooth and clear. I am so surprised every time I wake up and am very happy with the results so far!" —Leena

Lactic Acid AHA Exfoliating Serum

"This beloved serum was not only created by a Hollywood esthetician but also happens to be highly effective at minimizing dark spots and dullness," says Bazaar Associate Beauty Commerce Editor Tiffany Dodson, explaining that "It uses nine percent lactic acid along with gluconolactone" to resurface and clarify skin.

Customer Review:

"Not gonna lie this bad boy is pricey but it’s soo worth it my skin loves this stuff. I will definitely repurchase." —shawna85

UNSPOTTED 4X® Acid Jelly Night Serum

The "4X" in this serum's name is thanks to the 15 percent blend of lactic, azelaic, glycolic, and tranexamic acids, which together help reduce the appearance of dark spots, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation.

Customer Review:

"All I can say is wow this has really helped my skin tremendously I’ve noticed my skin getting smoother only after using for a few days it did not irritate my skin at all." —Sandy R

The Dewy Serum

"Tatcha is known for its powerful products that don’t irritate or disrupt the skin barrier, and its Dewy Serum with lactic acid is no exception," says Bazaar Associate Beauty Editor Katie Intner. "For days when my skin needs a refresh or I want to fake a facial, I use this resurfacing serum. The lactic acid unclogs pores, smooths lines, evens texture, and adds a glow, while hyaluronic acid and squalane hydrate and plump." She also notes that the serum acts like three products in one, "so I can just apply, moisturizer, and go to bed knowing I’ll wake up with smoother, plumper skin."

Customer Review:

"I’ve only been using this product for around 1.5 weeks and I have definitely already seen drastic improvements with my skin. Very hydrating and lightweight + has improved my skin texture." —naaayaa

HydroPeptide Pre-Treatment Toner

Mian also recommends this this "gentle yet effective" toner, which adds another, lightweight layer of brightening ingredients to your routine as it hydrates.

Customer Review:

"Seems to be very moisturizing and not at all harsh on my skin. I've noticed that my skin is brighter!" —Alexis

Plankton + PHA Flower Acid Algae Serum

Mara's lightweight lotion-like serum refreshes skin in more ways than one. In appearance, it uses lactic acid and PHA to exfoliate and clarify; and in texture, it feels cooling and soothing as it's applied.

Customer Review:

"I love this serum! It has transformed the texture of my skin. This serum has great skin benefits and I love that it’s lightweight. I love that it’s easy to add into my evening skincare routine! After one use, my skin already feels great and looks brighter." —JoBWood605

Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant

Featuring a blend of lactic and mandelic acids, consider this the gentler alternative to the brand's 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. Over time, it helps soften the look of fine lines and smooth skin's surface.

Customer Review:

"I was struggling so bad with inflammation of my skin, tons of texture, waking up with zits every day, rough and bumpy skin… this has completely helped! I use this at night and the BHA one during the day. Loveeee!" —Tricialouras

Smooth Booster Willow Bark Exfoliating Serum

Caviar lime, turmeric, basil, eggplant—the ingredient extracts in this jewel-toned serum sound like they're from a farmer's market. But you'll also find lactic acid, which boosts its exfoliating power.

Customer Review:

"I definitely have acne, and oily skin. but this product has literally made me have smoother skin and reduced redness! I LOVE IT" —Sandra

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Benefits of Lactic Acid?

In short, exfoliation. In a bit more detail, "lactic acid clears away dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. This helps combat dullness and uneven skin tone, revealing smoother and brighter skin," says Mian.

It also plays well with others. "Lactic acid can be combined with other skincare ingredients to increase skin’s cell turnover, making skin appear smoother, decreasing appearance of fine lines and pores," explains dermatologist Kseniya Kobets.

That said, like any ingredient, lactic acid isn't completely without side effects or risks: "It is a gentle exfoliation; however, it may be drying for those with sensitive skin," says Mian.

Who Should Use a Lactic Acid Serum?

Because lactic acid is on the gentle side of the AHA spectrum, it's fairly universally tolerated. "Anyone who wants to improve skin texture, whether it is lines or pores, lighten pigmentation or gradually stimulate collagen can benefit from lactic acid serums," says Kobets.

How Often Should You Use Lactic Acid in Your Routine?

Both derms recommend taking it easy at first. "If starting to incorporate into your regimen, you should ensure the skin is not irritated or inflamed, as lactic acid can cause some skin irritation, especially in sensitive skin," says Kobets. And hydration is as important as ever: "Make sure to use a moisturizer afterward to replenish hydration in the skin," reminds Mian.

Meet the Experts

• Dr. Kiran Mian, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery in New York

• Dr. Kseniya Kobets, MD, is the Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care in Elmsford, NY.

Why Trust Harper's Bazaar?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

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