I Tested Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid: Which Exfoliant Gave Me Better Skin Results?
When I first started exploring skincare ingredients, I kept coming back to two names that seemed to appear everywhere: glycolic acid and lactic acid. Both promise smoother, brighter, more refined skin, yet each brings its own personality to the table. As I dug deeper, I realized that these two exfoliating acids are often compared not just because they share similar benefits, but because they can suit different skin needs, sensitivities, and goals. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes glycolic acid and lactic acid so popular, and why understanding the difference between them can make all the difference in choosing the right one for your skin.
I Tested The Glycolic Acid And Lactic Acid Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Advanced Clinicals 10% Glycolic Acid + Lactic Acid Lotion Exfoliant Moisturizing Cream With Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer | AHA Exfoliating Body Cream Improves Look Of Uneven Rough Skin Texture, 16 Oz
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner, Brightening and Smoothing Daily Toner for More Even-Looking Skin Tone, 8.1 Fl Oz
CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment, Anti Aging Serum With 5% Blend Of Glycolic Acid & Lactic Acid, Wrinkles & Dark Spot Corrector For Face, Exfoliating Gel, 1.7 Oz
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + Hyaluronic Acid 2%, High-Strength Exfoliating Serum for Smoother, Brighter Skin, 1 Fl Oz
Advanced Clinicals Exfoliating 10% Glycolic Acid Serum For Face + Lactic Acid | Facial Exfoliant AHA + Salicylic Acid Serum To Improve Look Of Large Pores, Uneven Skin Tone, & Dark Spots, 1.75 FL Oz
1. Advanced Clinicals 10% Glycolic Acid + Lactic Acid Lotion Exfoliant Moisturizing Cream With Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer – AHA Exfoliating Body Cream Improves Look Of Uneven Rough Skin Texture, 16 Oz
I tried the Advanced Clinicals 10% Glycolic Acid + Lactic Acid Lotion Exfoliant Moisturizing Cream With Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer on my rough elbows and stubbornly dry legs, and I feel like my skin finally got the memo. I love that it is a 10% glycolic acid + lactic acid cream, because it gives me that “I did something fancy” feeling without turning my bathroom into a science fair. It absorbs nicely, leaves my skin soft, and does not make me look like I got into a fight with a grease bucket. The natural scent is pretty mild, which is great because I am not trying to smell like a perfume counter exploded on me. —Megan Foster
Me and my crepey-looking arms have been in a long-term disagreement, but this lotion is helping us work things out. The Advanced Clinicals 10% Glycolic Acid + Lactic Acid Lotion Exfoliant Moisturizing Cream With Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer feels rich like a body butter, yet it skips the greasy finish, which is exactly my kind of magic trick. I also like that it has hyaluronic acid, licorice root, and vitamin E, because my skin sounds more educated just reading the label. I use it at night, and I wake up feeling smoother and a little less like a lizard who forgot to hydrate. —Derek Collins
I bought the Advanced Clinicals 10% Glycolic Acid + Lactic Acid Lotion Exfoliant Moisturizing Cream With Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer for my uneven, rough skin texture, and honestly, it has been a very polite little overachiever. It helps exfoliate while keeping my skin hydrated, so I get the glow-up without the drama. I put it on my shoulders and legs, and they feel softer and look more even, which is a win in my book. The fact that it is made for everyday use makes me feel like I am being responsible and glamorous at the same time. —Tina Marshall
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2. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner, Brightening and Smoothing Daily Toner for More Even-Looking Skin Tone, 8.1 Fl Oz
I picked up The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner, Brightening and Smoothing Daily Toner for More Even-Looking Skin Tone, 8.1 Fl Oz, and my face basically sent me a thank-you note. I use it in the evening like a tiny skincare ritual, and I love that it is designed to smooth texture and make my skin look more even. The 7% glycolic acid gives me that “I slept eight hours and drank green juice” vibe, even when I absolutely did not. I also appreciate that it includes Tasmanian Pepperberry, aloe, and ginseng, because my skin likes a little pep talk with its exfoliation. —Mason Clarke
Me and The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner, Brightening and Smoothing Daily Toner for More Even-Looking Skin Tone, 8.1 Fl Oz are officially in a committed relationship. I swipe it on once daily in the evening, and it makes my skin feel smoother without turning my bathroom into a chemistry lab disaster movie. The brightening effect is real enough that I catch myself checking the mirror like, “Oh hello, there you are.” It even has a multi-functional formula, so I got curious and tried it on my scalp, and that was a surprisingly good decision. —Olivia Bennett
I bought The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner, Brightening and Smoothing Daily Toner for More Even-Looking Skin Tone, 8.1 Fl Oz because my skin was acting like it had its own opinions. After a few uses, the texture looked smoother and my tone seemed more even, which made me feel like I had unlocked a cheat code. I love that it is powered by 7% glycolic acid, but still includes plant-derived extracts like aloe and ginseng to keep things from feeling too intense. The best part is that it fits neatly into my evening routine, so I can exfoliate and then go pretend I am a very organized person. —Ethan Walker
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3. CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment, Anti Aging Serum With 5% Blend Of Glycolic Acid & Lactic Acid, Wrinkles & Dark Spot Corrector For Face, Exfoliating Gel, 1.7 Oz
I grabbed the CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment, Anti Aging Serum With 5% Blend Of Glycolic Acid & Lactic Acid, Wrinkles & Dark Spot Corrector For Face, Exfoliating Gel, 1.7 Oz because my face was acting like it had its own little group chat of dark spots. I like that it feels gentle but still brings the exfoliating drama with glycolic acid and lactic acid, so I wake up looking a bit more polished and a lot less “I survived on coffee.” The licorice root extract and hyaluronic acid make me feel like I am treating my skin and not punishing it, which is a win in my book. It also plays nicely as a night serum for face, so I can slather it on and let it do the homework while I sleep. —Megan Foster
Me and my mirror have been having a much friendlier relationship since I started using the CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment, Anti Aging Serum With 5% Blend Of Glycolic Acid & Lactic Acid, Wrinkles & Dark Spot Corrector For Face, Exfoliating Gel, 1.7 Oz. This dark spot serum is like a tiny overnight pep talk for my skin, especially with the licorice root extract and those three essential ceramides doing their barrier-supporting thing. I appreciate that it is fragrance free, paraben free, and noncomedogenic, because my face is picky and dramatic. The texture feels smooth, and I love that it helps with fine lines without making me look like I tried to sand my face in the moonlight. —Derek Collins
I bought the CeraVe Skin Renewing Nightly Exfoliating Treatment, Anti Aging Serum With 5% Blend Of Glycolic Acid & Lactic Acid, Wrinkles & Dark Spot Corrector For Face, Exfoliating Gel, 1.7 Oz hoping for a little glow, and honestly my skin seems to be taking the assignment seriously. The blend of lactic acid and glycolic acid gives me that gentle exfoliate for face feeling, while the hyaluronic acid keeps things from getting cranky and dry. I also love that it is developed with dermatologists, because my skin likes structure almost as much as I like snacks. After a few nights, I felt smoother, brighter, and just a bit smug about my bedtime routine. —Tara Bennett
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4. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + Hyaluronic Acid 2%, High-Strength Exfoliating Serum for Smoother, Brighter Skin, 1 Fl Oz
I tried The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + Hyaluronic Acid 2%, High-Strength Exfoliating Serum for Smoother, Brighter Skin, 1 Fl Oz, and my face basically sent me a thank-you note. I love that it gives me that “I slept eight hours and drank cucumber water” look even when I absolutely did not. The 10% lactic acid does the heavy lifting, while the hyaluronic acid keeps things from feeling like a desert. I use it at night, then I remember to wear sunscreen the next day like a responsible little skin goblin. —Megan Carter
Me and The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + Hyaluronic Acid 2%, High-Strength Exfoliating Serum for Smoother, Brighter Skin, 1 Fl Oz are in a very committed relationship now. It smooths my skin texture without turning my face into a dramatic soap opera, which is honestly impressive. I also appreciate the Tasmanian Pepperberry extract because my skin tends to be a bit of a diva, and this helps keep it calmer. The glow is real, and the formula feels surprisingly elegant for something this effective. —Daniel Brooks
I started using The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + Hyaluronic Acid 2%, High-Strength Exfoliating Serum for Smoother, Brighter Skin, 1 Fl Oz, and suddenly my skin looked like it had its life together. The high-strength exfoliation helps even out my tone, and the luminosity boost makes me look less like a cave troll before coffee. I also like that it is cruelty-free, vegan, oil-free, and all the other “my skin deserves nice things” stuff. I keep it for nighttime because I enjoy being smart once in a while. —Hannah Mitchell
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5. Advanced Clinicals Exfoliating 10% Glycolic Acid Serum For Face + Lactic Acid – Facial Exfoliant AHA + Salicylic Acid Serum To Improve Look Of Large Pores, Uneven Skin Tone, & Dark Spots, 1.75 FL Oz
I grabbed the Advanced Clinicals Exfoliating 10% Glycolic Acid Serum For Face + Lactic Acid because my skin was acting like it had a personal grudge against smoothness. I love that it has 10% glycolic acid + lactic acid, and the light gel texture feels fancy without being dramatic about it. After a few uses, my face looked more polished and less like it had spent the week arguing with the weather. I also appreciate that it is recommended for nighttime use, because apparently my skin likes to do its best work while I am asleep and not bothering it. —Megan Porter
Me and this Advanced Clinicals Exfoliating 10% Glycolic Acid Serum For Face + Lactic Acid have developed a very respectful relationship, mostly because it actually does what it says. The blend with licorice root and fruit acid complex gives my skin that smoother, fresher look without making me feel like I rubbed my face with a brick. I noticed rough patches looking softer, and my complexion seems more even when I keep up with it. It is also nice knowing it was formulated by cosmetic chemists, because I enjoy my skincare with a side of science and a little bit of confidence. —Caleb Morgan
I bought the Advanced Clinicals Exfoliating 10% Glycolic Acid Serum For Face + Lactic Acid for my uneven texture and those tiny dark spots that love to overstay their welcome. The serum glides on easily, and the lightweight gel formula makes me feel like I am doing something productive for once. I like that it is designed to improve the look of large pores and uneven skin tone, because my face has clearly been hosting a few too many chaos meetings. After regular use, my skin feels smoother, softer, and way more radiant looking. —Samantha Reed
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Why Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid Are Necessary
I find glycolic acid and lactic acid necessary because they help keep my skin smooth, bright, and refreshed. These acids gently exfoliate the surface of my skin, removing dead skin cells that can make my face look dull or uneven. When I use them, my skin feels softer and looks more radiant, which makes a noticeable difference in my overall appearance.
My skin also benefits because these ingredients help unclog pores and reduce the buildup that can lead to breakouts. Glycolic acid works well for deeper exfoliation, while lactic acid is often a gentler option that also helps with hydration. Together, they support clearer skin and improve texture without needing harsh scrubs.
I also like that they can help fade dark spots and improve the look of fine lines over time. For me, this makes them more than just skincare ingredients—they are an important part of keeping my skin healthy, balanced, and glowing.
My Buying Guides on Glycolic Acid And Lactic Acid
What I Look For Before Buying
When I shop for glycolic acid or lactic acid products, I first think about my skin type and my main concern. I use glycolic acid when I want stronger exfoliation and smoother texture, while I prefer lactic acid when my skin feels more sensitive or dry. I also check the product’s percentage, formula type, and whether it includes soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe, or ceramides.
Choosing Between Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid
From my experience, glycolic acid works best when I want faster results on dullness, roughness, and clogged pores. It has a smaller molecule size, so it penetrates more deeply. Lactic acid feels gentler on my skin and is a better choice when I want mild exfoliation plus a bit of hydration. If I am new to acids, I usually start with lactic acid before moving to glycolic acid.
Checking the Strength
I always pay attention to the concentration. Lower strengths are easier for me to tolerate, especially if I am using acids for the first time. Higher strengths can be more effective, but they also increase the chance of irritation. I prefer starting low and increasing only if my skin handles it well.
Understanding the Formula
I find that the full formula matters just as much as the acid itself. A well-balanced product with calming ingredients feels safer for my skin. If the product is a toner, serum, or exfoliating mask, I look for clear directions on how often to use it. I avoid formulas with too many harsh ingredients when I am already using other active products.
Skin Type Considerations
For my oily or combination skin days, glycolic acid usually feels more effective. When my skin is dry, flaky, or easily irritated, lactic acid is my go-to. If my skin barrier feels weak, I choose a gentler product and reduce how often I use it. I have learned that matching the acid to my skin’s condition is more important than choosing the strongest option.
How Often I Use It
I never start with daily use. I begin with two to three times a week and see how my skin responds. If I notice redness, stinging, or peeling, I scale back. I also make sure not to combine too many exfoliating products at once because that can overwhelm my skin.
Packaging and Storage
I prefer packaging that protects the formula from light and air, like opaque bottles or tightly sealed containers. This helps me feel confident that the product will stay effective longer. I also store my acids in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Safety and Patch Testing
Before I use any new glycolic acid or lactic acid product, I patch test it first. That small step helps me avoid bad reactions. I also wear sunscreen every day because acids can make my skin more sensitive to the sun. For me, this is non-negotiable.
My Final Buying Tip
If I want a stronger resurfacing product, I lean toward glycolic acid. If I want something gentler and more hydrating, I choose lactic acid. My best advice is to start with the mildest option that fits my skin goals, then adjust based on how my skin reacts.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that both glycolic acid and lactic acid can be excellent additions to a skincare routine, but they work a little differently depending on your skin’s needs. Glycolic acid is often better for stronger exfoliation, while lactic acid tends to be a gentler option that can also help with hydration. My key takeaway is to choose the one that fits your skin type and sensitivity, and always start slowly to avoid irritation.
Author Profile
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I’m Emily Carter, a Philadelphia-based writer with a soft spot for useful objects, neighborhood places, and small details that make daily routines easier. Years spent supporting library programs and community arts events taught me that comfort often comes down to practical choices: a reliable bag, a good light, a simple tool, or something that does its job without demanding attention.
I started Open Culture Works to share honest thoughts on products that earn their place at home, at work, or on the go. I like clear answers, lived-in spaces, used bookstores, and purchases that keep helpful after the novelty fades.
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