Active · PM · Exfoliate, Brighten
Glycolic and lactic acid (AHA)
AHAs such as glycolic and lactic acid are water-soluble exfoliants that loosen dull surface cells, so skin looks smoother and more even.
Glycolic and lactic acid (AHA) at a glance
- What it does
- Glycolic acid is the smallest and most active. Lactic acid is gentler and also hydrates. How much they do depends on strength and pH.
- Who it suits
- Normal, dry and combination skin with dullness, rough texture or uneven tone.
- Who should be careful
- AHAs increase sun sensitivity, so daily sunscreen matters. They can sting on sensitive or broken skin. Start 2 or 3 nights a week.
- AM or PM
- Evening, 2 or 3 times a week to start.
- Don’t layer with
- Retinol and retinal: Not recommended in the same routine. Retinol and an AHA in the same PM routine can irritate. Try alternate nights.
- Vitamin C: Best split AM and PM, or on different nights. Both work at a low pH and together they can sting. Use vitamin C in the morning and AHA at night.
- Salicylic acid (BHA): Best split AM and PM, or on different nights. Two exfoliants in one routine can be too much. Use them on different nights unless your skin is used to both.
- PHA (gluconolactone): Best split AM and PM, or on different nights. Both exfoliate. Pick one per routine.
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Products with glycolic and lactic acid (aha)
