Best value Trending
The Ordinary
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
8.1Great
The viral red 10-minute at-home peel: strong, cheap and effective on texture, but only for experienced, non-sensitive skin.
Peel5$9.50
Exfoliants & acne actives· in 2 products
Glycolic acid
Also listed as Hydroxyacetic acid and AHA (alpha hydroxy acid)
Strong evidence 5–10% leave-on at home (pH 3.5 or higher); 20–70% peels by professionals
Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), derived from sugarcane or made synthetically, and the most common chemical exfoliant in toners, serums and peels. It smooths texture and brightens dullness but is the most likely AHA to sting.
2GaGlycolic acidExfoliants & acne actives
What it does
The short version.
Glycolic acid loosens the bonds between dead cells in the outermost layer of skin so they shed more evenly, revealing smoother, more even-looking skin. Its small molecule penetrates quickly, and with regular use it can soften rough texture, fade uneven tone and help other products absorb. Strength depends on both concentration and pH: lower pH means more free acid and a stronger effect.
Strong evidence
AHAs are among the best-studied cosmetic exfoliants, with clinical and regulatory safety reviews; the US Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel considers consumer products safe at 10% or less with a pH of 3.5 or higher.
In our directory: It’s a key ingredient in 2 products we review, most often exfoliants & masks. Those products are mostly built for smoothing, resurfacing and dullness. In formulas, it most often shares the label with lactic acid, salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid.
Usually a good fit for
How to use it
Getting it right.
Start two or three evenings a week on dry skin, after cleansing and before moisturizer, and increase only if skin is comfortable. Wear sunscreen daily.
Layering
Friends & frenemies.
Pairs well with
Go slow with
Not forbidden — just easier to over-do. Alternate nights or separate morning and evening.
Before you start
Can raise sun sensitivity: the FDA advises daily sunscreen while using AHA products and for a week after stopping. Stinging, redness and peeling signal overuse. Avoid on broken, sunburned or freshly shaved or waxed skin, and avoid layering several exfoliants. Professional peels should be done by a trained practitioner.
References
- 1Alpha Hydroxy Acids — U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- 2Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin — Molecules (2018), via PubMed
- 3Chemical peels (face peels) — DermNet
Educational, not medical advice. Ingredient guides summarise published research and expert guidance; formulas and concentrations differ between products.
2 products
Every product with glycolic acid.
2 products
Best value Trending
The Ordinary
Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
8.0Great
A cheap, effective daily glycolic toner for smoother, brighter skin, best for resilient skin that already tolerates acids.
Toner4$9.00
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