Lactic Acid / Glycolic Acid / Salicylic Acid

Chemical exfoliants that improve texture, tone, and clarity while supporting barrier-friendly skincare

What Are These Acids?

Chemical exfoliants are active ingredients that accelerate the removal of dead skin cells, promoting smoother, brighter, and healthier-looking skin.

The three most common types in skincare:

1. Lactic Acid – An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk or fermentation. Gentle and hydrating.
2. Glycolic Acid – An AHA derived from sugarcane. Smallest molecular size, penetrates quickly for visible exfoliation.
3. Salicylic Acid – A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) derived from willow bark. Oil-soluble, targets clogged pores and excess sebum.

Each has a unique role but all share the goal of supporting cell turnover and maintaining smoother, healthier skin.

How These Acids Work in Skincare

Lactic Acid (AHA)

• Water-soluble: Works on the surface to gently exfoliate dead skin cells
• Hydrating properties: Helps skin retain moisture
• Ideal for sensitive or dry skin needing gentle exfoliation

Glycolic Acid (AHA)

• Small molecular size: Penetrates deeper for effective exfoliation
• Improves skin texture, brightness, and fine lines
• Best for uneven tone, dullness, and early signs of aging

Salicylic Acid (BHA)

• Oil-soluble: Penetrates pores to exfoliate inside
• Reduces clogged pores, blackheads, and breakouts
• Ideal for oily or acne-prone skin

Skin Benefits of These Acids

1. Exfoliation and Texture Improvement
   
• Removes dead skin cells
• Smooths rough or uneven skin
• Supports brighter, more radiant skin
  
2. Pore-Clarifying and Oil Control
   
• Salicylic acid reduces sebum and congestion
• Helps prevent breakouts and blackheads
  
3. Supports Barrier-Friendly Aging
   
• Lactic acid gently exfoliates without over-stripping
• Glycolic acid encourages subtle collagen support
• Helps maintain skin resilience when used correctly
  
4. Enhanced Absorption of Other Actives
   
• Prepares skin for hydrators, antioxidants, or brightening agents
• Improves overall product efficacy
  

Who Should Use Chemical Exfoliants?

Best for:

• Dull or uneven skin
• Textural irregularities or fine lines
• Oily, combination, or acne-prone skin (for BHA specifically)
• Skin needing improved tone or clarity

Use with caution if:

• Skin barrier is compromised
• You have highly reactive or sensitive skin
• Overuse can cause irritation or redness

Pro Tip: Always follow chemical exfoliation with broad-spectrum sunscreen, as skin becomes more sensitive to UV exposure.

Choosing the Right Acid for Your Skin

Glycolic Acid Exfoliator

AHA Peeling Concentrate

Purifying Toner

Why Lactic, Glycolic, and Salicylic Acids Matter

These chemical exfoliants are essential for modern skincare routines. When used responsibly, they smooth, brighten, and clarify skin while complementing barrier-supportive ingredients, making them staples for healthy, resilient, and balanced skin.

Learn about other ingredients