Best Glycolic Acid Face Serums of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 6, 2025

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Glycolic acid face serums are a popular skincare product known for their exfoliating and brightening properties. These serums are formulated with glycolic acid, a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane, which works to remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture. They are often used to address concerns such as fine lines, uneven skin tone, and acne scarring. With regular use, glycolic acid face serums can help reveal smoother, more radiant skin for a youthful, glowing complexion.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

InstaSkincare Glycolic Acid Serum 15% Cover #TOP 1
InstaSkincare Glycolic Acid Serum 15%
ftb score rating icon 9.8
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Face Serum Cover #TOP 2
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Face Serum
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Advanced Clinicals Glycolic Acid Peel Serum Cover #TOP 3
Advanced Clinicals Glycolic Acid Peel Serum
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Glycolic Acid Face Serums

#TOP 1

InstaSkincare Glycolic Acid Serum 15%

Blue
2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
InstaSkincare Glycolic Acid Serum 15% Cover
InstaSkincare Glycolic Acid Serum for Face 15% Strength - Extra Large Size (2Oz) - Advanced Formula for Enhancing Skin Radiance, Texture Improvement, Addressing Uneven Tone & Fine Lines

The InstaSkincare Glycolic Serum is designed to transform your skin with its unique blend of glycolic and lactic acids. This dual exfoliation process helps you achieve a smoother skin texture and a brighter complexion, giving you that youthful glow you desire. The lightweight formula penetrates deeply, encouraging collagen production and potentially improving your skin tone. Plus, it contains nourishing ingredients that not only exfoliate but also hydrate your skin, making it feel fresh and revitalized. With consistent use, you can unveil a more radiant and even-toned appearance.

What We Like
Dual exfoliation benefits
Improves skin texture
Hydrates while exfoliating
Encourages collagen production
#TOP 2

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Face Serum

071249403600
Translucent
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Face Serum Cover
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Face Serum, Visibly Evens Tone & Reduce Wrinkles, Fragrance Free 1.0 fl oz (30ml)

The L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Face Serum is a dermatologist-validated anti-aging serum that reduces wrinkles and dark spots. Its optimal concentration of glycolic acid resurfaces dead skin cells, revealing more even skin without being harsh on sensitive skin. The serum is highly concentrated and lightweight for optimal penetration and visible results. It is also fragrance-free, paraben-free, dye-free, and suitable for all skin types.

What We Like
Reduces wrinkles and dark spots in 2 weeks
Designed for daily use with a unique formulation to be gentle on sensitive skin
Highly concentrated and lightweight for optimal penetration and visible results
#TOP 3

Advanced Clinicals Glycolic Acid Peel Serum

Glycolic Acid Serum
Advanced Clinicals Glycolic Acid Peel Serum Cover
Advanced Clinicals 10% Glycolic Acid Serum For Face | Exfoliating AHA + Lactic Acid + Salicylic Acid Serum | Facial Chemical Peel Skin Care Treatment For Large Pores & Dark Spots. 1.75 FL Oz

Advanced Clinicals Glycolic Acid Peel Serum is a gentle formula that targets fine lines, large pores, age spots, and more. It increases skin hydration, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, uneven skin tone, acne scars, and dark spots. Its 3X AHA/ BHA Formula exfoliates dull looking skin and boosts turnover, and it features 4 different exfoliating acids. This facial serum is gentle enough for daily use and dry or sensitive skin.

What We Like
Instant results within 24 hours
Reduces the appearance of wrinkles, uneven skin tone, acne scars, and dark spots
3X AHA/ BHA Formula with 4 different exfoliating acids
#TOP 4

La Roche Posay Glycolic Acid Serum

U310003TR
white
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
La Roche Posay Glycolic Acid Serum Cover
La Roche-Posay Glycolic Acid Serum with Kojic Acid and Vitamin B5, Reduces Dark Spots and Discoloration, Skin Tone Corrector to Brighten & Even Skin Tone

La Roche Posay Glycolic Acid Serum is a lightweight serum that helps reduce the look of dark spots and discolorations, and reveals brighter, more even looking skin. It contains 10% pure glycolic acid, tranexamic acid (TXA), lipo-hydroxy acid, and vitamin B5 for optimal effectiveness while being suitable for sensitive skin. This dark spot corrector treats skin concerns like visible dark spots, visible age spots, visible discolorations, and uneven skin tone. It also contains kojic acid which helps visibly reduce skin discolorations. After 2 weeks, skin looks brighter and radiant, and after 4 weeks, the look of dark spots and discolorations is reduced.

What We Like
Reduces the look of dark spots and discolorations
Reveals brighter, more even looking skin
Suitable for sensitive skin
Treats visible dark spots, age spots, discolorations, and uneven skin tone
Contains kojic acid which helps visibly reduce skin discolorations
#TOP 5

QRxLabs Glycolic Acid/AHA 15% Renewal Serum

S-GLYC-1
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
QRxLabs Glycolic Acid/AHA 15% Renewal Serum Cover
QRxLabs Glycolic Acid/AHA 15% Renewal Serum for Face - Brightening, Smoothing, Exfoliant Serum for Night & Day - Fine Lines, Dark Spots & Wrinkles Treatment - Glycolic Acid 15% Serum - 1 fl oz Bottle

QRxLabs Renewal Serum is a high concentration facial serum that contains 15% Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) including Glycolic, Lactic, Citric, Malic, and Tartaric Acids from natural sources. This serum promotes smoother, younger-looking skin by increasing the rate of cell renewal. It also brightens the skin, increases radiance, and evens out skin tone over time. The serum is formulated to provide effective exfoliation without excessive irritation or sensitization of the skin. QRxLabs Renewal Serum is made in the USA in an FDA-registered facility, with professional-grade ingredients, and eco-friendly packaging. It is a perfect skincare solution for those looking to reduce fine lines, dark spots, and wrinkles.

What We Like
High concentration of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)
Proven to promote smoother, younger-looking skin
Brightens the skin and evens out skin tone
#TOP 6

Bliss Renew & Smooth Night Serum

1003-30111
Blue
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Bliss Renew & Smooth Night Serum Cover
Bliss Renew & Smooth Night Face Serum | Resurfacing Treatment with Glycolic Acid and AHA Glycolic + Polyhydroxy Acid | for Smoother, Brighter Skin | Vegan & Cruelty-Free Exfoliating Serum | 1 Fl Oz

Bliss Night Serum is an effective overnight treatment designed to help you wake up with smoother and brighter skin. This powerful serum features Glycolic Acid, which gently exfoliates your skin while you sleep, promoting a refined texture and a glowing complexion. It also accelerates cell turnover, helping to minimize the appearance of pores and dullness. With a unique blend of six acids, it works to improve skin tone and reduce fine lines and dark spots, making it suitable for all skin types without causing irritation.

What We Like
Brightens skin overnight
Reduces fine lines
Gentle, vegan formula
Improves skin texture
#TOP 7

Rejuvenating Glycolic Acid Face Serum

Provence Beauty
Renew
2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Rejuvenating Glycolic Acid Face Serum Cover
Rejuvenating Glycolic Acid Face Serum - Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C and Aloe Vera Helps Exfoliate and Minimize Pores, Reduce Acne, Breakouts, and Appearance of Aging and Scars - 2 Fl Oz

This facial serum contains glycolic acid that helps exfoliate and minimize pores, while stimulating the production of collagen and elastin to reduce signs of environmental damage. It also includes Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid to achieve anti-aging benefits, and Aloe Vera to heal damaged skin and provide hydration. The serum is safe and gentle for all skin types, and is made in the USA with a sustainable mindset.

What We Like
Stimulates the production of collagen and elastin
Reduces signs of environmental damage
Safe and gentle for all skin types
Includes Aloe Vera for healing and hydration
Made in the USA with a sustainable mindset

CeraVe Nightly Exfoliating Treatment | Anti-Aging Serum for Face

S4612500
CeraVe Nightly Exfoliating Treatment | Anti-Aging Serum for Face Cover
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 CeraVe Nightly Exfoliating Treatment is a hydrating facial serum that helps improve visible signs of aging, including dullness and discoloration. The serum contains Lactic and Glycolic Acids to minimize the appearance of fine lines, dark spots, and pores. It also has Licorice Root Extract to visibly brighten skin and Hyaluronic Acid to retain skin's natural moisture. The serum is formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help restore and maintain the skin's natural barrier. Developed with dermatologists, this noncomedogenic, paraben-free, and fragrance-free serum is suitable for various skin types.

What We Like
Contains Lactic and Glycolic Acids for gentle chemical exfoliation
Minimizes the appearance of fine lines, dark spots, and pores
Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid to retain skin's natural moisture
Contains Licorice Root Extract to visibly brighten skin
Developed with dermatologists and suitable for various skin types
#TOP 9

Elastalift Resurfacing Glycolic Acid Facial Peel Serum

EL12
Glycolic Acid Peel
Elastalift Resurfacing Glycolic Acid Facial Peel Serum Cover
Elastalift Resurfacing Glycolic Acid Facial Peel Serum, Anti-Aging Dark Spot Corrector Facial Peel Reduces Enlarged Pores, Minimizes Fine Lines, Evens Skin Tone, Exfoliating Chemical Peel, 1.75 Fl Oz

Elastalift Glycolic Acid Facial Peel is a covetable complexion treatment that helps to retexturize, resurface, and reveal luminous skin. With its powerful blend of glycolic, salicylic, lactic, and phytic acid, this chemical peel effectively targets age spots, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars. It works harder and deeper than physical exfoliators without harming sensitive skin. Regular use of this dark spot corrector can help reverse signs of aging, leaving you with a more youthful-looking complexion. Made in the USA with high-quality ingredients, Elastalift Glycolic Acid Facial Peel is suitable for all skin types. Plus, it is free from parabens, alcohol, mineral oils, dyes, and talc. Try it risk-free and wake up to clear, even, and confident skin.

What We Like
Retexturizes and resurfaces skin
Evens skin tone and reduces age spots
Works deeper than physical exfoliators

Pacifica Beauty Glow Baby Booster Serum

30397
Glow Baby
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Pacifica Beauty Glow Baby Booster Serum Cover
Pacifica Beauty, Glow Baby Booster Serum For Face, Vitamin C and Glycolic Acid, Brightens and Supports, For All Skin Types, Fragrance Free, Clean Skin Care, Vegan & Cruelty Free , 1 Fl Oz

Pacifica Beauty Glow Baby Booster Serum is a concentrated bioactive serum that moisturizes and improves skin texture and brightness for all skin types. It contains natural and vegan ingredients such as vitamin C and glycolic acid to bring back the skin's youthful glow. This serum can be used day and night and reapplied to clean skin whenever extra hydration is needed or added to your favorite moisturizer for an extra boost. It is also free of harsh chemicals including parabens, phthalates, SLS, mineral oil, and petrolatum, as well as sulfate-free and silicone-free.

What We Like
Luxurious formula
Brightens and improves skin texture
Natural and non-toxic
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does glycolic acid serum do for your face?

Glycolic acid serum exfoliates the top layer of the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It accelerates skin cell renewal, increases collagen production, and helps the skin retain hydration. This results in smoother, healthier-looking skin with reduced signs of aging.

2. Is it okay to use glycolic acid serum everyday?

It is generally safe to use glycolic acid face wash or ointments with a concentration of 1-2% daily. However, creams with higher glycolic acid content (10% and above) should only be used once or twice a week to avoid skin irritation.

3. Which is better retinol or glycolic acid?

For normal skin, both retinol and glycolic acid can be beneficial. Retinol is more effective for addressing aging concerns, while glycolic acid is great for overall skin brightness and texture improvement.

4. Which is better for your face hyaluronic acid or glycolic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is better for hydration and promoting collagen production, while glycolic acid works as an exfoliant, improving skin tone and texture. It depends on your specific skin concerns, but both ingredients can be beneficial for anti-aging.

5. Who should not use glycolic acid on face?

People with dry or sensitive skin may find glycolic acid too irritating. Additionally, some individuals may experience increased sensitivity to the sun when using glycolic acid. It is recommended to use a daily sunscreen to reduce the risk of sun exposure.

6. What not to use with glycolic acid?

Avoid applying products containing active ingredients, such as vitamin C, immediately after using glycolic acid. It is also best to avoid using other AHAs with glycolic acid to prevent any adverse reactions.

7. Should I moisturize after glycolic acid?

It is recommended to use an intensive moisturizer after applying a glycolic acid product, as it can be drying to the skin.

8. What to avoid when using glycolic acid?

Avoid using additional exfoliants while using glycolic acid to prevent dry skin and reduce the risk of irritation. If you have rosacea or are using vitamin C or benzoyl peroxide products, glycolic acid may worsen redness.

9. What happens if you use glycolic acid and retinol at the same time?

Glycolic acid and retinol work best at different pH levels. If you apply glycolic acid immediately after retinol, the pH of the skin may be altered, potentially reducing the efficacy of the products. It is best to use them at separate times.

Editor's Notes

During our glycolic acid face serum research, we found 48 glycolic acid face serum products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 217,431 customer reviews through our big data system to write the glycolic acid face serums list. We found that most customers choose glycolic acid face serums with an average price of $13.61.

The glycolic acid face serums are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of glycolic acid face serums, including InstaSkincare, Advanced Clinicals, La Roche-Posay, QRxLabs, Bliss. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,507 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.