Best Lactic Acid Face Serums of 2026

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + Ha 2% 30ml is a mild alpha hydroxyl acid facial peel that gently exfoliates the skin. Its 5% formulation is perfect for dry skin types and is supported with a purified Tasmanian pepperberry to reduce inflammation and sensitivity. This treatment helps resurface the skin to promote an even tone and a smooth, soft texture. It can be used once per day, ideally in the PM, and it is recommended to avoid contact with eyes.

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.

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.

DRMTLGY Refining Serum is a powerful exfoliating face serum that contains 12% lactic acid and gluconolactone. It helps in reducing hyperpigmentation, dark spots, fine lines, and uneven skin texture, giving you a smoother and healthier-looking complexion. The serum's gentle exfoliants work with licorice root to reveal a polished skin surface by removing dead skin cells and excess sebum. Additionally, it is made in the USA and is cruelty-free. For those with sensitive skin, it can be used as a 15-minute mask. Overall, this serum offers a convenient solution for addressing various skin concerns.

This facial serum is a mild lactic acid superficial peeling formulation that exfoliates and moisturizes the skin. The brightening formula hydrates, smooths, and evens skin, resulting in a more balanced appearance. Lactic Acid (AHA) helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots while making skin appear firmer. It is perfect for dry skin types and is a 100% vegan formula with no animal testing.

Biossance Squalane + Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum is a gentle yet powerful AHA exfoliant that dissolves dead skin cells. The product minimizes signs of aging, giving you a smoother, softer texture, visibly diminished fine lines, and a brighter complexion. Made with vegan lactic acid, squalane, and clover, the serum is a natural and proven solution to renew your skin. The serum is part of your daily nontoxic skincare routine, and it is vegan, cruelty-free, and made without parabens or synthetic fragrances or PEG.

Cos De BAHA Lactic Acid Serum is a daily exfoliation formulation that provides mild exfoliation for healthier skin. This serum contains lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk or alternative vegan sources. It brightens, smooths, and evens the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. The serum also helps to make the skin look firmer. With its hydrating properties, it leaves the skin feeling moisturized and refreshed. Cos De BAHA Lactic Acid Serum is a convenient addition to your skincare routine, providing multiple benefits for a more youthful and radiant complexion.

The Sunday Riley Good Genes is a face serum designed to refresh your skin by gently removing dead skin cells. This exfoliation helps reveal a brighter, more radiant complexion, giving your skin an instant glow. It also works to lighten dark spots and uneven skin tones, making your face look clearer and more even. Additionally, the serum smooths your skin’s surface, improving texture and making your skin feel soft and healthy. Using this serum can help you maintain a fresh, vibrant appearance with clearer and smoother skin.

SHANI DARDEN Serum is a powerful overnight serum designed to gently exfoliate and enhance the clarity of blemish-prone skin. It features dual exfoliating acids - Lactic Acid and Gluconolactone - to smooth, refine, and re-texturize the skin. The Soothing Complex included in the serum helps relieve the skin and minimize irritation. The Lactic Acid polishes away dead skin cells, revealing smoother and more glowing skin, while Gluconolactone exfoliates and evens skin tone. The Soothing Complex, comprising Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe, and Green Tea, provides soothing and hydrating benefits. This serum is easy to use and suitable for all skin types, offering cruelty-free, vegan, and paraben-free skincare.

The PAONN Lactic Acid Serum offers powerful exfoliation and hydration for your skin. With 10% lactic acid, this serum helps remove dead skin cells, revealing a brighter complexion. You'll notice a reduction in scars, acne, and wrinkles, giving your skin a smoother and more youthful appearance. Additionally, the inclusion of hyaluronic acid and panthenol ensures your skin remains moisturized and plump, making it perfect for daily use. This serum works to even out your skin tone, promoting a balanced and radiant look that leaves you feeling refreshed and confident.