Best Lactic Acid Face Serums of 2025

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

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Lactic acid face serums are a popular choice for those looking to improve their skin's texture and appearance. These serums are formulated with lactic acid, a gentle alpha hydroxy acid that helps exfoliate the skin, promote cell turnover, and improve overall skin tone. With regular use, lactic acid serums can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, leaving the skin looking smoother, brighter, and more youthful. Many people find that lactic acid serums are suitable for all skin types, making them a versatile and effective addition to their skincare routine.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Lactic Acid 7% + AHA 5% Serum for Face Cover #TOP 1
Lactic Acid 7% + AHA 5% Serum for Face
ftb score rating icon 9.9
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + Ha 2% 30ml Cover #TOP 2
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + Ha 2% 30ml
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Cos De BAHA Lactic Acid 12.5% Face Peel Serum with HA Cover #TOP 3
Cos De BAHA Lactic Acid 12.5% Face Peel Serum with HA
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Lactic Acid Face Serums

#TOP 1

Lactic Acid 7% + AHA 5% Serum for Face

ANLQ-1082
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Lactic Acid 7% + AHA 5% Serum for Face Cover
artnaturals Lactic Acid plus AHA Face Serum for Brightening Boost with Renewing Formula - Scars, Acne, Wrinkles - Exfoliates and Moisturizes the Skin - 1 oz.

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.

What We Like
Exfoliates and hydrates for double the benefits
Brightens, smooths, and evens skin for a more balanced appearance
Reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots while making skin appear firmer
#TOP 2

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + Ha 2% 30ml

8213018003099
Rose
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + Ha 2% 30ml Cover
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2%, Gentle Exfoliating Serum for Smoother Skin, 1 Fl Oz

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.

What We Like
Exfoliates the skin gently
Reduces inflammation and sensitivity
Helps resurface the skin to promote an even tone and a smooth, soft texture
Can be used once per day, ideally in the PM
Perfect for dry skin types
#TOP 3

Cos De BAHA Lactic Acid 12.5% Face Peel Serum with HA

CDB_LS30
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Cos De BAHA Lactic Acid 12.5% Face Peel Serum with HA Cover
Lactic Acid 12.5% Hydrating Serum with Botanical Extracts - Gentle Skin Renewal and Radiance, Enhanced with Aloe Vera and Green Tea, Soothes and Balances for a Glowing Complexion, 1 Fl Oz (30ml)

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.

What We Like
Brightens and evens skin
Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Hydrates and moisturizes the skin
#TOP 4

The Ordinary Lactic Acid Serum

769915190373
Rose
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
The Ordinary Lactic Acid Serum Cover
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%, High-Strength Exfoliating Serum for Smoother, Brighter Skin, 1 Fl Oz

The Ordinary Lactic Acid is a powerful serum designed to enhance your skin's appearance. With 10% lactic acid, it effectively exfoliates, improving skin texture and helping to create a more even skin tone. This serum also contains hyaluronic acid, which hydrates and plumps the skin, making it look radiant. Additionally, Tasmanian Pepperberry extract is included to minimize irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin. For best results, apply it at night and remember to use sunscreen the following day to protect your freshly exfoliated skin.

What We Like
Effective exfoliation
Hydrating formula
Soothes sensitive skin
Nighttime application
Cruelty-free and vegan

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

BIOSSANCE Squalane + Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum

3000626
1 Ounce (Pack of 1)
BIOSSANCE Squalane + Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum Cover
BIOSSANCE Squalane + Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum - Vegan 10% Lactic Acid Face Serum for Skin Texture and Fine Lines - Gentle Night Exfoliant, Hydrating - Pore Reducer for Face, 1.0 Ounce

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.

What We Like
Gentle yet powerful AHA exfoliant
Visibly diminishes fine lines and brightens complexion
Made with proven natural ingredients
#TOP 7

Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment

1418581
White
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment Cover
Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment Face Serum 1.0oz

Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment is a multi-tasking face serum which exfoliates dead skin cells, improves the appearance of lines, wrinkles and dark spots. The high potency, purified grade lactic acid helps in clarifying and revealing smoother, clearer and brighter skin. This super-concentrated treatment is clinically tested and proven to improve the appearance of lines, wrinkles and dark spots. The product is cruelty-free, sulfate-free, paraben-free, gluten-free, soy-free, phthalate-free, fragrance-free and vegan.

What We Like
Visibly reduces the appearance of lines, wrinkles and dark spots
Exfoliates dead skin cells to reveal smoother, clearer skin
Clinically tested and proven to improve skin appearance in just 3 minutes for lines and wrinkles, and 8 weeks for dark spots
#TOP 8

Minimalist Exfoliating Serum

AHA25
Minimalist Exfoliating Serum Cover
Minimalist 10% AHA (Lactic Acid & Glycolic Acid) BHA (Salicylic Acid) Exfoliating Serum | Mildly Exfoliates without Drying for Radiant, Youthful Skin | For Women & Men | 1 Fl Oz / 30 ml

Experience the Minimalist Serum, a gentle exfoliating solution that effectively removes dead skin cells without drying your skin. This serum utilizes a balanced blend of AHAs and BHA to stimulate cell renewal, resulting in an even complexion and smooth texture. Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe, it hydrates and soothes the skin, reducing irritation commonly associated with exfoliation. Additionally, it is a clean and transparent beauty product, free from fragrances, silicones, sulfates, parabens, essential oils, and dyes. Suitable for all skin types and tones, this serum is a great option for beginners in the world of acids, providing gentle yet effective exfoliation.

What We Like
Gentle Exfoliation
Evens Complexion
Hydrates & Soothes
#TOP 9

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 10

PAONN Lactic Acid Serum 10% + HA

PAONN
PAONN Lactic Acid Serum 10% + HA Cover
Lactic Acid Serum 10% + HA (1.01 fl. oz.), Exfoliates and Moisturizes, Facial Care Boost, Smooths and Evens Skin

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.

What We Like
Effective exfoliation
Reduces scars and wrinkles
Hydrates and moisturizes
Smooths skin texture
Even skin tone
Buying Guide Image

The Best Lactic Acid Face Serums You Should Consider

What is Lactic Acid?

Lactic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is derived from milk. It is commonly used in skincare products because of its ability to exfoliate the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin.

Why Should You Use a Lactic Acid Facial Serum?

Lactic acid is a gentle yet effective ingredient that can be used by people with all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is less irritating than other AHAs, such as glycolic acid, and can provide a range of benefits for the skin.

In addition to its exfoliating properties, lactic acid can also help to hydrate the skin, improve its elasticity, and stimulate collagen production. This can help to plump up the skin, giving it a youthful and radiant appearance.

How to Choose a Lactic Acid Facial Serum

When choosing a lactic acid facial serum, it is important to consider the concentration of lactic acid in the product. A serum with a concentration of 5% or less is typically considered to be gentle enough for daily use, while a concentration of 10% or higher may be more effective for treating specific skin concerns, such as acne or hyperpigmentation.

It is also important to consider the other ingredients in the serum, as these can affect its effectiveness and potential side effects. For example, some serums may contain additional exfoliating ingredients, such as salicylic acid, which can increase the potency of the product. However, these ingredients can also increase the risk of irritation, so it is important to choose a serum that is tailored to your skin type and concerns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lactic acid facial serums can provide a range of benefits for the skin, including exfoliation, hydration, and improved elasticity and collagen production. When choosing a lactic acid serum, it is important to consider the concentration of lactic acid, as well as the other ingredients in the product. By doing your research and choosing a high-quality serum that is tailored to your skin type and concerns, you can enjoy the benefits of lactic acid without risking irritation or other side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does lactic acid serum do for face?

It increases cell turnover and helps eliminate accumulated dead skin cells on the epidermis — the top layer of the skin. When using lactic acid in 12% concentrations, the skin gets firmer and thicker. As a result, there is an overall smoother appearance and fewer fine lines and deep wrinkles.

2. What serums can I use with lactic acid?

The Ordinary Lactic Acid serums can be used with water-based niacinamide serums like The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. Niacinamide provides additional skin barrier support, making it a great choice to pair with lactic acid.

3. Is lactic and hyaluronic acid the same?

The main difference between the two acids is the fact that hyaluronic acid doesn't perform exfoliating properties unlike lactic acid. Lactic acid is able to slough away the build-up of dead skin cells, which can result in breakouts, flaky patches of skin and lack lustre complexion.

Editor's Notes

During our lactic acid face serum research, we found 48 lactic acid face serum products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 184,505 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lactic acid face serums list. We found that most customers choose lactic acid face serums with an average price of $13.64.

The lactic acid face serums are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lactic acid face serums, including Artnaturals, The Ordinary, Cos De BAHA, CeraVe, BIOSSANCE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,569 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.