Best Glycolic Acid Facial Cleansing Gels of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

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Glycolic acid facial cleansing gels are a popular choice among those looking for a deep cleanse and exfoliation. These gels are formulated with glycolic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid that helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, leaving skin feeling refreshed and smooth. They are suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and can be used daily to help improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin. These gels are often enriched with other nourishing ingredients such as aloe vera, vitamin E and green tea extract, which help to soothe and hydrate the skin while also providing antioxidant protection.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel Cover #TOP 1
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser for Normal to Combination Skin Cover #TOP 2
Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser for Normal to Combination Skin
ftb score rating icon 9.7
RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel Facial Cleanser Cover #TOP 3
RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel Facial Cleanser
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Glycolic Acid Facial Cleansing Gels

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel

071249419854
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel Cover
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 3.5% Pure Glycolic Acid Brightening Cleansing Gel wth Salicylic Acid 6.7 fl oz

The L'Oreal Paris Revitalift 3.5% Pure Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel with Salicylic Acid gently dissolves impurities, makeup, and dead cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin. Its non-drying formula hydrates and refines the appearance of enlarged pores. This fragrance-free, paraben-free, allergy-tested, mineral oil-free, and dye-free formula is perfect for daily use. Dermatologist-validated, it preps your skin for serum application and is perfect for resurfacing your skin.

What We Like
Removes impurities, oil, and makeup
Hydrates and refreshes the skin
Non-drying formula perfect for daily use
#TOP 2

Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser for Normal to Combination Skin

C73480
White
Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser for Normal to Combination Skin Cover
Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser - Exfoliating Face Wash for Normal to Combination Skin - With 4.7% Pure Glycolic Acid - Vegan & Fragrance-Free - 6.7 fl. oz.

Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser is a lightweight exfoliating gel cleanser made with 4.7% Free Acid Value Glycolic Acid that helps remove dirt, oil and dull, dead skin cells, visibly improves skin's tone, and prepares skin for other treatments. This daily cleanser is gentle and moisturizing, making it perfect for normal to oily skin types. The best-selling cleanser helps resurface skin and promote healthy, glowing skin. Simply mix a small amount with water, massage over your wet face & neck, then rinse with warm water and pat dry.

What We Like
Exfoliates and removes debris for smooth, rejuvenated skin
Visibly improves skin's tone and prepares it for other treatments
Lightweight and gentle formula perfect for normal to oily skin types
Fragrance-free and vegan

RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel Facial Cleanser

RoC
210101900
ORANGE
6 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel Facial Cleanser Cover
RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel Vitamin C Cleanser, Face Wash, Facial Cleanser with Glycolic Acid, Paraben-Free, Sulfate-Free Skin Care - 6 Ounces

RoC Glow Gel Cleanser is an invigorating gel cleanser that instantly dissolves dirt and oils, revealing smooth and refreshed skin after just one use. It extracts dulling impurities trapped on the skin's surface and replenishes skin with Vitamin C, Ascorbic Acid, and Glycerin to brighten and boost radiance. In just two weeks, users can see brighter and radiant skin, improve uneven skin tone, and visibly smooth rough skin texture. 8 out of 10 users saw more radiant skin with daily cleansing. RoC Glow Gel Cleanser is perfect for those looking for a solution for deep wrinkles, fine lines, dark circles, crow's feet, uneven skin tone, or dry skin. With its citrus scent and paraben-free and sulfate-free formula, it is a must-have for people who want to achieve healthy-looking skin.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Brightens complexion
Sulfate-free and paraben-free
Effective exfoliation
Affordable price
#TOP 4

Advanced Clinicals Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Face Wash

Acne Face Wash
Advanced Clinicals Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Face Wash Cover
Advanced Clinicals Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Face Wash For Women & Men | Lactic Acid & Salicylic Acid Facial Cleanser | Glycerin Gel Gleanser Helps Gently Exfoliate & Cleanse Dirt & Oil, 11.75 Fl Oz

The Advanced Clinicals Exfoliating Wash is designed to gently cleanse and refresh your skin every day. It combines glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids to remove dirt, oil, and dead skin, leaving your face smoother and brighter. The gel formula creates a rich, foamy lather that cleanses deeply without drying out your skin, making it perfect for daily use. Infused with peppermint and eucalyptus oils, this face wash not only exfoliates but also provides a cooling and invigorating sensation, helping you feel refreshed and ready to face the day or wind down at night. It’s ideal for anyone dealing with dull or uneven skin texture.

What We Like
Gentle exfoliation blend
Rich, foamy lather
Refreshing peppermint scent
Daily use formula
#TOP 5

Pixi Beauty Glow Tonic Cleansing Gel

885190812622
Pixi Beauty Glow Tonic Cleansing Gel Cover
Pixi Glow Tonic Cleansing Gel | Glycolic Acid Facial Cleanser | Gently Exfoliates, Tones & Energizes Skin | With Ginseng, Aloe & Horse Chestnut | 4.57 fl oz/135ml

The Pixi Glow Tonic Gel is designed to refresh and energize your skin. This gentle cleanser purifies your complexion, removing impurities while ensuring your skin stays hydrated. Infused with glycolic acid, it helps to brighten your skin tone and enhance your natural glow. Additionally, the blend of soothing ingredients like horse chestnut extract and aloe vera works to calm irritation and provide extra moisture. With ginseng to boost circulation, this cleanser preps your skin perfectly for the rest of your skincare routine, making it a convenient choice for both morning and evening use.

What We Like
Hydrates while cleansing
Brightens skin tone
Soothes irritation
Boosts skin energy
#TOP 6

Cicamed ASD Acne Cleansing Gel

2043
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Cicamed ASD Acne Cleansing Gel Cover
Cicamed ASD Acne Cleansing Gel - Cleanser with Glycolic & Salicylic Acid for Oily & Blemish-Prone Skin - Gentle Face Wash to Exfoliate & Unclog Pores - 3.4 fl. oz (100 ml)

The Cicamed Acne Cleansing Gel is perfect for those with oily and acne-prone skin. It gently cleans your face without harming your skin’s natural barrier, leaving it feeling fresh and balanced. The cleanser contains glycolic acid to exfoliate dead skin cells and salicylic acid to clear out clogged pores, helping to reduce breakouts. Soothing ingredients like witch hazel and aloe vera calm any irritation, while vitamin B helps fade discoloration. This gel is easy to use twice daily, making it a convenient step in your skincare routine to keep your skin clear and healthy.

What We Like
Gentle for oily skin
Exfoliates and unclogs pores
Soothes irritation
Reduces discoloration
Easy daily use
#TOP 7

Glytone Exfoliating Face Wash - Normal to Combination Skin

White
Glytone Exfoliating Face Wash - Normal to Combination Skin Cover
Glytone Mild Gel Exfoliating Cleanser, Pure Glycolic Acid Face Wash for Moisturizing & Rejuvenating Skin, Vegan & Fragrance-Free Face Exfoliator Scrub for All Skin Types, 13.5 fl. Oz.

Glytone Mild Gel Cleanser is a facial cleansing gel suitable for normal to combination skin. It contains 4.7% pure glycolic acid, which thoroughly cleanses, exfoliates, removes makeup, and unclogs pores, leaving your skin soft, smooth, and revitalized. This vegan and fragrance-free product is gentle on your skin and perfect for daily use.

What We Like
Thoroughly cleanses and exfoliates
Removes makeup and unclogs pores
Leaves skin soft, smooth, and revitalized
#TOP 8

Glytone Mild Gel Exfoliating Cleanser

04051026
white
2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Glytone Mild Gel Exfoliating Cleanser Cover
Glytone Mild Gel Exfoliating Cleanser, Pure Glycolic Acid Face Wash for Moisturizing & Rejuvenating Skin, Vegan & Fragrance-Free Face Exfoliator Scrub for All Skin Types, 2 fl. Oz.

The Glytone Glycolic Acid Cleanser offers gentle exfoliation that helps clear away dirt, oil, and dead skin cells, improving your skin's tone and texture. Its lightweight gel formula not only cleanses but also hydrates your skin, making it a great addition to your daily skincare routine. This cleanser also targets signs of aging by reducing fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a smoother, more youthful look. Plus, it’s vegan and free of fragrances, so it’s kind to sensitive skin and cruelty-free, allowing you to care for your skin with confidence and ease.

What We Like
Gentle exfoliation
Hydrating gel formula
Anti-aging effects
Vegan and fragrance-free
#TOP 9

Rodial Vit C Brightening Cleanser

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clear
Rodial Vit C Brightening Cleanser Cover
Rodial Vit C Brightening Cleanser 4.6 fl oz - Daily Gel Facial Cleanser with Vitamin C, Glycolic & Lactic Acids for Smoother, Firmer, More Radiant Skin

The Rodial Brightening Cleanser is a gentle daily gel that freshens your skin with vitamin C and natural fruit acids, helping to reduce dullness and give you a radiant glow each morning. It uses glycolic and lactic acids to smooth out uneven skin texture and soften fine lines, making your complexion look more refined without causing irritation. The light gel turns into a soft foam that cleans deep into pores, removing buildup and leaving your skin feeling clean and balanced. Plus, its fruit acid blend supports moisture, so your skin stays fresh and luminous day after day.

What We Like
Brightens dull skin
Smooths uneven texture
Deep pore cleansing
Hydrating fruit acids
Gentle daily use
#TOP 10

Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel

10-03-815
Cranberry
2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel Cover
Peter Thomas Roth | Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel | Face Wash with Anti-Wrinkle Technology, Exfoliates with Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid, 2.0 Fl Oz

The Peter Thomas Roth Face Wash is designed to help you care for your skin by replenishing moisture, repairing damage, and calming irritation. This gentle cleanser leaves your face feeling fresh, smooth, and radiant after every use. It also promotes a natural, healthy look by supporting pure skincare without harsh ingredients. With its exfoliating acids, it helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, making your skin look younger and more vibrant. Using this face wash regularly can make your skincare routine easier and more effective, giving you a clean and glowing complexion.

What We Like
Moisture replenishment
Skin repair
Soothing effect
Exfoliation
Natural skincare
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is a glycolic cleanser good for your skin?

"AHAs like glycolic acid are useful in skincare, as they break the bonds between dead skin cells," explains board-certified dermatologist Ife Rodney, MD, FAAD, of Eternal Dermatology and Aesthetics. "Glycolic acid speeds up cell turnover of these surface cells while stimulating new skin cell growth.

2. What face wash has the most glycolic acid?

Glycolic Acid Cleanser: The List. Formulyst Clarifying AHA Cleanser, $29.SkinCeuticals Purifying Cleanser, $35.Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Cleanser, $44.Peter Thomas Roth 3% Glycolic Solutions Cleanser, $39.Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser, $16.Glytone Mild Cream Cleanser, $33.

3. Is it okay to use glycolic acid cleanser everyday?

Is Glycolic Acid okay for everyday use? Depending on the concentration, yes, you can use Glycolic Acid every day. If you're new to chemical exfoliants, you should work up to using it every day slowly rather than overdoing it at the beginning.

4. How do you use glycolic acid cleansing gel?

Dermalogica Daily Glycolic CleanserGlytone Mild Gel CleanserPeter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging Cleansing GelBiopelle Exfoliate CleanserGlycolic Acid Facial Cleanser Alpha Hydroxy Face Wash with AHAGlycolic Acid Gel Facial Cleanser 6oz | Gentle Exfoliation | QRxLabsPrescriptSkin Glycolic Acid CleanserDbts Skin Bar Aha Dermal Cleansing Gel w/15% Glycolic AcidDr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting Cleansing GelReviva Labs Glycolic Acid Facial CleanserArtNaturals LUXE Glycolic Facial CleanserRoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Gel CleanserKorean Skin Care Dr Song Glycolic Acid Face WashQRxLabs Glycolic Acid Face Wash Exfoliating Gel CleanserAcure Resurfacing Glycolic & Unicorn Root CleanserChristina Fresh AHA Face Cleansing GelHero Cosmetics Clear Collective Exfoliating Jelly CleanserGlycolactic Gentle Gel CleanserAnthony Glycolic Facial Cleanser

Editor's Notes

During our glycolic acid facial cleansing gel research, we found 48 glycolic acid facial cleansing gel products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 70,646 customer reviews through our big data system to write the glycolic acid facial cleansing gels list. We found that most customers choose glycolic acid facial cleansing gels with an average price of $26.28.

The glycolic acid facial cleansing gels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of glycolic acid facial cleansing gels, including L'Oreal Paris, GLYTONE, RoC, Advanced Clinicals, Pixi. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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.