Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave this storySave this story
If your skin's looking a little dull or feeling rough, the best alpha hydroxy acid products might be exactly what your routine is missing. Also known as AHAs, these chemical exfoliants loosen the bonds that hold dead cells together, making way for smoother, brighter, and more even-looking skin.
But before you grab the first AHA you see, know that they don't all work the same way—and they’re not always right for everyone. Glycolic acid is known for its ability to tackle uneven texture and fine lines, while lactic acid exfoliates but “also has hydrating properties, so it tends to be more tolerable for dry or sensitive skin,” Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans, previously told Allure. Mandelic acid, meanwhile, has a larger molecular size, making it an even gentler option for easily irritated skin. And you don't have to commit to an intense chemical peel to reap the benefits. AHAs show up in everything from cleansers and toners to serums, pre-soaked pads, and even body lotions.
Our Top Alpha Hydroxy Products
- Best Cleanser: SkinMedica AHA BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, $48
- Best Facial Pads: Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads, $69
- Best Face Mask: Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel, $125
- Best Lip Treatment: Obagi Lip Therapy AHA+PHA Smoothing Micro-Peel, $55
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- What are alpha hydroxy acids?
- Can you use AHAs with retinol?
- Who shouldn’t use AHAs?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Of course, more exfoliation isn't always better (your skin barrier would like a word). We tapped board-certified dermatologists and Allure editors to narrow down the formulas worth adding to your routine.
Best Cleanser: SkinMedica AHA BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Save to wishlist
SkinMedica
AHA BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying SkinMedica’s AHA + BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Deanna Pai
Why it’s worth it: When a cleanser has won over multiple Allure staffers—including our editor in chief—and earned the approval of multiple dermatologists we spoke with, you know it's doing something right. SkinMedica’s AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser is a go-to for oily, breakout-prone, and dull skin, thanks to its combination of three different exfoliating methods. A blend of AHAs (including glycolic, lactic, citric, and malic acids) loosens dead surface cells and smooth uneven texture, while salicylic acid (a beta hydroxy acid) gets into pores to clear out excess oil and buildup. Soft jojoba spheres also provide a little physical exfoliation without the harsh scratchiness of traditional scrubs. “This is one I recommend regularly in practice and genuinely love because it does a lot without being aggressive,” says Alexandra Bowles, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in Cincinnati. “It lathers nicely, rinses clean, and doesn't leave the skin feeling stripped or tight afterward.”
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
LargeChevron
"This exfoliating cleanser does the impossible: It leaves my skin super-soft and smooth, even when I'm dealing with hormonal breakouts, but never feeling squeaky-clean or overly tight. That's a big deal, considering the potent ingredients in its lineup. Plus, the combo of AHAs and BHA targets my two primary concerns, hyperpigmentation and acne, respectively." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key AHAs: glycolic, lactic, citric, and malic acids
- Other ingredients: salicylic acid, jojoba beads
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Facial Pads: Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads
Save to wishlist
Elemis
Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads
Amazon
Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads
Alessandra Foresto
Why it's worth it: You might need to wait weeks to start seeing results from most skin-care products, but a few swipes of Elemis’ Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads deliver an immediate glow that looks like you've been putting in the work for months. The 2026 Best of Beauty Award winner combines gentle lactic acid with the brand's Tri-Enzyme Technology (papain, protease, subtilisin) to dissolve dead skin cells without disrupting the moisture barrier. A probiotic ferment complex (Lactococcus ferment lysate) also supports skin renewal, improving rough texture and the appearance of dark spots over time, so there are longer-term perks, too. It might look like an unassuming cotton pad, but it's got a lot more going for it than meets the eye.
Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto
LargeChevron
“I'm new to using exfoliating pads, but lately my eczema breakouts are leaving hyperpigmentation behind almost immediately, and I need a little more regular exfoliation. I tried a few different exfoliating toners but didn't see a significant change until I started using these. My facialist commented on how much better my dark spots looked after a month of use. They don't sting, smell strongly, or leave my face feeling dry.” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key AHA: lactic acid
- Other ingredients: Tri-Enzyme Technology (papain, protease, subtilisin), probiotic ferment complex (Lactococcus ferment lysate)
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Serum: Sofie Pavitt Face Mandelic Clearing Serum
Save to wishlist
Sofie Pavitt Face
Mandelic Clearing Serum
Shop
Sephora
Why it's worth it: They don't call Sofie Pavitt the “acne whisperer” for nothing. The New York City-based esthetician has made a name for herself treating breakout-prone skin, so naturally, her namesake line has a thing or two to offer anyone dealing with clogged pores. Case in point: The Face Mandelic Clearing Serum, which uses 8% mandelic acid to slough away dead skin cells, smooth uneven texture, and help prevent the buildup that can lead to breakouts. What sets it apart from other AHAs, like glycolic acid, is its larger molecular size, which means that it penetrates skin more slowly and therefore tends to be gentler. And because acne-prone skin still needs moisture, the formula pairs two forms of hyaluronic acid with soothing panthenol to replenish hydration and prevent irritation.
Allure commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann applying the Sofie Pavitt Face Mandelic Clearing Serum
Sarah Hoffmann
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Sofie Pavitt Face Mandelic Clearing Serum
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann
LargeChevron
"I used to be a splash of cold water, SPF, and go type of morning skin care person, but this serum made me completely change my tune. The difference it makes in how my skin looks throughout the day (and how my makeup wears) is astounding. My skin is prone to looking either very oily or very dull about eight hours into the day—how'd I get both issues? Just lucky I guess—and I give this serum total credit for keeping my skin looking actually nice after a long day of commuting in NYC's less-than-perfect air, sitting in a high-rise office for eight hours, then getting up to who knows what after work. I feel like I can see the antioxidant protection in action when I use this. It keeps my skin looking like I freshly applied my skin care, which is such a feat." —Sarah Hoffman, commerce market editor
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
LargeChevron
“I recently got a facial with the one and only Sofie Pavitt and got my hands on this serum, which I've heard raving reviews about but hadn't yet tried. I know! But, to be fair, I wasn't sure if it was the best fit for me. I rarely get breakouts, but I have been keen to incorporate more acids into my daily rotation. (I can't be trusted to mask every week—though I am very excited to try the brand's latest launch: a hot and cold mask duo when my skin needs a deep reset!) Mandelic acid is already known to be gentle, so we love that, and this serum also packs hyaluronic acid and panthenol for extra hydrating and calming benefits. Overall, I really appreciate how relatively simple the ingredients list is—no filler ingredients—and I find that my complexion is looking brighter and more even as time goes on! I use this every a.m., and it's so lightweight (almost watery) that I can barely feel it once it's sunk in.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key AHAs: 8% mandelic acid
- Other ingredients: hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate, panthenol (vitamin B5), glycerin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Face Mask: Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Save to wishlist
Shani Darden
Triple Acid Signature Peel
Amazon
Nordstrom
Shop
Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Jessica Cruel
Why it's worth it: Professional treatments like microneedling, lasers, and extractions can give your skin a fresh start, but you don't have to do all the upkeep in a dermatologist's office. At-home chemical peels can help maintain certain results by exfoliating dead skin cells, smoothing texture, and gradually fading lingering discoloration. For those who've moved beyond beginner-level exfoliants, Shani Darden created the Triple Acid Signature Peel, which is as close to a professional facial as you can get without leaving your bathroom—and helps explain its 2023 Best of Beauty Award.
The two-step treatment starts with a potent trio of glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids to tackle uneven tone, fine lines, and rough texture, followed by a mask with kaolin and bentonite clays. Because this isn't your average exfoliator, follow the directions. Apply the Triple Acid Solution Peel for just one minute (or up to two if your skin can tolerate it), then layer the Neutralizing Clay Mask directly on top for 10 minutes. The second step helps neutralize the acids and ease any tingling, so you can get the smoothing benefits without leaving the peel on longer than intended.
Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel
LargeChevron
“When I have to be on TV or walk the red carpet, there is only one product I trust to leave my skin glowing, and that's this peel. I have been lucky enough to get the full celeb facial treatment at Shani Darden's LA studio. This two-step exfoliant bottles a little of that magic up for at-home use. I love that it comes with a brush to apply the acid step. Then, you slather on the clay mask, which gives the whole thing a whipped consistency. It tingles a bit, but after I rinse, my skin is visibly glowier.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key AHAs: glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid
- Other ingredients: kaolin clay, bentonite clay, cucumber extract
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Body Lotion: Amlactin Daily Nourish Body Lotion
Save to wishlist
AmLactin
Daily Nourish Body Lotion
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Amlactin Daily Nourish Body Lotion
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it's worth it: AmLactin makes no secret of its star ingredient—it’s right there in the brand name, which is a mash-up of ammonium lactate, a form of lactic acid. Ammonium lactate is made by combining lactic acid with ammonia, which makes it less acidic (and therefore gentler). That means it can still slough away dead skin cells while drawing in moisture to soften dry, rough patches. The brand’s Daily Nourish Body Lotion keeps things refreshingly simple, pairing 12% ammonium lactate with moisturizing glycerin, mineral oil, and not much else. “It’s especially helpful for people who want to smooth rough, bumpy patches of dry skin without complicating their body-care routine,” says Nicole Ruth, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
LargeChevron
“As someone with sensitive, dry skin, lactic acid has always played nicely into my routine. So, I happily slathered AmLactin’s Daily 12% Lactic Acid Moisturizing Lotion all over the backs of my arms, where I’m constantly battling keratosis pilaris. Immediately after applying, my skin looked softer and more hydrated—but to be fair, any good moisturizer can give you that instant gratification. What surprised me was what happened over the following weeks: The uneven texture and patchy redness on the backs of my arms started looking more even and less inflamed. One of my kids even pointed out that my arms looked ‘less red,’ which might be the most brutally honest product-testing panel out there.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key AHA: 12% ammonium lactate
- Other ingredients: glycerin, mineral oil
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Lip Treatment: Obagi Lip Therapy AHA+PHA Smoothing Micro-Peel
Save to wishlist
Obagi
Lip Therapy AHA+PHA Smoothing Micro-Peel
Amazon
Dermstore
Shop
Han applying the Obagi Lip Therapy AHA+PHA Smoothing Micro-Peel
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: You can go through all the lip balm in the world, but if dead skin cells are hanging around on the surface, your lips may still look and feel flaky. Instead of relying on a gritty scrub (which can be harsh on delicate lip skin), Obagi’s Lip Therapy AHA+PHA Smoothing Micro-Peel uses three exfoliating acids—glycolic, lactic, and gluconolactone—to gently loosen buildup and smooth rough texture. “I like that it pairs chemical exfoliation with hydrating ingredients such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which help attract water and support smoother, softer lips,” says Dr. Ruth.
Shea butter and argan oil also help seal in that hydration. Just don't get too enthusiastic with lip exfoliation: “Because the lip barrier is delicate, I recommend using any exfoliating treatment conservatively and following with a bland, occlusive lip balm,” says Dr. Ruth, whose go-to recommendation is good old-fashioned Vaseline.
Tester feedback from Han
LargeChevron
“I truly can't be bothered with physical lip scrubs housed in tiny tubs, but my crusty lips are constantly begging for exfoliation. The solution is a chemical exfoliator exactly like this Obagi one. It comes out like a clear lip serum that smooths my dry lips almost instantly, thanks to a blend of glycolic, lactic, and polyhydroxy acids. I like to slather on a bit, rub my lips together, and run my clean fingertips along the top and bottom just to make sure everything's absorbing properly. It's so quick and easy! I was worried about stinging but I don't experience an ounce of irritation with this formula. Since I'm not great at applying SPF to my lips during the day, I prefer applying this at night and waiting a minute or so before I layer a lip mask over it.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key AHAs: glycolic acid, lactic acid
- Other ingredients: gluconolactone (PHA), hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter, argan oil
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Chemical Peel: SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads
Save to wishlist
SkinBetter Science
AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads
SkinBetter Science
Contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads
Deanna Pai
Why it's worth it: If you've spent any time in a dermatologist's office (or on SkinTok), chances are you've heard of SkinBetter Science's AlphaRet. The brand's signature technology combines a retinoid with lactic acid to smooth fine lines, uneven tone, and rough texture, and its AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads take things a step further. Glycolic acid joins the mix to slough away dead surface cells, while salicylic acid tackles buildup inside pores. “I like that this is a more thoughtfully balanced approach than relying on a single, aggressive exfoliating acid,” says Dr. Ruth. Heads up: The combination of exfoliating acids and a retinoid might be intense for sensitive, reactive, or already irritated skin, especially if you're new to chemical exfoliation. “These can be strong for some patients, and I only recommend using them one to three times a week,” she says.
Tester feedback from Pai
LargeChevron
“I've been a fan of SkinBetter's AlphaRet for years—the Clearing Serum is amazing if you have acne-prone skin—so I had a feeling I'd like these peel pads. And I was right. They're definitely intense, with just the slightest tingling sensation, but my oily, acne-prone, dark spot-riddled skin needs the power. It left my skin smoother and clearer after a single pass. I'm using them every other night to start, alternating them with my regular retinoid (and occasionally taking breaks from both, depending on my skin). It's not for the faint of heart, but it's excellent if your skin can handle it.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key AHAs: lactic acid, glycolic acid
- Other ingredients: salicylic acid, retinol
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What are alpha hydroxy acids?
Alpha hydroxy acids are a family of water-soluble chemical exfoliants, often derived from sources like sugarcane, milk, and fruit, that help loosen the bonds holding dead skin cells together. By clearing away that buildup, they can improve uneven texture, discoloration, and the appearance of fine lines.
Unlike oil-soluble beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), such as salicylic acid, which can penetrate pores to help clear excess oil and congestion, AHAs primarily work on the skin's surface. And while they all share the same basic job description, some are more aggressive than others. Here's how the most common types stack up, according to Dr. Ruth:
- Glycolic acid: The smallest of the bunch, glycolic acid penetrates skin relatively easily, making it one of the more potent AHAs for tackling rough texture, dark spots, and fine lines. The downside? It can be irritating, especially for sensitive skin.
- Lactic acid: A multitasker that exfoliates while also attracting moisture, making it a good option for dry skin that needs smoothing without sacrificing hydration.
- Mandelic acid: Its larger molecular size means it penetrates more slowly, making it generally better tolerated by sensitive or easily irritated skin.
- Citric, malic, and tartaric acids: These fruit-derived AHAs can contribute to exfoliation and help adjust a formula's pH, though they're less studied as standalone exfoliants.
“Glycolic acid tends to be the most potent exfoliator, while lactic acid can provide exfoliation with some hydrating benefits,” says Dr. Ruth. “Mandelic acid penetrates more gradually and may be better tolerated by easily irritated skin.”
Can you use AHAs with retinol?
Yes, AHAs and retinol can absolutely coexist in your skin-care routine (just look at SkinBetter Science's AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads on our list), but that doesn't mean you should go all in on both at once. Both ingredients encourage skin cell turnover, so combining them can increase the risk of dryness, redness, and irritation, especially if you're new to either one. If you’re a beginner to acids and/or retinol, “rather than layering them in the same routine, I recommend alternating nights,” says Dr. Ruth. “For example, using an AHA one night and separate retinol another. You will get the benefits of both while giving the skin barrier time to recover.”
Who shouldn’t use AHAs?
AHAs aren't off-limits for sensitive skin, but if you're dealing with an active eczema flare, rosacea, a compromised skin barrier, or skin that's already irritated or peeling, it's best to hold off until things calm down. The same goes for freshly waxed skin or skin recovering from certain in-office treatments, like lasers and chemical peels. Even if your skin generally tolerates exfoliation well, dermatologists warn that AHAs can increase sun sensitivity, making your skin more vulnerable to UV damage. When introducing an AHA, start slowly, consider using it at night, and be especially diligent about applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher during the day.
Meet the experts
- Alexandra Bowles, DO, a board-certified dermatologist at MONA Dermatology based in Cincinnati
- Nicole Ruth, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Weiser Skin MD based in New York City
- Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, internist, and dermatopathologist based in New Orleans
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of best alpha hydroxy acid products, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
