If you’ve been in the skincare community for a while, you’ve likely heard or read about glycolic acid. It’s a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), which works as a chemical exfoliator. It’s found naturally in various plants and fruits, including grapes, sugar cane, and pineapples. When used correctly, it can fight off acne, reduce wrinkles, smooth out your skin texture, and brighten your complexion.

Glycolic acid works by dissolving the surface of your skin that’s made up of dead skin cells, allowing radiant new skin cells to resurface. It’s way gentler than the traditional physical exfoliator, making it far better at improving your skin’s health. From glycolic acid serums to toners, here are the best glycolic acid products you’d want to try to amp up your skincare routine.

The INKEY List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Toner

Want to try a glycolic acid product without breaking the bank? This budget-friendly INKEY List toner will be perfect for you. This product contains 10% glycolic acid and fits all skin types from dry to oily. Formulated also with 5% witch hazel, this toner can help absorb excess oil, prevent acne, and rejuvenate your skin for smoother and vibrant skin. 

SkinMedica GlyPro Antioxidant Serum

If you’re in need of a brightening and anti-aging boost, you’ll love SkinMedica's GlyPro glycolic acid serum. With 15% glycolic acid, this serum can battle signs of aging while also hydrating and nurturing your skin to make it look more luminous. This serum is suitable for all skin types and can help address many issues, including hyperpigmentation, acne, dark spots, and uneven skin texture.

SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator Replenishing Serum

This bottle has 20% glycolic acid, which is much higher than most other products like it. Additionally, it's a bifunctional serum, meaning it exfoliates and hydrates, so it doesn't dry out the skin like other acidic products can.

Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Glycolic Overnight Cream

If dark spots and hyperpigmentation are on your mind (and your skin), then give this overnight cream a try. It contains hyaluronic acid to bring moisture to your skin, and the brand's trademark Viniferine ingredient, which claims to lighten dark spots and acne scars more than twice as effectively than vitamin C.

L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Serum

While some glycolic acid products are too harsh for sensitive skin, this L'Oréal serum is designed with a dual resurfacing and soothing effect that allows you to use it nightly without irritation. It also helps dissolve dead skin cells for an instantly smoother texture, and it helps to visibly reduce dark spots and wrinkles. You'll want to layer it on after cleansing your face, but before adding a moisturizer.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

Want a powerful toner that won't wipe away your bank account? This under-$10 pick will do just the trick: It's filled with 7% glycolic acid to wipe away dirt and grime lingering deep within your pores, while aloe vera and ginseng calm and hydrate your skin.

GOOPGLOW 15% Glycolic Overnight Glow Peel

Goop Beauty's glycolic acid peel pads give you a pro-level treatment — no aesthetician appointment necessary! Designed to be used once a week on your face, neck, and chest, these pads deliver a powerful dose of glycolic acid and fruit extracts that exfoliate and brighten skin overnight. Plus, while it might seem like a splurge, this box contains a 3-month supply.