Lactic Acid vs. Glycolic Acid: Which Exfoliant Should You Choose?

Exfoliation is a key step in any skincare routine: it stimulates cell renewal and eliminates dead skin cells that dull the complexion. Among the most popular exfoliating ingredients are lactic acid and glycolic acid, two AHAs (Alpha-Hydroxy Acids) with slightly different benefits. How do you choose the one that's best for your skin?

Lactic Acid: A Gentle and Hydrating Exfoliant

Lactic acid is a naturally derived AHA often extracted from milk or certain fermented fruits. It is distinguished by its exfoliating and hydrating properties, making it an ideal choice for sensitive or dehydrated skin.

Benefits of Lactic Acid

+ Gently exfoliates: it removes dead skin cells without irritating the skin.
+ Hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier: unlike other acids, it attracts water and helps maintain hydration.
+ Improves skin radiance: it evens out the complexion and reduces irregularities.
+ Ideal for sensitive and dry skin: its action is gentler than that of glycolic acid.

Good to know: Lactic acid has a larger molecular size than glycolic acid, meaning it penetrates less deeply into the skin and acts primarily on the surface.

Glycolic Acid: An Ally for Cell Renewal

Glycolic acid is an AHA derived from sugar cane. It is one of the most powerful exfoliants in its category due to its small molecular size, which allows it to penetrate deeper into the skin.

Benefits of Glycolic Acid

+ Stimulates cell renewal: it accelerates desquamation to reveal smoother, brighter skin.
+ Reduces pigment spots and fine lines: by boosting collagen production, it improves skin texture.
+ Unclogs pores: it helps fight imperfections and refines skin texture.
+ Ideal for combination to oily skin and mature skin: its action is more intense than that of lactic acid.

Good to know: Glycolic acid can be more irritating for sensitive skin, especially at high concentrations. It is recommended to introduce this type of acid gradually into your routine.

Which Exfoliant to Choose for Your Skin Type?

Dry, sensitive, or reactive skin → Lactic acid: it gently exfoliates while maintaining hydration.

Combination to oily skin, prone to imperfections → Glycolic acid: it regulates excess sebum and refines pores.

Mature skin or skin prone to pigment spots → Glycolic acid: it stimulates cell renewal and improves radiance.

How to Incorporate These Acids into Your Skincare Routine?

Frequency of use: start with 1 to 2 times a week, then adjust according to your skin's tolerance.
Application: use them in the evening to avoid photosensitization, always followed by appropriate hydration.
Sun protection: AHAs make the skin more sensitive to the sun, so applying an SPF 50 during the day is essential.

Our Seasonly Recommendation

Want a new skin effect without using classic acids? The New Skin Mask uses fruit enzymes for gentle exfoliation, without the risk of irritation. Its gel-in-oil texture transforms exfoliation into a real skincare moment.

In summary:
Lactic acid is gentler and more hydrating, perfect for sensitive skin.
Glycolic acid is more powerful and penetrating, ideal for a quick effect.
In all cases, sun protection and appropriate hydration are essential to protect your skin.