9 Best Glycolic Acid Lotions for an Even-toned Clear Skin

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Feb 08, 2024
Best Glycolic Acid Lotions
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Glycolic acid is trending in the skincare market for all good reasons. Just like salicylic acid, glycolic acid is also a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (or AHA) that is derived from sugar cane. Most skincare products use this multi-beneficiary acid as their hero ingredient. From reducing acne-related issues and curing pigmentation concerns to moisturizing your skin, the benefits of using the best glycolic acid lotions can be life-changing. These penetrate deep into the skin and reveal younger-looking smoother skin. Take a look at the below-mentioned 7 best glycolic acid lotions, as per our expertise, to reap the benefits of this skin-revitalizing formula for the face and body.

9 Best Glycolic Acid Lotions

This skin-soothing glycolic acid body lotion exfoliates your skin and removes dead cells. It nourishes and improves the texture of your skin giving you a smooth and soft touch. You can also reduce the effects of Keratosis Pilaris, a skin condition also known as chicken skin, by using this glycolic acid lotion. It hydrates, cures rough bumps on the skin, and also improves cracked heels and elbows.

Pros
  • Renews skin
  • Moisturizing
  • Fragrance-free
  • Spreads evenly
Cons
  • May contain animal-derived ingredients
  • Best For Gentle Exfoliation

    Alpha Skin Care Renewal Body Lotion

    Alpha Skin Care Renewal Body Lotion
  • This anti-aging formula contains 12% glycolic acid (AHA) that works like magic to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It is suitable for all skin types and gently exfoliates your skin, lifting away dead skin cells. Enriched with vitamins and plant nutrients, Alpha Skin Care Renewal Body Lotion is one of the best glycolic acid lotions that make your skin feel smooth and refreshed almost instantly. First-time users are recommended to do a patch test before application.

    Pros
    • Clinically-tested
    • Fresh scented
    • Fades dark spots
    • Promotes cellular turnover
    Cons
    • May increase skin sensitivity

    Quick Tip

    Start by using the glycolic acid lotion thrice a week. Increase the usage gradually to every day if you don’t notice any allergic reactions or redness, to attain the lustrous skin of your dreams.

  • Best Fragrance-free Formula

    Glytone Rejuvenating Lotion

    Glytone Rejuvenating Lotion
  • Formulated with Glytone’s 20 PFAV standard of glycolic acid, this rejuvenating lotion moisturizes and hydrates your skin. It irons out fine lines and wrinkles while increasing the cell turnover rate giving you younger-looking skin. This effective glycolic acid lotion also works well to fight against active acne and its marks. If soft and clean skin is what you are aiming for, this is exactly what you need to try out!

    Pros
    • Oil-free
    • Best suited for oily skin
    • Fragrance-free
    • Non-comedogenic
    Cons
    • Unsatisfactory lotion consistency
  • Best for Everyday Use

    Glytone Daily Body Lotion

    Glytone Daily Body Lotion
  • Next, we have Glytone Daily Body Lotion with broad spectrum SPF 15. This nourishing body lotion helps make your skin baby-soft and glowing. It also reduces dark spots and addresses pigmentation issues. Enriched with vitamin E and shea butter, this glycolic acid lotion moisturizes, corrects skin texture, and cures other imperfections on the body. It is exfoliating in action and also provides UVA/UVB protection.

    Pros
    • Fragrance-free
    • Relieves dry patches
    • Smooths rough bumps
    Cons
    • Could be too harsh for sensitive skin
  • Best Lightweight Formula

    Paula's Choice Skin Revealing Body Lotion

    Paula's Choice Skin Revealing Body Lotion
  • Paula's Choice Skin Revealing Body Lotion contains 10% glycolic acid which is safe for everyday use. It is suitable for most skin types and cures common skin concerns including dryness, acne, fine lines, or sensitive skin. Formulated with a pH of 3.5 - 3.9, this glycolic acid body lotion is backed by research on visibly improving skin texture, tone, and radiance. It is an excellent moisturizing agent that will help soften your skin.

    Pros
    • No parabens
    • Lightweight
    • Fragrance-free
    • Calms keratosis pilaris
    Cons
    • Slow results
  • Best Antioxidant-rich Formula

    Perfect Image Gly + Sal Exfoliating Body Lotion

    Perfect Image Gly + Sal Exfoliating Body Lotion
  • With a blissful papaya scent, this exfoliating glycolic acid lotion for the body is a must-have skincare product. It contains green tea, papaya, bearberry, licorice, and an amino complex that works efficiently to cleanse the body and moisturize the skin. The collagen-stimulating glycolic acid content in this body lotion helps increase structural strength within the skin's matrix and nourishes it from within. It also helps reduce the signs of aging giving you a youthful radiant look.

    Pros
    • Ultra-light
    • Increases collagen production
    • Pore-cleansing
    • Antioxidant-rich
    • Promotes tissue health
    Cons
    • May not suit all skin types
  • Editor’s Pick

    SkinfixKP+ Psoriasis Smoothing Treatment Body Lotion

    SkinfixKP+ Psoriasis Smoothing Treatment Body Lotion
  • Banish pesky keratosis pilaris bumps with the Skin fx glycolic acid body lotion. The product contains an invincible combination of active ingredients, including salicylic acid that prevents the accumulation of dead skin cells, excess sebum, and grime. Moreover, it prevents the occurrence of redness, inflammation and itchiness by intensely moisturizing the skin. Adding to that, it is consciously curated with the expertise of skincare professionals without any artificial fragrances, synthetic dyes, parabens, or sulfates, and is hence best suited for sensitive skin.

    Pros
    • Non-itchy
    • Anti-inflammatory
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • A bit pricey
  • Best for Discolored Skin

    TATA Harper Resurfacing + Smoothing Body Serum

    TATA Harper Resurfacing + Smoothing Body Serum
  • Your skin will definitely thank you for introducing it to this lotion by Tata Harper. It contains a powerful amalgamation of vitamin C, glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid, and aids in preventing skin discoloration, sheathing against sun damage, and moisturizing the skin. Moreover, it also contains olive extracts that help to soothe redness and inflammation, along with arnica extracts that help to increase human subcutaneous preadipocytes. On top of that, its users recommend its usage in smoothening bumpy skin, curbing itching, and dissociating tan from the skin, too. So, why wait? Snag the product now!

    Pros
    • Great for rough skin
    • Tightens open pores
    • Helps fight blemishes
    • Allergen-free
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • Best Cruelty-free Lotion

    Glycolix Elite Replenix 15% Body Lotion

    Glycolix Elite Replenix 15% Body Lotion
  • This paraben and gluten-free body lotion is best to cure dry skin and acne-prone skin. It is a highly hydrating formula that repairs your skin and heals blemishes. Glycolix Elite Replenix 15% Glycolic Acid Body Lotion will be a great purchase if you face pigmentation and sensitivity issues. This lotion contains a rich blend of antioxidants that makes sure you achieve a softer, smoother skin tone.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Unscented
    • Exfoliating
    • Moisturizing
    Cons
    • A little expensive

    Now that you have seen our product recommendations for the best glycolic acid lotions, glance through our buying guide to make an informed purchasing decision.

    How to Choose the Best Glycolic Acid Lotions?

    Here are the factors to consider before getting your hands on the best glycolic acid lotion - 

    Skin Type

    The first and foremost thing to keep in mind before buying a glycolic acid lotion is to analyze your skin type. For sensitive, oily, and extremely dry skin, choose a lotion that helps address your specific skin concern while also helping to reduce the appearance of aging signs like fine lines and wrinkles. Also, oily skin types should avoid sticky formulas that leave behind residues. At the same time, dry skin types benefit from hydrating and moisturizing formulas. 

    Ingredients

    It’s advisable to invest in dermatologically-tested glycolic acid lotions that don't contain harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. Instead, choose the ones with potent ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, vitamin E, and niacinamide that work well with glycolic acid. 

    Fragrance

    If you have acne-prone or sensitive skin, it's best to stay away from products with artificial fragrances. Note, that glycolic acid lotions with added scents can dehydrate the skin and accelerate the aging process.

    How to Use Glycolic Acid Lotions?

    Here are easy and simple ways to use glycolic acid lotions - 

    Step 1: Cleanse your skin thoroughly using a gentle body or face wash. 

    Step 2: Apply a pea-sized amount of glycolic acid lotion on your dampened skin in the evening or at night.

    Step 3: Massage well and wait for the lotion to get completely absorbed into your skin. 

    Step 4: Apply moisturizer to finalize your skincare routine. 

    Got your hands on the best glycolic acid lotion? You can thank us later! Consistent use of the above-mentioned products will give your skin a revival. Note, that our editor’s favorite lotion — the Glytone Exfoliating Body Lotion heals, cures, and nourishes your skin with little to no side effects. However, it is always advised to do a patch test before applying it on the face. Let us know which one is making its way into your cart, in the comments section below. Happy shopping!

    Disclaimer: This article contains sponsored links and the content is created by Pinkvilla. We, at Pinkvilla, curate products only after detailed research based on shopping trends, product ratings, and honest customer reviews. Our aim is to make your shopping experience convenient and worth every penny. Happy shopping!

    FAQ's

    What percentage of glycolic acid is effective?
    8 percent to 30 percent of glycolic acid is considered normal and effective for at-home skincare use.
    Can I use 10% glycolic acid daily?
    Since 10% glycolic acid is of low concentration, it is considered safe to use daily.
    Does glycolic acid lighten skin?
    Glycolic acid is ideal to improve skin radiance and luminosity.
    What happens if you use too much glycolic acid?
    You may experience excessive skin irritation, redness, and in some cases, over-drying.
    What can you not mix with glycolic acid?
    Glycolic acid belongs to the AHA family which also includes salicylic and lactic acids. These acids should never be mixed with vitamin C as they make the formulation unstable and disturb the pH balance.
    Can glycolic acid lotion help with acne?
    Glycolic acid lotions are effective in reducing acne due to their ability to unclog pores and reduce the formation of comedones — whiteheads and blackheads.
    How often should I use glycolic acid lotion?
    You can use 1-2 % glycolic acid lotion daily for effective results.
    Should I use glycolic acid lotion in the morning or at night?
    Glycolic acid can cause photosensitivity, which is why it is best to use any product containing the same at night.
    Can I use glycolic acid lotion with other skincare products?
    Yes, you can use glycolic acid lotion with other skincare products, as it helps increase their effects on the skin.
    Is glycolic acid lotion safe for all skin types?
    Yes, glycolic acid lotions are safe to be used on all skin types, however, people with sensitive skin must do a patch test to check for any redness, irritation, or allergic reaction before including them in their skincare routine.
    Can pregnant or breastfeeding women use glycolic acid lotion?
    It is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women to use glycolic acid lotion, however, it is best to consult your dermatologist before using one.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Our certified skincare expert, Anoushka believes that the benefits of using the best glycolic acid lotions can be life-changing. According to her, these lotions take you a step closer to achieving youthful and clearer-looking skin. To acquaint you further, she went ahead to curate an exclusive list of the 7 best glycolic acid lotions. From this list, Glytone Exfoliating Body Lotion suits her skin type the best. The product nourishes and improves the texture of her skin and soothes cracked heels and elbows. So, for all those who wish to reap the benefits, take some serious notes from Anoushka and her extensive research. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More