Gohara namechecks glycolic acid as "one of the least irritating and most effective" of all the exfoliating acids. "I love it for general skin health or to target unwanted lines, acne or hyperpigmentation," she says.
As you may have guessed from the name, lactic acid is derived from milk. One of the things that makes it such a popular skin care ingredient is that it exfoliates and hydrates at the same time. And, much like glycolic acid, it's gentle — and "great for those with sensitive skin issues." If acids are something you've always steered clear of, you may want to give this one a try, as Lorencin notes that it has "very minimal to no side effects." Get ready for a "glowing and radiant complexion!"
Though it's something you might notice from your favorite sodas (like Diet Coke), citric acid is also quite popular as a skin care ingredient. "Citric acids are alpha hydroxy acids that are derived from citrus," says board-certified celebrity dermatologist Dr. Anna Guanche. "They exfoliate and renew the skin and in higher percentages, they can be effective as a peel."
You may have heard the term "mandelic acid" popping up every now and then. As with lactic, citric and glycolic acids, it's an alpha hydroxy acid, this time derived from almonds. "It's gaining popularity as a glycolic stand-in," says Gohara.
Though we tend to associate the term "acid" with exfoliants, hyaluronic acid is actually a humectant moisturizer. Gohara says that it's naturally present in skin, though your body produces less as you age. "It's wonderful at plumping the skin," says Gohara. "In fact, many fillers are made with this." She adds that it's great for adding smoothness and brightness to skin. "I won't leave the house without putting it on topically," she declares.
Another bonus? "It almost never causes an allergic reaction," Guanche says. "I can't think of a single side effect to report."
