Derms Always Recommend This Serum for Pigmentation, Dryness, Acne, and Wrinkles

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(Image credit: @sasha.mei)

If having a glowing, youthful complexion with improved fine lines, reduced discolouration and a smoother texture is way up there on your priority list, you've come to the right place. 

In case you didn't know already, there's a magical skincare ingredient out there that can do all that and then some. Seem too good to be true? According to dermatologists, it's not. This otherworldly ingredient, otherwise known as glycolic acid, is a chemical exfoliant AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid) that works almost as well as getting a professional facial. "It's a substance derived from sugar cane and is known for its exfoliating benefits," explains Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist. "It helps to get rid of dead skin cells and therefore brightens the skin."

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(Image credit: @stellasimona)

It also works even better when paired with certain other ingredients. "It can work well with niacinamide, which is soothing on the skin and helps to reduce sensitivity and irritation," Garshick says. "Similarly, it pairs well with hyaluronic acid to help boost moisture and reduce any potential dryness or irritation." Obviously, this all sounds good and dandy, but these ingredient pairings are especially key if you have sensitive skin. Chemical exfoliants can be drying and potentially irritating if you aren't used to them yet, so when selecting the right glycolic acid product for you, you'll want to make sure it has another moisturising agent in it.

There are so many ways to incorporate this super-effective ingredient into your routine, but we believe wholeheartedly in the power of a good serum. It's the best way to get the most bang for your buck when it comes to skincare products. If you're ready to take the plunge, find the best glycolic acid serums below.

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(Image credit: @sasha.mei)

1. Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum

2. Typology Glycolic Acid Serum

3. Pixi Overnight Glow Serum

4. Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Night Serum

5. Paula's Choice Resist Advanced Smoothing Treatment 10% AHA

6. Sunday Riley Good Genes Glycolic Acid Treatment

7. Murad Rapid Dark Spot Correcting Serum

8. SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight

9. Alpha-H Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment With Glycolic Acid

10. Kate Somerville Liquid ExfoliKate Triple Acid Resurfacing Treatment

11. L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Laser Ampoules 10% Glycolic Acid Peel

12. Medik8 Balance Moisturizer With Glycolic Acid Activator

Next up, I speak to dermatologists every day—these are the brands they always recommend.

Shawna Hudson
Associate Beauty Editor

Shawna Hudson has worked in editorial for over six years, with experience covering entertainment, fashion, culture, celebrities, and her favorite topic of all, beauty. She graduated from California State University, Fullerton, with a degree in journalism and has written for other publications such as Bustle, The Zoe Report, Byrdie, Elite Daily, Mane Addicts, and more. She is currently an associate beauty editor at Who What Wear and hopes to continue feeding her (completely out-of-control) beauty obsession as long as she can. Stay up to date on her latest finds on Instagram @shawnasimonee.