As Black people, we often experience hyperpigmentation and acne. While there are products available on the market that can address these issues, it is important to pay attention to the ingredients in our favorite beauty products, too. For instance, glycolic acid is a potent ingredient that can help even out our skin tone and treat breakouts by exfoliating away the dead skin cells.

“Glycolic acid is a chemical exfoliant derived from sugarcane,” Sasha Banner, a skincare trainer and licensed esthetician at Heyday Skincare, tells ESSENCE. “This acid falls under the AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) category and is known for its brightening and exfoliating properties.” 

Additionally, it’s good to know that glycolic acid works for all skin types. “It’s also really great for getting deep into your skin to increase hydration levels and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”
If you’re wanting to try this powerful acid but don’t know where to begin, below you’ll find 9 of our favorites for smoother, brighter skin.

01

01
Naturium The Smoother Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Wash

If you have rough and bumpy skin, this body wash with glycolic, tartaric, pyruvic, and lactic acid can remove dead skin cells. It exfoliates and hydrates your skin for a smoother texture.
Available at amazon.com

02

02
First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub

This particular body scrub is designed to deliver impressive results by combining a chemical peel with a microdermabrasion treatment. It also contains both glycolic and lactic acid to help unclog your pores and get rid of any rough bumps on your skin.
Available at amazon.com

03

03
Caudalie Vinoperfect Glycolic and AHAs Peel Mask

Upgrade your skincare routine with a 10 minute peel mask that gently exfoliates, refines, and renews your skin.
Available at amazon.com

04

04
Drunk Elephant T.L.C Glycolic Body Lotion

This Drunk Elephant lotion restores skin with shea butter, marula butter, electrolytes, and a blend of T.L.C. Framboo acids for even, replenished skin.
Available at sephora.com

05

05
Youth To The People Kombucha + 10% AHA Liquid Exfoliant

This overnight leave-on exfoliant helps revamp your skin’s texture, tone, and moisture with kombucha black tea ferment.
Available at sephora.com

06

06
Dermalogica Daily Glycolic Cleanser Face Wash

This cleanser multitasks by cleansing skin, removing buildup, and renewing tone.
Available at amazon.com

07

07
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Face Serum

This dermatologist-tested serum reduces wrinkles, resurfaces dead skin cells, and soothes with aloe vera.
Available at amazon.com

08

08
OffCourt Deep Cleansing Body Wash

Your man will love this sulfate-free body wash thanks to its superpower ingredients like glycolic and lactic acid to exfoliate, balance, and hydrate his skin.
Available at offcourt.com

09

09
Typology Exfoliating Serum

This vegan serum targets post-acne marks such as blackheads, blemishes, and dark spots.
Available at typology.com

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on the links we provide, we may receive compensation.