When it comes to skincare acids, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. With so many options—salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and more—it’s important to understand what each one does and how it benefits your skin. Whether you’re battling acne, dullness, wrinkles, or dryness, this cheat sheet will help you navigate the world of skincare acids like a pro!
🧪 Salicylic Acid: The Acne Fighter
Best for oily, acne-prone skin
Exfoliates deep into pores, removing excess oil & debris
Reduces blackheads, whiteheads, and breakouts
Improves skin texture
💡 Tip: Use it in spot treatments or cleansers for gentle daily exfoliation.
💧 Hyaluronic Acid: The Hydration Hero
A powerful humectant that attracts moisture
Helps plump fine lines and wrinkles
Suitable for all skin types, especially dry skin
Provides long-lasting hydration
💡 Tip: Always apply on damp skin and follow with a moisturizer to lock in hydration.
🌟 Glycolic Acid: The Glow Booster
An AHA that resurfaces and smooths skin
Brightens dull, tired skin
Helps with fine lines and hyperpigmentation
Improves skin texture
💡 Tip: Start with a lower percentage (5–10%) if you’re new to exfoliation.
🥛 Lactic Acid: The Gentle Exfoliator
A mild AHA that exfoliates without irritation
Provides hydration while improving skin tone
Ideal for sensitive & dry skin
Helps fade dark spots and fine lines
💡 Tip: Great for those new to chemical exfoliation—it’s gentler than glycolic acid!
🌿 Mandelic Acid: The Sensitive Skin Savior
A gentle AHA with antibacterial properties
Helps with acne, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles
Best for sensitive skin and deeper skin tones
Improves skin texture and tone
💡 Tip: If glycolic acid is too strong for you, mandelic acid is a great alternative.
🔥 Azelaic Acid: The Redness Reducer
Fights acne and inflammation
Reduces redness and rosacea
Helps fade hyperpigmentation and acne scars
Smooths skin texture
💡 Tip: Works well in combination with niacinamide for extra calming effects.
🛡️ Ferulic Acid: The Antioxidant Protector
A powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals
Protects skin from UV damage and pollution
Enhances the effectiveness of Vitamin C and E
Brightens and evens out skin tone
💡 Tip: Look for serums that combine ferulic acid with vitamin C for a stronger antioxidant boost.
🍊 Kojic Acid: The Hyperpigmentation Eraser
Reduces dark spots and discoloration
Brightens and evens skin tone
Often used for melasma and sun spots
Works well with Vitamin C and AHAs
💡 Tip: Use SPF religiously, as kojic acid can make skin more sensitive to the sun.
🌞 L-Ascorbic Acid: The Vitamin C Superstar
A potent antioxidant that brightens skin
Helps fade hyperpigmentation and acne scars
Boosts collagen production, reducing wrinkles
Protects skin from environmental damage
💡 Tip: Use in the morning under SPF for maximum protection and glow!
Which Acid Should You Choose? 🤔
✔ Acne & clogged pores? → Salicylic acid, Azelaic acid
✔ Dry or sensitive skin? → Lactic acid, Mandelic acid, Hyaluronic acid
✔ Hyperpigmentation & dark spots? → Kojic acid, Glycolic acid, L-Ascorbic acid
✔ Anti-aging & fine lines? → Ferulic acid, Glycolic acid, Lactic acid
✔ Dull skin? → Glycolic acid, L-Ascorbic acid, Ferulic acid
Using the right acid for your skin type can transform your routine, giving you clearer, brighter, and healthier skin!
🌟 Just remember to introduce acids slowly and always wear sunscreen to protect your skin.
💬 Which skincare acid is your favorite? Let’s chat in the comments! 👇💖
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