8 best aha products

• NON-ABRASIVE LEAVE-ON EXFOLIATOR: gently removes dull skin, naturally revealing the radiance hidden underneath. Revitalizes the skin's surface and helps keep skin hydrated by removing dead cells and preparing the skin's surface to receive moisture.
• Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant with Glycolic Acid, Chamomile, and Green Tea can help minimize the look of discolorations and age spots, and with consistent use can increase skin's firmness. Use after cleanser and toner twice daily.
• With antioxidants from green tea and other natural ingredients, and the soothing power of chamomile, plus the exfoliating benefits of glycolic acid, this unique lightweight gel soothes as it revitalizes your skin leaving it soft, smooth, and radiant.
• Using a chemical exfoliator is gentler on the delicate skin of the face & neck than an abrasive face scrub, which can cause micro-tears. An AHA face exfoliator delivers hydration and can reach the deeper, built up layers of dead skin that scrubs don't.
• Paula's Choice Skincare makes products that work. No fragrance, no parabens, no fluff. Just effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts.

User questions & answers

Question:	Is this product meant to be used every night? If not then how frequent should it be used
Answer:	I use mine every night.
Question:	I know aha increase the chance of getting sunburn, but does it also increase the chances of tanning? or just sunburning
Answer:	K so both tanning and burning are signs of sun damage to the skin. Aha's increase your sensitivity to the sun. You should be wearing sunblock whole using ahas and staying out of the sun and should therefore not tan or burn. If you're planning on tanning while using this its not the product for you.
Question:	How long does a bottle of this last with daily use
Answer:	Practically forever. It takes such a small amount that even using twice a day, you won't have to buy a new bottle for a very long time.
Question:	What is the difference between this AHA gel and the Paula's Choice BHA Gel
Answer:	The main difference between alpha and beta hydroxy acids stems from the fact that AHAs are water-soluble and BHAs are lipid--oil--soluble. This means that AHAs are more effective at exfoliating damaged, dry skin while BHAs are better able to penetrate oily, blemished skin and pores.

Product features

About Paula

Skin care visionary Paula Begoun founded our company with one goal—help women uncover the truth about skin care. Over 35 years ago, she set out to discover which products would actually transform skin’s appearance and health and which were just fluff. True to that legacy, Paula’s Choice Skincare formulates effective products rooted in scientific research and backed by real results.

Beauty Begins with Truth

Since 1995 we’ve been questioning ingredients, following the facts and standing up for the consumer, because you deserve products that work exactly as they claim to. We do the research and formulate smart, efficacious products that transform skin of all ages and types for the better.

Smart Beauty Philosophy

You deserve smart skin care choices—minus all the hype. Our philosophy? Smart Beauty. Because the products you use should work and be good for your skin, no exceptions. Our formulas are effective, safe and backed by cited research we share with you along the way.

Smart. Safe. Effective. Fragrance-free. Cruelty-free. Non-Irritating. Made in the USA.

• An exfoliating cleaning gel
• Excellent for normal to oily, oily, and problem skin types
• Thoroughly removes excess oil, surface impurities, and make-up
• Made with exfoliating Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids and natural enzymes
• Paraben-free, cruelty-free, made in the USA, contains natural ingredients

User questions & answers

Question:	Will the ingredient "SD alcohol 40" cause dryness
Answer:	I bought thiis for myself but by mistake because it is for oily skin. It is a bit drying so my teenagers are using it. I love the Rays products and use their collagen serum.
Question:	Can someone please provide the full ingredients list
Answer:	G107 Active Cleansing Gel (with AHA & BHA) Active Cleansing Gel (with AHA & BHA) is a deep cleansing (oil free) formula that thoroughly removes excess oil, surface impurities and make-up. It helps to exfoliate the dead cells thanks to Alpha and Beta Hydroxy acids, and natural enzymes. Active Cleansing Gel is recommended for normal-tooily, oily, and problem skin types. Directions: Apply with moistened hands, gently lather, then rinse. Follow with appropriate toner and moisturizer. Contains: Aloe Vera Gel, Decyl Polyglucose, Glycolic Acid-7% (partially neutralized for balanced pH), Salicylic Acid, Cocomidopropyl Betaine, Dimethicone, Yeast Extract (Vitamin B), Sodium PCA, Glycerin, SD Alcohol 40, Lactic Acid, Watercress Extract, Papain, Bromelain, Lavender Extract, Soap Wort Extract, Camphor, Sodium Hydroxide, Guar Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate. Caution: Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Keep out of reach of children. Use only as directed.

Product features

RAYA Active Facial Cleansing Gel

Active Cleansing Gel (with AHA & BHA) is made up of a deep cleansing, oil-free formula that thoroughly removes excess oil, surface impurities, and make-up. It helps exfoliates dead cells, due to Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids and natural enzymes. Active Cleansing Gel is recommended for normal-to-oily, oily, and problem skin types. Active Facial Cleansing Gel With AHA & BHA (G-107) | RAYA

• Daily peeling serum with Glycolic Acid AHA
• Smoothly exfoliates skin leaving it smooth and healthy
• Revitalizes and firms the skin, naturally and gently lifting away dried up and dead skin cells
• Safe to use every day: mild formulation, dermatologically tested
• Moisturizing and skin protection with soothing and nourishing ingredients

User questions & answers

Question:	Can you use this on the body
Answer:	Uh, yes. Unless you suddenly get a bad reaction, then stop.
Question:	would this help with comedomes or tiny clogged pores
Answer:	I'm no dermatologist, but part of helping with clogged pores is a healthy amount of exfoliation and cell turnover. So far, in my experience, this product has aided me in gentle overnight turnover. But if you have persistent acne and skin troubles, perhaps get a professional opinion first.
Question:	How would i implement this with using hada labo foaming cleanser, hada labo lotion, drunk elephant c-serum and hydraquinone
Answer:	Usually for skincare, when you use actives like AHA, BHA or Vit C, the order in which you apply the products is dependent on the pH of the product (usually low pH first, then higher). After cleansing, it is best to use a pH balancing toner to bring your face to a lower pH (healthy skin is naturally slightly lower). Fortunately, for you, the hada labo brands are usually low pH, so you should be okay. Based on your list, I would recommend something this: cleanser > vit c (wait 10-15 minutes) > aha (wait 10-15 minutes) > hydroquinone > lotionBut just as a precaution, that is A LOT of actives. Both AHA and Vit C are chemical exfoliants. You might want to consider using them on separate days to make sure your skin tolerates it well. Sometimes if you use too much chemical exfoliants, it will dry out your skin or make it too sensitive. Always make sure to moisturize. Sometime people get too excited about using active ingredients and they forget that moisture is also a very important component in skin health. Personally, I think the hada labo lotion will not be enough. Also, I recommend that you be careful about what actives you mix together. They are all very effective ingredients individually, but sometimes they might not work as well together or be very damaging. The AHA + hydroquinone will increase your skin sensitivity drastically, so sunscreen is very important. Also, as a personal preference, I avoid hydroquinone, because it's known to cause irreversible damage in some individuals if not used properly.
Question:	How do you use this in your daily routine
Answer:	Because it's a pretty strong acid serum, I don't use it more than 3 times a week. I usually use it in my night time routine after I have washed and toned my face. After applying and massaging into my skin, I wait 15 minutes to allow for proper absorption. When the times up, I either move to the next serum/creme or just put on my moisturizer. It's worked wonders for my skins texture.

Product features

Daily Peeling Serum

Daily peeling serum that takes care of dead skin cells that cause skin trouble. The ingredients in 8% AHA effectively eliminate the dead skin cells on damaged skin.

How to Use?

Every day after toner, take an appropriate amount of the serum and apply all over the face, avoiding the area around the eyes. It's recommended to use the backside of the cotton pad you used for your toner to wipe your face lightly.

Product description

lotion

Product description

BrighterDays Dark Spot 8% AHA Polish is an exfoliating scrub that doubles as a polish and treatment mask, featuring a powerful blend of Alpha Hydroxy Acids and brightening ingredients designed to smooth and buff your skin. After the first use, your skin will look smoother and brighter. With regular use, the scrub will also improve the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone! Features ClearTone Advanced Technology, a blend of 6 ingredients that work synergistically to reveal a healthier and more even-looking complexion. What is ClearTone Advanced Technology? Learn more here. Who Should Use Anyone looking to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, dark spots, rough texture, dull skin and clogged pores. How It Looks/Smells/Feels This product has the texture of a scrub for the ultimate exfoliating and smoothing polish, is light yellow in color with orange beads, and smells like sweet papaya. *Any color changes from light yellow to golden yellow/tan that may appear are normal due to the Vitamin C content and exposure to light, water and air.

• ABOUT THE PRODUCT: Featuring ClearTone Advanced Technology, the Urban Skin Rx BrighterDays Dark Spot 8% AHA Polish features a powerful blend of Alpha Hydroxy Acids and brightening ingredients designed to smooth and buff your skin. This multi-tasking polish and treatment mask has the texture of a scrub for the ultimate exfoliating and smoothing experience. It is light yellow in color with orange beads and smells like sweet papaya.
• WHY YOU NEED THIS: Formulated with Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Papaya Extract and L-Ascorbic Acid, BrighterDays Dark Spot 8% AHA Polish improves the appearance of blemishes and aging skin, reduces the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone and boosts skin's moisture levels. Ideal for those looking to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, dark spots, rough texture, dull skin and clogged pores.
• HOW TO USE: After cleansing, dispense desired amount onto fingertips and gently massage onto damp skin in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes, avoiding the eye and lip areas. Leave on skin for up to 5 minutes. Rinse with warm water and pat skin dry. Follow with your favorite Urban Skin Rx serums and moisturizers. Can be used 2-3 times per week.
• CAREFULLY FORMULATED: This dual-action scrub is backed by our ClearTone Advanced Technology, a proprietary blend of 6 ingredients that work synergistically to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone. SUNBURN ALERT: This product contains an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that may increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun and particularly the possibility of sunburn. Use a sunscreen, wear protective clothing and limit sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterwards.
• ABOUT US: Urban Skin Rx, an unparalleled line of skincare products for diverse skin tones, was developed by Rachel Roff, a highly successful licensed aesthetician, laser technician and founder of one of the country's first medspa and laser centers specializing in darker skin tones. After noticing an inequality in diversity within the skincare industry, she’s spent years formulating high-performance products designed to address the most common concerns of people with melanin-rich skin.

User questions & answers

Question:	Can it be used around eyes
Answer:	It is not recommended due to harsh acids and it could get inside of your eyes... but I did use it around eyes at my own risk
Question:	How often to you use this? Morning? Night? Both
Answer:	Hi, this is a night gel. I've been using it for about 8 years and it was suggested to me by a facialist for acne but is also used for fine line a wrinkle management. There is no SPF in this and has glycolic acid base so you should never wear it for day/sun. They make a day one but I don't care for the smell. Hope that's helpful :)
Question:	Do these products show an expiration date
Answer:	It doesn't show expiration date on my bottle. But to be honest I still have it and still use it🙈. I know it's probably expired by now, but it still works great, I don't get any bad reaction and my skin were glowing in the morning. I think I have this product for over 3 years now.
Question:	What % of AHA is this
Answer:	about 25% of AHA in this product

• Supports skin renewal - Our 7% Glycolic AHA Toner combines the exfoliating benefits of Glycolic Acid with powerful fruit acids to support the skin’s natural renewal process. This face toner is designed to refine the skin's texture without irritation or dryness, while decreasing the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and dehydration. This hydrating toner & exfoliant solution balances and preps your skin to better absorb serums and moisturizers.
• Skin brightening benefits - Brighten the appearance of uneven and dull tone with this face toner infused with Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C and soothing botanicals. Our clarifying & smoothing toner brightens, while reducing the look of dark spots, pores & hyperpigmentation. Powered by Vitamin C, a strong antioxidant that tones and tightens the appearance of skin, while supporting healthy collagen production and boosts radiance giving your skin a natural glow and helping balancing & tightening.
• Pore minimizer - Our safe liquid skin toner helps resurfacing uneven texture, while providing a smooth complexion. Shrink the look of enlarged pores & clogged pores, blackhead & whitehead problems. With the power of our advanced, purifying & clean blend, get healthy & beautiful results. Glycolic Acid boosts cell turnover to exfoliate, unclog, clear & reduce dulling cells. Witch Hazel nourishes & treats the skin. This product will can make a great addition to your toning beauty care routine.
• Perfect for all skin types - Our alcohol free toner is mild & effective. It works great for men, women & all skin types including normal, dry, oily or combination. It’s also great for treating cystic & blemish prone skin, wrinkle and mature skin! Apply to a cotton round and swipe across cleansed skin, avoiding the eye area. May be applied daily for gentle exfoliation for supple & poreless results. For best results, we recommend applying this toner at night, following with an SPF during the day.

Product description

A potent and persuasive exfoliating treatment powered by 20% glycolic acid that optimizes cell renewal to energetically resurface and rejuvenate even severely dry and damaged skin letting a new softness, radiance and beautifully uniform tone emerge. This advanced formulation also hydrates with vitamin E and other effective emollients to soothe, soften and comfort. Pores appear smaller, lines and wrinkles reduced, roughness smoothed and texture enters a new age of refinement. Talk about bright ideas. Dermatologist tested. Hypoallergenic. Paraben-free.

Brand Story

For over 35 years, Dermatologic Cosmetic Laboratories (DCL) has been the global authority for all products that may be applied to skin.

User questions & answers

Question:	I just received my lotion. im not sure if i should wash off then apply moisturizer. or dont wash off lotion. please help
Answer:	Thanks so much. I thought since it was exfoliating product I need to scrub and wash off dead skin. Im not sure this is what I wanted. I have read this product has been reformulated at double the price. I would hope after years the company has found better ingredients and accounts for price hike. I will give this one a try. I already have amazing skincare but needed a exfoliating cleanser.
Question:	How many ounces in this bottle
Answer:	This new packaging only has 1.7 oz. This is the replacement product for the original that was 4 oz. in the plain white packaging. And, oh by the way, the price is the same as the 4 oz. I purchased to see if it was the same. It is and I won't purchase again.
Question:	Has anyone who used to use this product when it was affordable found a good alternative
Answer:	Yes, I found NeoStrata resurface Lotion Plus. 15 AHA. Not as strong as Dermatological, but it is fine considering One gets much more quantity for your money.. 6.8 fl. Oz. Hope this helps you. I also am very disappointed in the rise in price and cutting quantity of Dermatological. When I started using it I paid $15 for 8 Oz. Hope this helps you,

Product features

Aha resurfacing lotion 20 - intensive retexturizing treatment

A potent and persuasive exfoliating treatment powered by 20% glycolic acid that optimizes cell renewal to energetically resurface and rejuvenate even severely dry and damaged skin letting a new softness, radiance and beautifully uniform tone emerge. This advanced formulation also hydrates with vitamin E and other effective emollients to soothe, soften and comfort. Pores appear smaller, lines and wrinkles reduced, roughness smoothed and texture enters a new age of refinement. Talk about bright ideas.

Aha resurfacing lotion 20 - intensive retexturizing treatment

A potent and persuasive exfoliating treatment powered by 20% glycolic acid that optimizes cell renewal to energetically resurface and rejuvenate even severely dry and damaged skin letting a new softness, radiance and beautifully uniform tone emerge. This advanced formulation also hydrates with vitamin E and other effective emollients to soothe, soften and comfort. Pores appear smaller, lines and wrinkles reduced, roughness smoothed and texture enters a new age of refinement. Talk about bright ideas.

Aha resurfacing lotion 20 - intensive retexturizing treatment

A potent and persuasive exfoliating treatment powered by 20% glycolic acid that optimizes cell renewal to energetically resurface and rejuvenate even severely dry and damaged skin letting a new softness, radiance and beautifully uniform tone emerge. This advanced formulation also hydrates with vitamin E and other effective emollients to soothe, soften and comfort. Pores appear smaller, lines and wrinkles reduced, roughness smoothed and texture enters a new age of refinement. Talk about bright ideas.

Aha resurfacing lotion 20 - intensive retexturizing treatment

A potent and persuasive exfoliating treatment powered by 20% glycolic acid that optimizes cell renewal to energetically resurface and rejuvenate even severely dry and damaged skin letting a new softness, radiance and beautifully uniform tone emerge. This advanced formulation also hydrates with vitamin E and other effective emollients to soothe, soften and comfort. Pores appear smaller, lines and wrinkles reduced, roughness smoothed and texture enters a new age of refinement. Talk about bright ideas.

Additional information

20% Glycolic Acid supports healthy cell turnover, while deeply exfoliating potentially pore-clogging and complexion-dulling dry, dead skin cells, helping to smooth away roughness and create smaller-looking pores.

Expertly evens out skin tone to deliver a more uniform and luminous complexion.

Hyaluronic Acid and Jojoba help diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

Green Tea and Vitamin E soften and moisturize, while improving elasticity and delivering antioxidant protection.

Fruit acids complex enhances cell turnover, shed dead skin and boost elasticity.

Shea butter, Chamomile, and Aloe soothe, soften and calm irritation.

Ideal for the face, neck, chest, hands and body, and extra rough or dark spots such as elbows, knees, heels, and soles of feet.

How to use

Twice daily, get glowing by applying to clean, dry skin avoiding the eye area. Follow with moisturizer and sunscreen in the morning and moisturizer in the evening. We recommend starting your resurfacing journey with our AHA Resurfacing Lotion 8 and working up to our AHA Resurfacing Lotion 20 once skin acclimatizes to our active ingredients. Ideal for the face, neck, chest, hands and body, and extra rough or dark spots such as elbows, knees, heels, and soles of feet.

*Caution: For external use only. Keep out of reach of small children. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. If irritation develops, discontinue use and consult your physician.

Ingredients

Aqua, Glycolic Acid, Isopropyl Palmitate, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ammonium Hydroxide, Cetyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Sorbitan Stearate, Stearic Acid, Dimethicone, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Glycerin, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, Saccharum Officinarum Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon Fruit Extract, Acer Saccharum Sap Extract

User questions & answers

Question:	What is the shelf life of this product once its open? I'm considering buying the professional size for at-home use. Thank you
Answer:	I'm unsure of it's shelf life. However, I have never had an issue with the product and use it 2-4 times/week. Depending on frequency of use a tube lasts 4-6 months.
Question:	Is this repackaged murad aha/bha exfoliating cleanser? the old package didn't say hydration so i'm not sure if this is the same formula or not
Answer:	The last one I bought abot four months ago was packaged exactly like it.
Question:	What is different in the new version
Answer:	I don't really know.
Question:	Is this everyday cleanser
Answer:	I use it every other day

Product features

Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

Intensive triple action exfoliator with a proprietary blend of salicylic, lactic and glycolic acids polishes away dull, dry skin without irritation. Reveals smoother texture and a brighter, younger-looking complexion.

Salicylic, Lactic and Glycolic Acids

Provide gentle exfoliation. Help reveal softer, smoother skin and encourage cell turnover.

Jojoba Beads

Biodegradable; manually exfoliate and help remove dull, dry skin.

Formulated Without

Sulfates, Phthalates, Gluten, Mineral Oil, Formaldehyde, Oxybenzone, Petrolatum/Petroleum