7 Best Glycolic Acid Serums for Acne Scars in 2026

When selecting a glycolic acid serum for acne scars, you need to take into account factors like acid concentration, additional ingredients, and how your skin reacts over time. These serums often contain 10% glycolic or lactic acids that gently exfoliate, promoting cell turnover and brightening hyperpigmentation. Some formulations include brightening agents like vitamin C or soothing components like hyaluronic acid, which can enhance results. However, effectiveness varies, and a consistent routine with sun protection remains essential. Curious about which product best suits your skin concerns?

Advanced Clinicals Glycolic and Lactic Acid Facial Exfoliant Serum

If you want a gentle but effective exfoliating serum, the Advanced Clinicals Glycolic and Lactic Acid Facial Exfoliant Serum might be just what you need. This light gel uses 10% glycolic and lactic acids. These acids help remove dead skin cells. When dead skin is gone, your skin looks smoother and brighter.

The serum also has ingredients like licorice root and fruit acids. These soothe your skin and make it look more radiant. Hyaluronic acid adds extra hydration, so your skin stays moist and soft. This product works well for most skin types. It is best used at night. It helps your skin renew itself without feeling heavy or greasy.

Some people find this serum mild but see good results over time. It’s a good choice if you want to improve your skin’s texture and brightness gradually.

Who Should Use It: People who want a gentle exfoliant that makes skin look clearer, brighter, and more hydrated.

Pros:

• Uses 10% glycolic and lactic acids for gentle exfoliation
• Contains soothing ingredients like licorice root and fruit acids
• Light gel absorbs quickly and mixes easily with other skincare

Cons:

• Might be too mild for serious skin issues like deep dark spots
• Some people may feel irritation or sensitivity, especially if they react to fragrances or acids
• Needs regular use for several weeks to see noticeable changes

This serum can help your skin feel smoother and brighter. Just use it at night, and be patient as your skin improves.

Vitamin C Serum for Face with Collagen, Brightening & Anti-Aging

A Vitamin C serum with collagen is a good choice if you want to brighten your skin and fight aging. This serum deeply hydrates your face, making your skin look fuller and glowing. Vitamin C helps fade dullness and evens out skin tone. Collagen adds firmness, which can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps clear up dark spots and blemishes, giving you clearer, younger-looking skin. The serum is lightweight and absorbs quickly, so it’s good for daily use on your face and neck. Some people might notice a slight smell, but with regular use, you can see improvements in brightness, firmness, and clarity in just a few days or weeks.

Best For: People who want an affordable, vegan serum that brightens skin, reduces aging signs, and improves skin texture with hydration and firming effects.

Pros:

• Moisturizes deeply, making your skin look full and radiant
• Contains good ingredients like Vitamin C and Collagen to reduce fine lines and dark spots
• Light and quick to absorb, perfect for daily use on face and neck

Cons:

• Some people smell a slight odor, like nicotine
• Results can vary based on your skin type and how often you use it
• Price or packaging might not feel fancy enough for some users who want luxury skincare

Good Molecules Brightening Serum with Hyaluronic Acid and Beta Arbutin

The Good Molecules Brightening Serum with Hyaluronic Acid and Beta Arbutin is a simple and gentle product. It helps fade dark spots, reduce uneven skin, and add moisture. The serum is light and easy to put on. It mixes beta arbutin, which makes dark spots lighter by stopping extra melanin, with hyaluronic acid that keeps skin moist and soft. It works well for all skin types, even sensitive skin. You can use a few drops in the morning and at night. Some people see improvements quickly, like brighter skin and fewer dark patches. Keep using it regularly for the best results.

Best for: people who want a gentle serum to brighten skin, fade dark spots, and keep skin hydrated with no irritation.

Pros:

• Light and thin, good for all skin types.
• Has strong ingredients like beta arbutin and hyaluronic acid that brighten and add moisture.
• Many users notice clearer skin, fewer dark spots, and a fresh glow within days of using it.

Cons:

• Some hope for faster or stronger results.
• The bottle might seem small for the price if you want long use.
• The price has gone up a little, but many still find it affordable compared to other products.

QRxLabs Glycolic Acid Toner with Witch Hazel & Pomegranate

The QRxLabs Glycolic Acid Toner with Witch Hazel and Pomegranate is a gentle product that helps improve your skin. It can make your skin feel smoother, reduce scars, and brighten your face. It contains 10% of a mix of glycolic and lactic acids, which remove dead skin cells and even out your skin tone. It also has natural extracts like pomegranate and Ginkgo Biloba. These help fight free radicals and support collagen, keeping your skin firm. Plus, it has ingredients like Hydrolyzed Rice Protein and Sodium PCA that hydrate and soothe your skin. You can use this toner every day to help make your skin look brighter and clearer. Some people might feel a bit of a sting or see residue, especially if they use it too often or with other exfoliating products.

Best For: People who want a gentle way to exfoliate. It helps brighten the skin, improve texture, and reduce signs of aging without hurting the skin.

Pros:

• Has a balanced 10% mix of glycolic and lactic acids for effective exfoliation.
• Contains plant extracts like Pomegranate and Ginkgo Biloba that fight free radicals and boost collagen.
• Includes hydrating ingredients like Hydrolyzed Rice Protein and Sodium PCA to calm and moisturize the skin.

Cons:

• Some people may feel a slight sting or see some residue.
• The bottle might spill or crystals can form, so you might want to transfer the toner to another container.
• It works differently on each skin type; those with very sensitive skin may find it mildly irritating.

This toner is good for anyone looking for a gentle, effective way to make their skin smoother and brighter. Use it regularly for best results.

Advanced Clinicals Glycolic Acid & Lactic Acid Facial Serum (1.75 FL Oz)

If you want a serum that helps with uneven skin tone, dark spots, or rough patches, the Advanced Clinicals Glycolic Acid & Lactic Acid Facial Serum might be a good choice. It has 10% glycolic acid, along with lactic acid, salicylic acid, licorice root, and fruit acids. These ingredients work together to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth skin texture, and brighten dull areas. The exfoliants also help reduce the size of pores and fine lines, giving your skin a fresh look. The serum feels like a light gel that absorbs quickly, so you can use it at night before bed. Some people see visible changes after a few weeks. Others may find it a little too strong or get slight irritation, especially if they have sensitive skin.

Best For: People who want to improve uneven skin tone, dark spots, and rough skin. Especially good for those with normal, oily, or resilient skin types.

Pros:

• Combines different acids and ingredients to clean, brighten, and smooth skin effectively.
• Light gel formula absorbs fast and feels comfortable on the skin.
• Comes in a big 1.75 oz bottle, so you can use it often. Tested by dermatologists for safety and quality.

Cons:

• May cause irritation or redness for sensitive skin.
• Some people find the scent too strong or unpleasant.
• Results can vary. Some may see little change or find it too harsh for their skin.

Naturium Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Gel 10

Looking for a gentle but effective way to smooth your skin? The Naturium Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Gel 10% might be just what you need. It has 10% glycolic acid and natural fruit acids. These help remove dead skin cells and boost collagen, which makes your skin look brighter and softer. The gel is light and friendly for many skin types. You can use it every day or only on certain spots. After cleansing your face, apply the gel and then put on your moisturizer. It helps your skin look smoother and glowier, without the roughness of scrubs. Some people see a difference in their skin’s texture, but be careful not to use too much or too often. Too much can irritate your skin. It’s a good, affordable choice for skin renewal.

Best For: People who want a gentle way to improve skin texture, brighten their face, and fade acne scars or uneven tone.

Pros:

• Contains 10% glycolic acid and natural fruit acids to help exfoliate and support collagen.
• Works well for many skin types, including sensitive, dry, acne-prone, and combo skin.
• Can be used in different ways, like all-over or on specific spots. It feels light and not harsh.

Cons:

• Using too much or too often can cause irritation or make your skin more sensitive.
• Be careful if you use it with other strong ingredients like retinol or acids.
• Don’t use it every day; limit to twice a week to prevent irritation.

QRxLabs Glycolic + Salicylic Acid Acne Control Pads

When you have stubborn acne or scars that won’t go away, QRxLabs Glycolic + Salicylic Acid Acne Control Pads can help. These pads scrub away dead skin and clear out pores. They contain 10% glycolic acid and 2% salicylic acid. These ingredients break down buildup inside your pores and stop new pimples from forming.

The pads also include calming ingredients like allantoin and vitamins B5, C, and E. Plus, they have green tea and calendula to help soothe your skin. Many people see improvements in a few weeks. They get fewer pimples and their scars look less noticeable.

But be careful if your skin is sensitive. The acids can cause redness or irritation. It’s best to start slow and see how your skin reacts. Some people find that the pads leave a sticky feeling, which can be annoying during the day or bedtime. Also, these pads can be more expensive, so don’t overuse them.

Best For: People with moderate to severe acne. If you have stubborn breakouts or scars, these pads can help clarify your skin.

Pros:

• Cleans pores deeply with glycolic and salicylic acids
• Soothes skin with ingredients like allantoin and antioxidants
• Shows clear results in a few weeks, like fewer pimples and brighter skin

Cons:

• Can irritate sensitive skin
• May leave a sticky residue
• Might cost more and be wasteful if overused

Factors to Consider When Choosing Glycolic Acid Serums for Acne Scars

When choosing a glycolic acid serum for your acne scars, you’ll want to evaluate how well it matches your skin type and the strength of its active ingredients, since a higher concentration isn’t always better for sensitive skin. It’s also important to look at the formulation and extra ingredients, like soothing botanicals or hydrating agents, which can influence how your skin reacts over time. Finally, pay attention to application tips and perform patch tests, as these steps help prevent irritation and ensure you pick a product suited to your skin’s specific needs.

Skin Type Compatibility

Choosing the right glycolic acid serum for your skin is important. Skin types react differently to exfoliants. If you have oily or combination skin, look for serums that help reduce oil and clear pores. But be careful—some formulas might cause irritation if they are too strong.

If your skin is sensitive, pick products with lower glycolic acid. Add soothing ingredients like aloe vera or ceramides to help prevent irritation.

For dry skin, choose serums that contain moisture-boosting ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These help keep your skin from becoming too dry or flaky.

Remember, everyone’s skin is different. Do a patch test first. Apply a small amount of serum on your skin and wait a day or two. If no irritation appears, it should be safe to use.

Pick a serum that matches your skin’s needs. This will give you the best results and keep your skin healthy.

Concentration & Strength

Choosing the right glycolic acid strength is important. It affects how well the treatment works and how gentle it is on your skin. Higher amounts, like 10% or more, work faster and peel more deeply. But they can also cause irritation if your skin is sensitive. Lower amounts, such as 5% or less, are gentler. They won’t cause as much redness or peeling, but you might need to use them longer to see good results on scars. A good middle ground is around 8-10%. This strength helps your skin renew faster without being too harsh. It’s best to start with a lower percentage. See how your skin reacts. If it handles it well, you can slowly use a slightly higher strength. Being careful can help you avoid side effects while making your skin smoother and clearer.

Formulation & Additional Ingredients

A good glycolic acid serum can help improve acne scars. Pick a formula with a pH between 3.0 and 4.0. This keeps the acid effective but gentle on your skin. Adding salicylic acid can help clean inside your pores and reduce swelling. Soothing ingredients like aloe vera or ferulic acid can help prevent irritation. Use hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to stop dryness and help your skin heal. Brightening ingredients like vitamin C or licorice root extract can make scars less visible by boosting collagen and reducing dark spots. Choosing the right ingredients makes your skincare gentle, effective, and comfortable.

Application & Usage Tips

Glycolic acid serums can help with acne scars, but you need to use them the right way. First, apply a small, even layer to clean, dry skin. It’s best to do this at night so your skin can rest and recover. Wait a few minutes before putting on other skincare products. Start with a lower strength, like 5-10%, to see how your skin reacts. Gradually, you can use higher strengths as your skin gets used to it. Use the serum 2-3 times a week at first. When your skin adjusts, you can use it more often. Always put on a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day. Glycolic acid makes your skin more sensitive to the sun and can cause dark spots. Using it properly keeps your skin safe and helps it look better.

Sensitivity & Patch Testing

When choosing a glycolic acid serum for acne scars, it’s smart to check how your skin reacts first. Do a patch test before using the serum all over your face. Take a small amount and put it on a quiet spot, like behind your ear or on your inner arm. Wait for 24 to 48 hours. Look for redness, itching, or any signs your skin doesn’t like it.

If your skin is sensitive, start with a low strength, like 5%. This helps lower your chances of irritation. Keep an eye on your skin during this time. If you feel burning, itching, or see redness, stop using the serum right away. If needed, ask a dermatologist for help.

Don’t use too many exfoliating products at once. Use soothing creams to protect your skin’s barrier. Doing this small test can save your skin from trouble. It also helps you enjoy the benefits of glycolic acid safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Glycolic Acid Serums Cause Skin Irritation or Sensitivity?

Glycolic acid serums can cause skin irritation or sensitivity if you’re not careful. You might experience redness, peeling, or stinging, especially if you have sensitive skin or overuse the product. Always do a patch test first.

How Long Does It Typically Take to See Results?

You can usually expect to see noticeable improvements in your skin within 4 to 6 weeks of consistent glycolic acid use. Stick with it, and you’ll likely notice smoother, clearer skin as new cells regenerate.

Are Glycolic Acid Serums Safe for All Skin Types?

You should know that glycolic acid serums are generally safe, but they might cause irritation or dryness for sensitive skin. Always patch-test first, start with lower concentrations, and consult a dermatologist if you have concerns or specific skin conditions.

Should I Use Sunscreen Daily When Using These Serums?

You should use sunscreen daily when using glycolic acid serums because they increase your skin’s sensitivity to UV rays. Protect your skin by applying broad-spectrum SPF moisturizer every morning, especially if you plan to be outdoors.

How Often Should I Incorporate Glycolic Acid Into My Skincare Routine?

You should incorporate glycolic acid into your routine gradually, starting 2-3 times a week. As your skin tolerates it, increase usage to daily if desired, but always pay attention to how your skin reacts and moisturize well.

Last update on 2026-01-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API