Glycolic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that's derived from sugarcane, can be found in all sorts of products, from toners to washes to at-home peels. But one of the easiest ways to incorproate this ingredient into your routine is with a cleanser. Though the best glycolic acid cleanser for you will depend on your skin type and formula preference (oil, cream, foam, et cetera), they all work to mildly exfoliate skin and promote a clearer, smoother complexion.
Each of the cleansers below stands out in its own unique way. You'll find an affordable, all natural formula, a Korean cleansing oil, a cleanser that doubles as a mask, and a few luxe splurges. Some are balanced out by other exfoliating ingredients, like salicylic acid, while others are super moisturizing. Scan this list to find the cleanser that feels best for you, but if you're new to using glycolic acid, start by using your cleanser of choice only a few times a week. As your skin becomes more accustomed to the exfoliant, you can increase your usage to every other day or daily, depending on your skin type.
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