Loreal glycolic acid before and after

Photo: Stocksy/Alexey Kuzma

Every so often, a product comes onto the market and it becomes an instant classic. Remember when Glossier Balm Dotcom ($12) came out? I certainly do, because it was so dang hard to get my hands on one. But the latest launch to immediately elevate itself to cult-fave beauty product status is not only really good, but it's also available at the drugstore. L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Serum ($23), which launched in October, 2019, has already skyrocketed to selling a bottle every minute in the United States.

The formulation was developed by dermatologists, and the 10-percent pure glycolic acid is enough to resurface skin the same way a chemical peel would... for a whole lot less than what it would cost you for a peel at a derm's office. The OG chemical exfoliant is lauded for its ability to improve skin's tone and texture, getting rid of discoloration as well as fine lines. Historically, though, getting your hands (and face) on a glycolic product that actually works would cost you a pretty penny, but considering the affordable price tag on this particular serum, it's no wonder that the masses have fallen in love with it at first sight. Board-certified dermatologist Dhaval Bhanusali, MD is also a fan, noting that in addition to having a powerful amount of glycolic, the serum also has hydrating components like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to balance things out.

Since glycolic acid helps remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin (the way all exfoliants, chemical and physical, are known to do), this highly-concentrated solution of the stuff clears the way for your other products to penetrate more deeply. This means that for the cost of one $23 bottle, you'll also be getting more bang for your buck on your pricier products, too. But one thing worth keeping in mind? "It's strong, so if you have sensitive skin or a darker skin tone, I'd proceed with a bit more caution," says Dr. Bhanusali, who warns that he's seen chemical burns in certain skin types using solutions that are 10 percent and higher concentrations. To be safe, he suggests spot treating a small area before slathering it all over your face.

The new glycolic serum is in good company alongside other derm-approved products by L'Oréal Paris, including L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($20), which was also selling a bottle a minute at this time last year. Pro tip: Using the two fan-fave serums together in the same routine is a great way to keep your skin happy and hydrated—and for these prices, your wallet will be happy, too.

To learn more about exfoliation (and exactly how you often you should be doing it) press play on the video below:

Already using a retinol in your routine? Here's what derms want you to know about pairing it with a glycolic. Plus, our favorite drugstore moisturizers to seal in all that active ingredient goodness. 

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At BestProducts.com, we love a product that can bless you with professional results at an accessible price point. That’s why we immediately tapped that “add to cart” button when we saw the new L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Serum pop up on Amazon!

Outside of our own internal trial, we talked to leading NYC dermatologists and aestheticians to get a 360-degree view of what other skincare experts really think about this product. Spoiler alert: They love it as much as we do.

“This product contains maximum-strength glycolic acid in a gentle formula,” said Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. “It helps enhance exfoliation and brighten the skin without causing irritation.”

“Ten percent is the maximum strength of glycolic acid allowed in over-the-counter products,” he explained. “It is much higher than most other glycolic skincare products that are currently available.”

Loreal glycolic acid before and after

Dr. Robyn Gmyrek, board-certified dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology agrees. “This strength is more in line with professional products,” she said. She encourages her patients to start incorporating glycolic acid products into their routine a few times a week, and then work up to using it every evening after about 2 weeks.

Beyond the brightening benefits glycolic acid provides, Gmyrek says it also sets skin up for better makeup application. “Glycolic has also been shown to increase collagen production, decrease pigmentation, discoloration, and age spots,” she said.

It’s also worth noting that L’Oréal’s serum utilizes this star ingredient in the right way. “I like that the active ingredient [glycolic acid] is not buried midway in the lineup,” said Rhea Souhleris Grous, head aesthetician for La Suite Spa at Union Square Laser Dermatology. referencing the fact that both the concentration and purity of the ingredient is stated right in the name of the product. “It’s the second ingredient, making it quite effective.”

Another one of our favorite experts, Dr. Morgan Rabach, board-certified dermatologist and cofounder of LM Medical, highlighted some additional positives from this particular glycolic acid formula from L’Oréal. “This formulation is also fragrance-free, paraben-free, mineral oil-free, dye-free, and allergy-tested,” she said.

Even though glycolic acid is an extremely beneficial ingredient, it’s important to be mindful of what else you include in your skincare routine. All experts we spoke to agree that one of the major ingredients you should avoid while using glycolic acid is retinol. “Glycolic acid makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight and also to other skincare ingredients that have an exfoliating effect,” Rabach said. “Everyone that uses a glycolic acid serum should always wear sunscreen daily.”

Trust us on this one, it's worth incorporating this into your routine on the regular. Ready to try it for yourself? Shop below and get ready to love your glowing skin!

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

Loreal glycolic acid before and after

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

Now 49% Off

Read More:

The Benefits of Glycolic Acid Products

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How to Order Your Skincare Routine, According to an Expert

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Katie McBroom is an award-winning content creator and beauty/grooming expert. Prior to contributing to Men’s Health, she served as Beauty Editor of Hearst’s BestProducts.com. Her work has also appeared in publications including Good Housekeeping, Business Insider, and The Huffington Post, among others. She's also the voice behind Martinis and Mascara, a lifestyle blog devoted to beauty, booze, fashion, food, and fun.

Does Loreal Revitalift glycolic acid work?

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), and dermatologists have recognized (opens in new tab) it as an "effective resurfacing agent for younger-looking skin." An external panel of derms validated the effectiveness of this particular formula, which promises to visibly even skin tone and reduce both wrinkles and ...

What does L Oreal glycolic acid do?

Glycolic acid works to exfoliate the outermost layers of the skin, polishing away those dead cells. Formulated with 10 percent pure glycolic acid and aloe, this serum works to even the skin tone, reduce dark spots, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

How often use Loreal glycolic acid?

Apply 4-5 drops to clean, dry skin every evening before Revitalift moisturizer. Follow with SPF in the morning to protect skin. For sensitive skin, start by using 2-3 times per week and build to nightly use. Avoid direct contact with eyes, lips and nostrils.

Is glycolic acid serum good for your face?

"It has skin exfoliating benefits to help shed dead cells that accumulate on the surface of the skin," says Dr. Zeichner. "It helps brighten a dull complexion, enhance radiance, and improve skin tone. Glycolic acid also helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles."