Ever wished for effortlessly radiant, smooth to the touch, and glowing skin? Meet glycolic acid serums—the skincare superheroes transforming dull, tired skin into a luminous masterpiece. This magical serum is a secret weapon for tackling dead skin cells, clearing up stubborn spots, and leaving your face looking like you just stepped out of a luxury spa. Sounds dreamy, right?
But here’s the catch—finding the right glycolic acid serum can feel overwhelming. The question is: how do you pick the one that’s truly worth it? That’s where we come in. We’ve rounded up a list of the best glycolic acid serums to transform your skincare routine. Ready to give your skin the glow-up it deserves? Let’s get started!
What is Glycolic Acid, and How Does It Work?
Glycolic acid is a water-soluble alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane. Among all AHAs, it has the smallest molecular size, allowing it to penetrate deeply into the skin. This property makes glycolic acid a powerful ingredient in skincare, celebrated for its exfoliating, brightening, and skin-renewing capabilities.
Here’s a closer look at how glycolic acid works and what are the benefits of using it:
- It removes the dull outer layer of the skin, revealing a fresher, brighter complexion underneath.
- Promotes collagen synthesis, which helps improve skin elasticity, reduces the appearance of fine lines, and makes your skin look plumper and healthier.
- Helps unclog pores and prevent blackheads, whiteheads, and acne.
- It fades away dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars while encouraging skin cell turnover, helping your skin heal faster, and maintaining an even tone.
- Smooth rough patches and make them feel softer and more refined.
Now that you know the benefits, here’s who can benefit from it:
- Dull or uneven skin tone
- Acne or frequent breakouts
- Fine lines and early signs of ageing
- Hyperpigmentation or dark spots
However, it might not be ideal for individuals with extremely sensitive or rosacea-prone skin due to its potency.
Top 8 Glycolic Acid Serums in India
Dr. Sheth’s Gulab & Glycolic Acid Serum

If your skin craves a little extra care to banish dullness, dark spots, and uneven texture, Dr. Sheth’s Gulab & Glycolic Acid Serum might just be the game-changer you need. More than just a skincare product—it’s a treat for your skin that combines the power of science and tradition. This serum is a unique blend of Indian botanical expertise and potent actives and suits every Indian skin tone.
Features and USPs:
- Soothes your Skin—With the calming properties of Gulab (rose) extract, this serum soothes your skin. Its anti-inflammatory nature also ensures that freshly exfoliated skin stays calm and hydrated.
- Deep Exfoliation—Infused with 6% Glycolic Acid, this product works at a deeper level to slough off dead skin cells, revealing smoother, clearer skin. It also boosts cell turnover, revitalising and refreshing your skin.
- Fades Dark Spots—This product contains 5% Niacinamide, a powerhouse that fades dark spots, blemishes, and marks while refining skin texture. It also minimises the appearance of pores.
- Non-Sticky, Lightweight—Its transparent, quick-absorbing consistency ensures that your skin feels light and fresh after every application.
Pros | Cons |
Dermatologist-approved | It may cause slight tingling for beginners |
Eco-friendly choice | Not ideal for very dry skin |
Suitable for all skin types | |
Improves skin health | |
Skin-renewing formula |
Minimalist 10% AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum

The Minimalist 10% AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum is a carefully balanced solution for anyone looking to revive dull, tired skin without harsh scrubs or abrasive treatments. It is a multi-tasking marvel crafted for those stepping into the world of chemical exfoliation. Perfect for beginners, this serum is like a smooth introduction to the magic of AHAs and BHAs. Get this one of the best glycolic acid serums and give your skin the care it deserves.
Features and USPs:
- Multi-Level Exfoliation—The serum effectively exfoliates dead skin cells by blending Lactic Acid (a mild AHA), Glycolic Acid (a potent AHA), and Salicylic Acid (a BHA).
- Hydration Meets Exfoliation—This formula also includes Hyaluronic Acid and aloe vera to hydrate and soothe the skin, ensuring it feels plump and refreshed after application.
- Perfect for Sensitive Skin—Formulated at a skin-friendly pH of 3.5-4.0, this serum minimises irritation while providing effective exfoliation. Also, its hypoallergenic nature makes it perfect for delicate skin.
- Clean and Transparent Beauty—This serum is fragrance-free, paraben-free, sulphate-free, and essential oil-free—a safe choice for those avoiding harsh chemicals or additives.
- Globally Sourced Ingredients—It is crafted with high-quality components from trusted suppliers, ensuring purity and potency in every drop.
Pros | Cons |
Non-comedogenic formula | Not a budget-friendly choice |
Offers gentle exfoliation | It may not show immediate results |
Treats rough texture and acne marks | |
Good quality product | |
For all skin types |
L’Oreal Paris Glycolic Bright Face Serum

The L’Oréal Paris Glycolic Bright 8% Serum is more than just a dark spot corrector—it’s your ticket to radiant, glowing skin. Powered by Melasyl, Glycolic Acid, and Niacinamide, this serum is the result of 18 years of cutting-edge research designed to tackle stubborn pigmentation and reveal your skin’s natural radiance. With a lightweight, non-sticky formula, it’s one of the best Glycolic Acid serum for anyone seeking an even-toned, glowing complexion.
Features and USPs:
- Powered by Melasyl—This multi-patented molecule captures excess melanin, reducing and preventing dark spots at their source. From sunspots to age spots to acne marks, it is a comprehensive choice to have.
- Dual-Action Brightening—The serum’s 1% Glycolic Acid exfoliates dead skin cells, while 2% Niacinamide works deeper to brighten skin and reduce existing spots.
- Clinically Proven Efficacy—This dermatologically tested formula has been clinically proven to reduce 77% of dark spots in just four weeks. It also offers instant brightness with long-term results.
- Non-Sticky Formula—The lightweight, fast-absorbing texture makes it perfect for daily use. It sinks into your skin effortlessly without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue.
- Stimulates Skin Cell Renewal—The combination of Melasyl and Glycolic Acid works at multiple layers of the skin to promote faster cell turnover, ensuring fresher, healthier skin surfaces.
Pros | Cons |
Balanced 8% formula | Not a good choice for extremely dry skin |
Hypoallergenic and safe | Requires consistent use |
Free from fragrances | |
Research-backed ingredients | |
Targets all types |
Himalaya Dark Spot Clearing Turmeric Serum

When it comes to timeless skincare remedies, turmeric has always been the golden standard. Now imagine the power of turmeric amplified with 2% Niacinamide and 10% Glycolic Acid in a single serum. The Himalaya Dark Spot Clearing Turmeric Face Serum brings the goodness of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) and turmeric all in one. The ancient Ayurvedic wisdom of Svarasa cold-pressed turmeric extraction and cutting-edge science make it reduce dark spots in just 7 days.
Features and USPs:
- Cold-Pressed Turmeric Extract—The cold-pressed extraction method preserves turmeric’s potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping it deliver unparalleled clarity and brightness to your skin.
- Dual Power Formula—The goodness of 10% Glycolic Acid gently exfoliates the skin, and 2% Niacinamide enhances the skin barrier, fades acne marks, and balances uneven skin tone.
- Boosts Natural Radiance—Phyto-vitamin complex combines turmeric, liquorice, and niacinamide to not just fade dark spots but also amplify your skin’s luminosity.
- Non-Staining Formula—This serum is specially formulated to be non-staining and ultra-light, making it perfect for daily use without worrying about residue or greasiness.
- Dermatologically Tested & Safe—This serum is dermatologically tested to be safe for all skin types. It is Formulated without mineral oils, parabens, phthalates, silicones, and SLS/SLES.
Pros | Cons |
Enhances skin’s natural barrier | Not everyone likes the fragrance of the serum |
Organically sourced ingredients | |
Fast absorbing formula | |
Healthy & radiant skin | |
Value for money serum |
Dot & Key Watermelon 10% Glycolic Serum

Looking for a skincare product that feels as refreshing as biting into a slice of watermelon on a summer day? Meet the Dot & Key Watermelon 10% Glycolic Serum, a perfect blend of fruit-based antioxidants and high-performance actives. Designed specifically for oily and normal skin types, this serum targets dark spots, clogged pores, and dullness while delivering visibly smoother, brighter skin. With its non-sticky, lightweight formula, this serum promises visibly smooth and luminous skin with every drop.
Features and USPs:
- Glycolic Acid Exfoliation—This serum features 10% Glycolic Acid, a potent AHA that gently resurfaces the skin by removing dead cells, revealing smoother, glowing skin underneath.
- Antioxidant-Rich Formula—Infused with the goodness of watermelon, this ingredient is a powerhouse of antioxidants that hydrate the skin, control sebum production, and leave it feeling refreshed.
- Spot Correction—The addition of Kojic Acid in the serum targets skin discolouration and pigmentation, helping to even out the skin tone and reduce dark spots.
- Provides Deep Hydration—It combines hyaluronic acid with the nourishing properties of cloudberry oil to ensure that your skin stays hydrated and plump for a long time.
- Reduces Future Breakouts—This serum helps prevent future breakouts by unclogging pores and removing dead skin cells, making it a preventative as well as a corrective solution.
Pros | Cons |
Soft and supple skin | Slight tingling may occur during initial use |
Dermatologist-tested | |
Fragrance and silicone-free | |
Non-comedogenic formula | |
Lightweight and gentle |
Rejusure 5% Glycolic Acid Facial Serum

Imagine a skincare solution that addresses multiple concerns in one drop—dark spots, wrinkles, dullness, and rough skin. The Rejusure Glycolic Acid Serum is exactly that. Powered by 5% Glycolic Acid, Vitamin C, and Hyaluronic Acid, this serum is a comprehensive formula that rejuvenates and brightens your skin while supporting collagen production. It’s a professional-grade product that offers advanced results, whether you’re battling acne scars or looking to improve your skin’s overall texture.
Features and USPs:
- Advanced Brightening Formula—The serum combines Glycolic Acid and Vitamin C to reduce pigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone, leaving your skin with a natural, radiant glow.
- Multi-Concern Solution—With its exfoliating properties, this serum addresses acne scars, wrinkles, rough patches, and clogged pores. It also works on purging oil, dirt, and bacteria for cleaner skin.
- Deep Hydration—Hyaluronic Acid in the formula ensures that your skin stays hydrated and plump, counteracting any dryness caused by exfoliation.
- Collagen-Boosting Formula—With 5% Glycolic Acid, the serum stimulates collagen production, helping to improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and give your skin a firmer, youthful appearance.
- Non-Comedogenic Formula—This serum is paraben-free, sulphate-free, vegan, and cruelty-free, making it gentle on the skin while ensuring it doesn’t clog pores or cause irritation.
Pros | Cons |
Professional-grade serum | Limited to oily and normal skin |
Multi-concern targeting formula | No immediate glow |
Enhances skin radiance | |
Affordable option | |
Gender-inclusive |
Lakme Glycolic Illuminate Face Serum

Step into the spotlight with the Lakmé Glycolic Illuminate Serum, your go-to skincare solution for polished, radiant skin. Formulated with 1% potent Glycolic Acid, this serum gently resurfaces your skin, unveiling a silky satin finish that’s perfect for modern skincare enthusiasts. With its lightweight texture, quick results, and travel-friendly sizes, it is one of the best Glycolic Acid serums for anyone aiming for radiant, polished skin.
Features and USPs:
- Visible Improvement—This serum is clinically proven to deliver noticeable results, with 97% of users agreeing it smoothes texture and boosts radiance in just 10 days.
- Convenient Application—Just drop, dab, and glow! Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly, making it perfect for an on-the-go lifestyle.
- Visibly Smoothens Texture—Regular use helps refine rough patches and uneven skin texture, resulting in a smoother and healthier-looking complexion.
- Hydration Boost—Infused with Sodium Hyaluronate, this serum not only smoothens but also deeply hydrates, ensuring your skin stays plump and moisturised.
- Affordable Luxury—Unlike others, this Lakme serum provides the benefits of professional-grade exfoliation and brightening at a budget-friendly price point, making it accessible to everyone.
- Free from Harsh Chemicals—Formulated without parabens, sulphates, or harsh chemicals, ensuring a safe and skin-friendly experience for all users.
Pros | Cons |
Travel-friendly packaging | Smaller, 15ml size may run out quickly |
Suitable for all skin types | |
Improves skin radiance | |
Fast-absorbing formula | |
Perfect for all-weather |
Dermtribe 10% Glycolic Acid Face Serum

Why settle for ordinary skincare when you can have extraordinary results? The Dermtribe 10% Glycolic Acid Face Serum is a powerhouse formula combining 10% Glycolic Acid, 5% Niacinamide, Turmeric, and Hyaluronic Acid to deliver visible results. It is one of the best Glycolic Acid serums for brightening, dark spot correction, hydration, and anti-ageing. Crafted to suit all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, this multitasking marvel is a must-try.
Features and USPs:
- Advanced Exfoliation—This potent AHA, containing 10% Glycolic Acid, gently exfoliates dead skin cells and promotes cell turnover, revealing a fresher, smoother, and more even skin tone.
- Brightening and Pore Refinement—The goodness of Niacinamide helps to minimise pores, reduces redness, and strengthens the skin barrier, making it perfect for anyone looking for a clearer complexion.
- Adds Natural Glow—Turmeric’s natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help soothe irritation, calm redness, and boost your skin’s natural glow.
- Multi-Action Benefits—Unlike other serums, it works for all skin concerns. Whether it’s hyperpigmentation, fine lines, acne scars, uneven tone, or oil control, it addresses everything in a single formula.
- Balances Oil Production—Perfect for oily and combination skin, the serum controls excess sebum, leaving your skin refreshed without clogging pores.
Pros | Cons |
Lightweight formula | It may not pair well with strong actives |
Quick-absorbing texture | Overuse may lead to dryness |
Dermatologist-tested | |
Hydrates the skin | |
Well-balanced blend of actives |
How to Choose the Best Glycolic Acid Serum?
If you’re still deciding which Glycolic Acid Serum to use, here’s how to choose a product with the right formulation and features.
Identify Your Skin Type
Everyone’s skin is unique—what works for someone else may not work for you. So, start by understanding your skin type.
- If you have dry skin, look for serums containing glycolic acid combined with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
- For oily or acne-prone skin, opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula that may also include ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide.
- Sensitive skin individuals should choose a serum with a lower glycolic acid concentration (5% or less) and soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.
Check the Glycolic Acid Concentration
Too much of a good thing can be bad, and very little of it won’t be effective, especially when it comes to active ingredients. Knowing the right concentration is key to reaping the benefits without irritating your skin.
- Beginners should start with a low concentration of 5%–7%
- Experienced users can opt for higher concentrations (10%–12%)
- Advanced users can go for serums with up to 15% glycolic acid
Look for Soothing and Hydrating Ingredients
Since glycolic acid can be powerful, it is a good idea to pair it with calming ingredients that make it gentle enough for daily use. These ingredients can include aloe vera to calm and soothe the skin, hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture, and ceramides to repair the skin barrier.
Consider Your Skin Concerns
Not all glycolic acid serums are created equal—some are tailored for acne, while others focus on anti-ageing. Pinpoint your biggest concern and let the serum do its magic. For instance:
- For dullness and uneven tone, serums with added vitamin C can boost brightness
- For fine lines and wrinkles, products with glycolic acid and peptides work well for anti-ageing
- For acne-prone skin, serums that combine glycolic acid with salicylic acid can help exfoliate and unclog pores.
Budget Matters
Skincare doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option or a luxury treat, there’s a serum for every budget. Some offer effective formulations at reasonable prices, while others provide high-quality options with advanced formulations but at a premium price. Look for the brand that falls into your budget.
How to Use Glycolic Acid Serum Safely
Glycolic acid serums are skincare superheroes, but like any powerful tool, they need to be used correctly for the best results. Improper application can lead to irritation or other skin issues. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to incorporate them safely into your routine.
Step 1: Start Slow
Begin with a low concentration (5%-7%) and use it just 2-3 times a week to allow your skin to adjust.
Step 2: Apply to Clean, Dry Skin
Before you apply serum, cleanse your face thoroughly and ensure it’s dry to avoid irritation.
Step 3: Use a Pea-Sized Amount
Apply a small amount of serum evenly over your face, avoiding sensitive areas like the eyes and corners of the mouth.
Step 4: Layer Wisely
Glycolic acid is a team player and should be paired with hydrating products like hyaluronic acid. However, it should not be combined with strong actives like retinol or vitamin C in the same routine.
Step 5: Always Follow with Moisturiser
Glycolic acid can leave your skin feeling a bit dry, so lock in moisture with a nourishing cream or gel.
Note: Always patch test on a small area, like your jawline or the back of your hand, to ensure your skin tolerates the serum without adverse reactions.
Final Words
Glycolic acid serums are a game-changer in skincare that helps achieve that lit-from-within look. Whether you’re new to the world of chemical exfoliation or a seasoned pro, finding the best glycolic acid serum tailored to your skin type and needs can unlock a whole new level of radiance.
Remember, skincare is a journey, not a race. Start slow, listen to your skin, and be consistent with your routine. So, why wait? Pick your favourite, give it a try, and get ready to shine. Let us know which one worked best for you, or if you have any other favourites we should add to the list!
FAQs
Which serum is best with glycolic acid?
The best glycolic acid serum depends on your skin’s concerns and type. For beginners, try Lakmé Glycolic Illuminate Serum (1% Glycolic Acid). For advanced care, opt for Dermtribe 10% Glycolic Acid Serum with Niacinamide and Turmeric for dark spots and hydration.
Is 7% or 10% glycolic acid better?
If you’re a beginner or have sensitive skin, 7% is a safer choice. For experienced users or those targeting stubborn skin issues, 10% can be more effective.
Does glycolic acid remove tan?
Yes, glycolic acid can help remove tan by exfoliating dead skin cells and promoting skin renewal for an even tone.
Can I use 10% glycolic acid every day?
Daily use is not recommended for beginners. If your skin tolerates it well, start with 2–3 times a week and gradually increase.
How long does it take to see results?
Most people notice smoother, brighter skin within 2–4 weeks of consistent use.
Can I use glycolic acid with retinol?
Avoid using glycolic acid and retinol together, as they can increase irritation. Alternate their use in your routine.