Lipo-Hydroxy Acid: Our 5 Favorite Products with LHA

Lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA)—a lipophilic derivative of FDA-approved salicylic acid—is widely found in creams, cleansers, toners, and spot treatments thanks to its gentle exfoliating powers at low concentrations. If you have acne-prone skin, this invaluable ingredient should be on your radar. Below, seven products that include LHA.

LA ROCHE-POSAY EFFACLAR DUO

Effaclar Duo—recommended for mild to moderate acne—contains micronized benzoyl peroxide to fight acne and micro-exfoliating LHA to provide gentle exfoliation to clear pores of debris and oil, smooth roughness, and gradually even the appearance of skin’s texture. Stubborn blackheads and whiteheads are no match for this dual-action acne treatment as it helps visibly reduce blemishes and penetrates clogged pores to clear skin. Spread a thin layer of the oil-, fragrance-, and paraben-free formula on affected areas daily.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo, $36.95

SKINCEUTICALS LHA CLEANSING GEL 

Formulated for adult skin prone to breakouts, this exfoliating gel cleanser combines a triple combination of acids—LHA, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid—to decongest pores, smooth skin texture, and brighten the appearance of your complexion. The product also helps diminish the appearance of visible discoloration, fine lines, wrinkles ,and rough texture associated with aging.

SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel, $40

SKINCEUTICALS LHA SOLUTION

After using SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel, smooth a small amount of the brand’s LHA Solution over the face, neck, and chest twice daily. The exfoliating toner—designed for acne-prone skin—efficiently removes excess residue and surface cells to decongest pores. That’s right: Say goodbye to dirt, oil, and other debris that lead to breakouts. 

SkinCeuticals LHA Solution, $40

VICHY NORMADERM ANTI-AGING

If acne and shine are your concern, try this daily anti-aging moisturizer for oily and combination skin. The formula with glycolic acid, LHA, and vitamin C can help fight blemishes, control shine, soften the look of wrinkles, and refine skin’s texture. Apply evenly to face and neck twice daily after cleansing skin. It leaves a non-sticky and non-greasy matte finish, so you can follow up with your makeup application immediately.

Vichy Normaderm Anti-Aging, $25 

GARNIER CLEARLY BRIGHTER DARK SPOT CORRECTOR

Looking for a dark spot corrector that’s fast absorbing and non-sticky? Look no further. This fast absorbing, non-sticky formula is designed with antioxidant vitamins C & E, pine bark essence, and LHA to promote surface cell turnover to reveal clearer, younger-looking skin. After continued use, it can visibly reduce the look of years of sun damage.  

Garnier Clearly Brighter Dark Spot Corrector, $16.99