What are alpha hydroxy acids?

Alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs, are a family of exfoliating acids. Glycolic acid, lactic acid and citric acid are all types of AHA.

What are the benefits of AHAs for skin?

AHAs exfoliate dead surface cells to help skin look brighter and feel smoother. They can also help improve the appearance of rough texture and large pores.

Are glycolic acid and lactic acid AHAs?

Yes. Glycolic acid and lactic acid are both alpha hydroxy acids used to exfoliate the skin’s surface.

Can AHAs help reduce the look of pores?

AHAs can help reduce the appearance of large pores by clearing away dull surface cells and smoothing the look of skin texture.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids in Skincare | Ingredients

Ingredient to know

Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Gently slough away dead skin cells, revealing smoother & brighter skin

Scroll to learn more

Ingredient to know

Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Gently slough away dead skin cells, revealing smoother & brighter skin

Scroll to learn more

Alpha hydroxy acids for skin

Alpha hydroxy acids, also known as AHAs, are exfoliating acids that include glycolic acid and lactic acid. They help remove dull surface cells, revealing skin that looks smoother, brighter and more even.

Why your skin needs it

A build-up of dead surface cells can leave skin looking dull and feeling rough. AHAs gently exfoliate the skin’s surface to help brighten dull-looking skin, smooth rough texture and reduce the look of large pores.

The Clinique expertise
Clinique formulates with AHAs at effective yet skin‑respectful levels to deliver visible exfoliation without unnecessary irritation. Our scientists select specific AHA types and concentrations to optimise brightness and smoothness while maintaining your skin’s moisture balance. Many formulas pair AHAs with calming or hydrating ingredients to ensure a gentle, comfortable experience.

How Clinique uses alpha hydroxy acids
Clinique uses AHAs such as glycolic acid and lactic acid in exfoliating formulas. With regular use, they can help improve the look of radiance and uneven skin texture.

What you’ll see on the ingredient list
Glycolic Acid
Lactic Acid
Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Skin concerns
· Dullness
· Uneven texture
· Large pores

Shop Skincare With Alpha Hydroxy Acids

150ml

All About Clean 2-in-1 Cleansing + Exfoliating Jelly

Gentle, deep-cleaning face cleanser and exfoliator in one.

100 ml

Exfoliating Scrub

Water-based Exfoliating Scrub formulated with salicylic acid and silica.

125ml

Blackhead Solutions 7 Day Deep Pore Cleanse & Scrub

3-in-1 cleanser-scrub-mask reduces the appearance of visible pores and blackheads.

The Clinique Formula: Performance, Safety, Science

Clinique launched the first-ever line of dermatologist-developed skin care in 1968. The promise: to deliver effective, safe, clinically proven formulas that create great skin. We avoid using allergens, irritants and ingredients in ways that could potentially harm your skin.

Proven results are from how multiple ingredients are combined using the latest scientific breakthroughs to achieve maximum results without irritation. As science evolves, we continuously re-examine ingredients with our researchers, formulators, clinicians, and guiding board-certified dermatologists.

Allergy tested. 100% fragrance free.

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