The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA Review: Potent Surface Exfoliation for Dry, Dull Skin

Exfoliation is a cornerstone of many skincare routines, but finding a formula that balances potency with tolerability can be challenging—especially for those with dry or uneven skin. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA enters this space as a leave-on exfoliating serum, positioned for adults looking to address textural irregularities, dullness, and uneven skin tone. With a transparent ingredient list and a focus on surface-level renewal, this product invites a closer look at both its strengths and its necessary precautions.

What The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA Is Designed For

The Ordinary positions this serum as a targeted exfoliant for adults with dry skin, textural irregularities, dullness, or uneven skin tone. It is a water-based, leave-on formula containing 10% lactic acid—an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) known for its ability to exfoliate the skin’s top layer. The brand highlights its use for surface-level renewal, aiming to reveal smoother, more even-looking skin. This product is not intended for sensitive, peeling, or compromised skin, and the brand is explicit about its limitations and necessary precautions.

Formulation and Ingredient Transparency

One of the product’s most notable features is its fully disclosed ingredient list, which includes lactic acid at a 10% concentration, sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, and Tasmanian pepperberry fruit/leaf extract. The inclusion of hyaluronic acid is a common strategy in exfoliating serums, as it is widely used as a humectant to help maintain hydration. Tasmanian pepperberry extract, according to the brand and general ingredient knowledge, is included for its anti-irritant properties, potentially helping to reduce the discomfort sometimes associated with acid exfoliation. The serum is vegan, gluten-free, alcohol-free, oil-free, and silicone-free, which may be relevant for readers with specific ingredient preferences.

How to Use and Key Warnings

The Ordinary instructs users to apply this serum once daily, ideally in the evening. The formula can be diluted with other products to reduce strength until the skin develops tolerance—a practical consideration for those new to acids or with concerns about sensitivity. Importantly, the brand warns against use on sensitive, peeling, or compromised skin, and advises avoiding the eye area entirely. Patch testing prior to use is recommended. Because lactic acid is an AHA, it can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun; users are strongly advised to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure both during use and for a week after discontinuing the product. The product should not be combined with certain other actives, including copper peptides, direct vitamin C, retinoids, and other direct acids, among others.

General Science: Lactic Acid and Tasmanian Pepperberry

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that works by exfoliating the skin’s surface, helping to shed dead skin cells and promote a smoother appearance. Tasmanian pepperberry extract is included in the formula and is known in skincare for its anti-irritant properties, which may help offset some of the stinging or redness that can occur with acid exfoliation.

Limitations and Practical Considerations

While the high lactic acid concentration and ingredient transparency are strengths, this product is not universally suitable. The Ordinary is clear that it should not be used on sensitive, peeling, or compromised skin, and that irritation is possible. The need for sun protection and avoidance of certain ingredient combinations adds complexity to its use. There is no product-specific performance evidence supplied, so individual results and tolerability cannot be assumed.