The Inkey List’s simply-named Lactic Acid Face Serum doesn’t offer much beyond its namesake ingredient for exfoliation, but does what it says without problematic ingredients.

This fragrance-free serum has a very fluid, almost water-like texture that absorbs quickly into skin. It’s suitable for all skin types, and layers well with other skin care products. Skin is left feeling immediately smoother and softer.

The big draw here is 10% lactic acid, a form of alpha hydroxy acid that has extensive research proving its effectiveness, second only to glycolic acid.

This exfoliating serum is formulated at a pH of 3.60, which is within the optimal range of 3 and 4 for its to work best as an exfoliant. With daily use, this is likely to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and signs of sun damage including dullness and uneven skin tone.

Joining the lactic acid is skin-plumping sodium hyaluronate, hydrating castor oil, and Agastache mexicana extract, a plant which has antioxidant properties. For a product labeled as a serum we’d like to see a more potent blend of ingredients, including additional antioxidants, but we’re happy that it skips the irritating ingredients that The Inkey List’s glycolic acid product (and so many others on the market) contains.

In short, it’s a good, effective exfoliant, though one we wish had just a little more!

Pros: Lightweight texture works well with other skin care products.

Includes 10% lactic acid at a pH that’s optimal for exfoliation to occur.

Includes skin-plumping sodium hyaluronate and hydrating castor oil.

Packaged to protect its light- and air-sensitive ingredients.

Fragrance-free.