If you've got temperamental skin but still want to reap the benefits of a chemical exfoliator, lactic acid may be the way to go (its molecule size is larger, and therefore can't penetrate the skin as deeply, meaning less irritation). "Not only does the lactic acid unclog pores and turn over the cell layers, but it also acts as a humectant [at low concentrations] to seal moisture into the skin," dermatologist Dr Ife J Rodney told POPSUGAR.
Lucky for us, one of our favourite skin-care brands has come out with a serum full of it. The Strivectin Lactic Acid Nightly Retexturizing Serum (£60) promises to leave skin smoother, pores clearer, and your complexion generally glowier thanks to its star ingredient, as well as peptides, blue cypress oil, and the brand's patented NIA-114 complex.