Best AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) Body Lotions

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Have you been focusing more on skincare lately? If your answer is yes, you probably have already heard of the term “AHA”. 

Thanks to all the social media beauty gurus, more and more people are showing interest in AHA products, including AHA body lotion.

For starters, an AHA body lotion is an exfoliating cream with intense moisturizing and cell regeneration properties. Usually, these lotions are gentle on all skin types, including sensitive skins.

With regular use, AHA in body lotions will boost collagen and let you achieve or preserve your skin’s natural youthfulness.

To date, over 50 clinical studies have been performed on Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA), confirming their benefits for skin health.

Depending on the consistency of the AHA in a body lotion, it can heal minor dark spots or provide deep exfoliation to treat strawberry skin or chicken skin (keratosis pilaris) on the hands and feet.

Some AHA lotions can be used on the face and neck as well. So, this is something that is totally worth the shot for transforming your skin texture and complexion.

Summary Table of Best AHA Body Lotions

Best Overall Glytone Daily Body Lotion

Includes broad-spectrum SPF15 Exfoliates and improves skin’s texture Removes fine lines and wrinkles Free of fragrance

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Includes broad-spectrum SPF15 Exfoliates and improves skin’s texture Removes fine lines and wrinkles Free of fragrance

Best For Daily Use GENOVÉ Fluidbase Lotion with 10% AHA

Restores the skin’s natural smoothness Stimulates collagen production Treats vast areas of the skin Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin

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Restores the skin’s natural smoothness Stimulates collagen production Treats vast areas of the skin Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin

Great For Skin Brightening NeoStrata Resurface AHA Lotion

Deeply scuffs off dead skin cells Creates a perfect skin complexion Hydrates and softens the skin Designed for AHA-acclimated skin

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Deeply scuffs off dead skin cells Creates a perfect skin complexion Hydrates and softens the skin Designed for AHA-acclimated skin

Best Unscented AHA Lotion AMLACTIN Alpha-Hydroxy Ceramide Therapy Restoring Lotion

Heals extremely dry skin Offers instant results Creates a smooth and radiant skin Dermatologically recommended

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Heals extremely dry skin Offers instant results Creates a smooth and radiant skin Dermatologically recommended

Ideal For Whole Body Use DCL AHA Resurfacing Lotion 20

Boosts active cell renewal Promotes even skin tone Minimizes pores and wrinkles Soothes the skin effectively

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Boosts active cell renewal Promotes even skin tone Minimizes pores and wrinkles Soothes the skin effectively

Best For Acne-Prone Skin Acne.org AHA+ (10% Glycolic Acid) Lotion

Treats acne spots and skin irritation Contains licochalcone for soothing acne-prone skin Non-sticky, lightweight texture Free of dye and fragrance

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Treats acne spots and skin irritation Contains licochalcone for soothing acne-prone skin Non-sticky, lightweight texture Free of dye and fragrance

Healing Skin Naturally Dermal Therapy Alpha Hydroxy High Potency Lotion

Rejuvenates the skin Heals various skin conditions Consists of non-greasy ingredients Exfoliates deep layers of the skin

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Rejuvenates the skin Heals various skin conditions Consists of non-greasy ingredients Exfoliates deep layers of the skin

Travel-Friendly AHA Lotion Nonie Of Beverly Hills AHA Brilliant Moisturizer

Gentle moisturizing lotion Suitable for vegetarians and non-vegans Consists of lemon and orange scent Great for normal and combination skin

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Gentle moisturizing lotion Suitable for vegetarians and non-vegans Consists of lemon and orange scent Great for normal and combination skin

Best for Keratosis Pilaris Touch KP Exfoliating Lotion

Ensures clear skin texture Reduces redness and bumps on skin Results in even skin complexion Consists of Aloe Vera and Coconut scent

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Ensures clear skin texture Reduces redness and bumps on skin Results in even skin complexion Consists of Aloe Vera and Coconut scent

Best Value Deal DNA CODE Exfoliating AHA Body Lotion

Ultra-light formula Protects against free radical damage Promotes fast and long-lasting results Consists of Papaya scent

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Ultra-light formula Protects against free radical damage Promotes fast and long-lasting results Consists of Papaya scent

Best for Eczema CANE + AUSTIN 15% Body Retexture Lotion

Heals eczema and Keratosis Pilaris Promotes a healthy skin texture Reduces acne and aging signs Ideal for all skin types

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Heals eczema and Keratosis Pilaris Promotes a healthy skin texture Reduces acne and aging signs Ideal for all skin types

Best For Sensitive Skin Novita Spa Clinicals Luscious AHA Body Lotion

Hydrates the skin perfectly Suitable for daily use Ensures smooth and glowing skin Boosts long-lasting results

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Hydrates the skin perfectly Suitable for daily use Ensures smooth and glowing skin Boosts long-lasting results

Best For All Ages & Skin Types AHA 12% Relax-Day AHA Exfoliating Body Lotion

Mineral, fragrance, and paraben-free Promotes cell turnover Consists of Antioxidant properties Maintains pH balance at 3.0~4.0

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Mineral, fragrance, and paraben-free Promotes cell turnover Consists of Antioxidant properties Maintains pH balance at 3.0~4.0

Top 13 AHA Body Lotion Reviews 2021

01.Best Overall

Glytone Daily Body Lotion

Packed with all the goodness of Vitamin E and Shea Butter, this AHA body lotion is perfect for dry and rough skin.

The lotion also works excellent for reducing dark spots as it feeds your skin with all the essential antioxidants and moisture.

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Specifications and Key-Features

What makes this AHA body lotion our top pick lies in its exclusive botanical blend developed with Novasome technology. This formula is rich in vitamins and minerals and is naturally fragrance-free and non-greasy.

The Glytone AHA body moisturizer has an incredible amount of Glycolic Acid that exfoliates dead skin cells, while shea butter keeps the skin moisturized throughout the day.

As a result, your skin gets rid of acne, hyperpigmentation, photoaging, uneven texture, and numerous other skin imperfections.

As it includes SPF15, your skin also remains protected against harmful UVA/UVB rays. Simply use it daily at least 15 minutes before sun exposure and apply a good sunscreen every 2 hours to smooth away flaky texture, thus achieving silky-smooth skin, ready to face the world.

02.Best For Daily Use

GENOVÉ Fluidbase Lotion with 10% AHA

If you are suffering from recurring acne (which can be irritating at times), then this AHA body lotion from Genové is what you need to solve the issue.

It’s packed with 10% AHA acids that gently remove cells from the epidermis’ outermost layers, thus promoting soft and smooth skin texture.

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Specifications and Key-Features

The active ingredients in the lotion also accelerate collagen production and boost skin elasticity. So, you get a firm, younger-looking skin texture.

Also, if you have dry, rough, and flaky areas on your knees, elbows, or arms, this lotion will come in handy as it plays a significant role in providing adequate hydration.

For achieving healthy skin texture, apply this 10% AHA lotion from Genové to the preferred area after proper cleansing. Then, massage gently for better absorption.

Using this lotion daily will ensure maximum benefit as it will retain moisture and gradually get rid of acne and rough skin texture.

03.Great For Skin Brightening

NeoStrata Resurface AHA Lotion

Can’t get enough of AHA acids in your skincare regime? Then try out this NeoStrata Resurface lotion designed especially for the facial area.

It contains 15% Glycolic Acid that effectively removes dead cells and brings out fresh layers for a soft and smooth skin texture. With regular use, it also corrects signs of photoaging, thus revitalizing your natural youthfulness.

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Specifications and Key-Features

Targeted for natural to oily skin, this AHA lotion includes powerful anti-aging properties that reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

It also helps with evening-out skin tone while treating dry and rough areas. You may also notice an improved skin complexion if you use it for a few weeks.

Getting used to this high-strength yet lightweight lotion may take some time if this is your first time with AHA products. To achieve maximum benefits, apply on your face, hands, or legs once a day for two weeks.

Then, apply twice a day from the third week. Also, try to avoid sun exposure as much as possible or wear sunscreen with high SPF.

04.Best Unscented AHA Lotion

AmLactin Alpha-Hydroxy Ceramide Therapy Restoring Lotion

This AHA body lotion from AmLactin is guaranteed to give you smoother, baby-soft skin without dryness or flaking.

The key ingredient in this product is Lactic Acid which comes in a 15% greater concentration which is clinically proven to treat extremely dry skin with gentle exfoliation.

It also promotes skin renewal, leaving your skin feeling soft and healthy.

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Specifications and Key-Features

With this body lotion, you may notice relief from dryness within 24 hours. This is mostly because once you apply the lotion, its powerful ceramide humectants increase water uptake and lock in moisture.

As a result, your skin remains hydrated and gradually reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. 

Another great aspect of this AHA body lotion is it is free of paraben and fragrance. The non-greasy formula is designed for daily use on dry skin types and is usually recommended by dermatologists.

You can use it all over your body, including knees, elbows, and neck. However, it works best on clean skin. Afterward, apply a good sunscreen to lock all the goodness in and enjoy smooth skin.

05.Ideal For Whole Body Use

DCL AHA Resurfacing Lotion 20

If you are looking for a potent and persuasive exfoliant for using everywhere from head to toe, look no further than this AHA body lotion from DCL.

Powered by 20% Glycolic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E, and a number of healthy ingredients, the lotion effectively removes dead skin cells and reveals a soft, bright, and glowing complexion.

You can use it on your face, chest, and even the heels of your feet!

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Specifications and Key-Features

The major benefits of this lotion include cell turnover, evening out skin tone, removing skin irritation, improving luminosity, etc., along reducing dryness.

As the lotion contains Hyaluronic Acid and Jojoba oil, it will diminish visible pores, wrinkles, and fine lines.

To top it all, Vitamin E, Green Tea extracts, Shea Butter, Chamomile, and Aloe will soothe the skin while boosting elasticity and providing antioxidant protection. The effects of this AHA lotion are long-term and act as an excellent shield against severe sunburns.

The lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs fast into the skin, thus making it ideal for both day and night use. To maximize its benefits, apply some moisturizer and sunscreen in the morning and follow with a moisturizer in the evening.

06.Best For Acne-Prone Skin

Acne.org AHA+ (10% Glycolic Acid) Lotion

Calming down angry, acne-prone skin has never been easier, all thanks to the AHA+ from Acne.org.

Formulated by the founder of the company Dan Kern himself, this powerful body lotion contains 10% pharmaceutical-grade Glycolic Acid that boosts cell renewal and promotes a clear complexion.

It is also infused with 0.1% licochalcone extracted from licorice root that soothes acne-prone skin.

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Specifications and Key-Features

While the key effect of this lotion is intense hydration, you can also use it with other regimens to get rid of face acne, body acne, active zits, and acne spots.

For starters, it exfoliates dry and rough patches gently and reduces the appearance of blemishes. When combined with Benzoyl Peroxide, it helps to treat body acne and acne spots.

 

You can also use this revolutionary formula to avoid or reduce skin irritation like rashes and flared acne.

When it comes to the application, the non-comedogenic, fragrance-free blend absorbs into the skin easily. You can use it every evening in 1/2 AHA+ and 1/2 moisturizer ratio or apply it 2/3 times a week instead of your regular moisturizer.

A small dab of the lotion on your skin while massaging will give visible results within a few uses.

07.Healing Skin Naturally

Dermal Therapy Alpha Hydroxy High Potency Lotion

The Dermal Therapy Alpha Hydroxy High Potency Lotion incorporates 10% Lactic Acid and 10% Urea to enhance the skin’s exfoliation and moisturization properties.

This unique blend gets rid of dry, cracked, and flaky skin and reveals younger-looking skin with greater elasticity.

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Specifications and Key-Features

What makes this lotion different from others lies in its high acid concentration suitable for thick skin layers that are usually formed in the neck, knees, elbows, heels, etc.

Once applied, the Lactic Acid in this lotion effectively gets rid of dry, scaly skin and boosts skin cell generation. The Urea, on the other hand, allows more profound penetration deep below the surface layer.

It absorbs moisture and locks it in for a long time to ensure remarkable results. The acid strengths are in reliable proportions to ensure there are no irritations to the skin.

Another significant ingredient in this body lotion is concentrated silk amino acids. In addition to moisture restoration, these silk proteins leave the skin feeling silky smooth. So, this product is loved by people suffering from Psoriasis, Keratosis Pilaris, and Ichthyosis as well.

08.Travel-Friendly AHA Lotion

Nonie of Beverly Hills AHA Brilliant Moisturizer

This amazing AHA lotion comes in a small, elegant glass bottle that is perfect for carrying in your bag.

Made of excellent quality natural ingredients, plant proteins, plant oils, and fruit extracts, the lotion incorporates 5% Alpha Hydroxy Acids that are perfect for treating dryness on skin.

In addition, it contains no parabens, alcohol, animal derivatives, or mineral oil, so you can use it without worrying about skin irritation.

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Specifications and Key-Features

The Acids in this product are plant-based and organic which performs a gentle exfoliation on the skin. When applied, the lotion gets rid of dead cells and accelerates cell renewal, which results in a youthful and healthier skin texture.

It also helps to treat dry skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines. You can apply the lotion to your neck, legs, arms and achieve a uniform complexion all over your body.

Another major aspect of this product is that it is cruelty-free, so it’s perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike. For best results, you can apply it on clean skin both in the morning and the evening, following a good toner.

If you have small wrinkles or dark spots around the eyes, you can use the lotion in those areas as well.

09.Best for Keratosis Pilaris

Touch KP Exfoliating Lotion

If you have tried countless products for treating Keratosis Pilaris but none of them seemed to work for you, give this AHA body lotion from Touch a try.

This lotion contains the unique combination of years of scientific research and high-quality clean ingredients that smooth out tiny bumps aka chicken skin on your arms and legs.

It is suitable for almost all types of skins. Moreover, the unique formula comes with a fantastic coconut or aloe vera scent, leaving your skin feeling fresh and supple.

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Specifications and Key-Features

When it comes to key ingredients, this AHA body lotion includes 12% Glycolic Acid (AHA) and 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA).

These acids ensure deep exfoliation of pores and hair follicles to reduce any redness or skin irritation, thus boosting new cell generation. As a result, any rough or bumpy area becomes smooth and radiant within a few uses.

The coconut scent in this lotion arises from Capric Caprylic Triglyceride, which is extracted from glycerin and coconut oil. It is actually the perfect moisturizing ingredient that gives the skin a non-greasy and silky feel.

The aloe vera extracts act as anti-irritants and anti-inflammatory actives. At the same time, glycine, Vitamin E, and other antioxidants effectively hydrate the skin.

One of the most impressive features of this lotion is that it contains a pH level of 3.5 which allows the absorption of more “free acids”.

The hydrating effect is long-lasting, and along with KP, it gradually heals dry skin, hyperpigmentation, body acne and promotes even texture and skin tone.

10.Best Value Deal

DNA CODE Exfoliating AHA Body Lotion

Get this fantastic Alpha Hydroxy Acid-infused body lotion to achieve a beautiful skin texture with an even skin tone.

Enriched with a mild papaya scent, the lotion uses high-quality ingredients which provide gentle exfoliation and get rid of dead skin cells within a short period.

That being said, this lotion may be a great purchase if this is your first time using AHA products as your skin will gradually adapt to the acid ingredients.

The package contains 16 fl. oz. worth product, so you will be set for a long time with this value deal.

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Specifications and Key-Features

The key ingredients of this lotion are 10% Glycolic Acid and 5% Lactic Acid. With full-strength concentration, these acids facilitate effective exfoliation and generate new cells, thus giving the skin a smooth and radiant appearance.

Glycolic Acid additionally promotes collagen production, maintains adequate hydration, and prevents the skin from free radical damage.

Usage of this ultra-light lotion is limited to nighttime as the high acid concentration is likely to increase your skin sensitivity to sun exposure.

In case you use this during the daytime, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ to prevent any sun-induced skin damage.

11.Best for Eczema

CANE + AUSTIN 15% Body Retexture Lotion

Suffering from dry, flaky, or scaly skin? Grab this body lotion before heading out and apply it once or twice daily to transform your skin completely.

This unscented AHA body lotion contains 15% Glycolic Acid, various vitamins, and antioxidants that work on all skin types and effectively boost soft and moisturized skin, which you will surely love.

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Specifications and Key-Features

Formulated with AHA acids, Vitamin A, C, and E, this product works both as a moisturizer and a treatment to provide even-toned, smooth skin.

Its pharmaceutical-grade Glycolic Acid exfoliates the skin’s dead cells and causes cell turnover, promoting greater absorbance of collagen fibers and vitamin E to give a healthy glow.

At the same time, Antioxidants, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) actively shield the skin from harmful superoxide radicals. With regular use, wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, and other signs of aging are noticeably reduced.

During the use of this Alpha-Hydroxy body lotion, there may be a tingling sensation which is very typical and isn’t a cause of worry.

It works best when used twice daily along with good sunscreen and should not come in contact with the eyes.

12.Best For Sensitive Skin

Novita Spa Clinicals Luscious AHA Body Lotion

If you are a massage lover and want a moisturizing lotion that will give you a smooth texture and even skin tone, try this Alpha Hydroxy body lotion from Novita Spa.

It has been chemically tested in laboratories and is proven to offer great results within a short time.

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Specifications and Key-Features

The powerful Glycolic Acid concentration in this lotion gently exfoliates the dead skins and offers unique hydration to retexture dry, itchy, and flaky skin.

Formulated with natural ingredients and botanicals suitable for sensitive skin, this lotion can be applied daily to the whole body, including the facial area.

The revolutionary exfoliating formula combines the best water-binding agents and the ABC Complex (Alpha-Beta-Vitamin C) with Novita Spa’s exclusive hydration and silicone system to lock in moisture for a long time.

The lotion also incorporates vitamins A, C, and D and vital natural oils to shield the body from harmful UV rays. However, it’s advisable to purchase with a skincare specialist’s permission since it may react differently on different skin.

13.Best For All Ages & Skin Types

AHA 12% Relax-Day AHA Exfoliating Body Lotion

Where visible signs of dryness are a concern, this moisturizing lotion enriched with 12% Glycolic Acid exfoliates dead surface skin cells, helps prevent the formation of irregular surface scaling, and visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines.

When applied in two/three pumps on the targeted area, this AHA body lotion also helps calm down irritated and inflamed skin conditions.

However, the highlight of this lotion is its excellent compatibility with all genders and all ages.

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Specifications and Key-Features

Formulated with a wide range of natural ingredients, this lotion caters to various skincare requirements.

For example, the green tea extract and skullcap extract include antioxidants properties that ensure the skin remains healthy while the Madecassoside promotes skin rejuvenation.

Collagen fibers, Hyaluronic Acid, and rosemary extract hydrate the skin,  thus enhancing its elasticity and moisture-locking properties. Finally, Centella extract boosts soothing effects, so the skin does not get irritated.

The lotion is free of parabens and artificial perfume, which is suitable for all individuals, including asthmatic patients.

It also balances the pH level of the skin, keeping it 3.0~4.0 for fast absorption and visibly noticeable results within a short period.

Tips for Using AHA Lotion for Better Results

As you already know, AHA lotions consist of plant and animal-based acids. So, when you are absorbing acids into your skin, you need to maintain the correct method of application for ensuring proper health benefits within a short time.

To keep you from constant worries while using AHA lotions, we have broken down the whole process below.

Determine Your Skin Type

The type of skin varies from normal, dry, combination, and oily. AHA lotions always offer solutions to all skin types. Thus, it’s crucial to identify your skin type before choosing a certain product to achieve your desired effects.

Skin identification will also save you the struggle of using different lotions that may not favor your skin and cause more harm in the end.

Cleanse The Area of Application 

Whether you are applying the AHA lotion on your face or body, wash it with a cleanser to remove any harsh residue. Next, apply a toner to prepare a clean base for instant moisture absorption.

If your AHA lotion is liquid, apply it with a cotton pad. With a thicker consistency, massage with your fingers in circular motions.

Focus on Wrinkles and Fine Lines

Naturally, wrinkles start to form on the forehead and under the eyes with age. Many people also notice deep lines around the lips and fine lines around the eye area.

To avoid or prevent such signs of early aging, apply an AHA lotion on these areas and massage to smooth out the skin texture.

Try Out Different AHA Concentrations

You can test with various Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, or Glycolic Acid formulas to determine the concentration that offers you the best results.

You can also use these with other regimens (if prescribed) to treat certain skin concerns like traces of blemishes, hyperpigmentation, rashes, tiny bumps, etc.

Apply a sunscreen with SPF 15+

While many AHA body lotions include SPF to ensure protection against UV rays, it is still recommended to apply a good sunscreen before heading out in the daytime.

Also, try to use AHA lotion at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. For better results, add a layer of sunscreen every few hours if you remain outside for a time.

How Often Should I Use AHA Body Lotions?

Experimentally, it is a good practice to use AHA body lotions once or twice a day, depending on the usage requirement of your selected product.

It’s unlikely that there is harm from applying it more than this, but the benefit from doing so will likely be negligible.

Usually, AHA lotions with high acid concentration require use once a day or 2/3 times a week.

These provide powerful exfoliation and stimulate collagen production, which hydrates and rejuvenates the skin, thus making it smoother and brighter. 

Daily AHA lotions, on the other hand, are known for their gentle exfoliation properties. So, they can be used in the morning and the evening. 

However, keep in mind that if you are not used to AHA products, use them less frequently in the first few weeks. Also, perform a patch test to ensure you are not allergic to any ingredient.

Once your skin becomes accustomed to AHA, continue applying the lotion as mentioned in the package.

Final Words

Recent years have seen some revolutionary skincare products, and you can definitely add AHA lotions to the list.

The active ingredients in AHA lotions are not only nature-derived and skin-friendly, but they also combat numerous skin concerns and prevent photoaging. All the best AHA body lotions mentioned in this article are highly rated and widely used.

You can apply these products to areas where extra hydration is needed, and the results are fantastic.

So, no need to struggle with acne, dry skin, unbalanced skin tones, or flaky skin anymore. Just try our expert-recommended AHA body lotions and experience smooth, soft, and beautiful radiant skin.