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The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% High-Strength Exfoliating Serum for Uneven Texture - 1 fl oz - Ulta Beauty
$9.20
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About this item
Highlights
- A High-Strength Lactic Acid Superficial Peeling Formulation
- Targets textural irregularities and signs of congestion
- Aids in appearance of uneven skin tone
- Targets signs of aging
- PH 3.60 - 3.79
- Cruelty-free
Description
Lactic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that offers superficial exfoliation to enhance smooth skin texture and radiance. This formula is supported by the addition of purified Tasmanian pepperberry extract to offer a comforting benefit to the skin in effort to reduce sensitivity that is associated with acid use. The formula is further supported with the inclusion of hyaluronic acid for multi-depth hydration. A milder 5% formula is available here.
This pH of this formula is approximately 3.8 and Lactic Acid has a pKa of 3.8. The pKa value is the most important aspect to consider in formulating with acids as pKa implies acid availability. When pKa is close to pH, there is an ideal balance between salt and acidity, maximizing the efficacy of the acid and reducing the potential of developing irritation. Higher pH values in such a case would increase the concentration of salt, which counter-intuitively would make the formula even more irritating than if the formula was more acidic.Contraindications: Lactic Acid should not be used on sensitive, peeling or compromised skin. Please refer to additional sun protection note and other warnings in provided directions.
This pH of this formula is approximately 3.8 and Lactic Acid has a pKa of 3.8. The pKa value is the most important aspect to consider in formulating with acids as pKa implies acid availability. When pKa is close to pH, there is an ideal balance between salt and acidity, maximizing the efficacy of the acid and reducing the potential of developing irritation. Higher pH values in such a case would increase the concentration of salt, which counter-intuitively would make the formula even more irritating than if the formula was more acidic.Contraindications: Lactic Acid should not be used on sensitive, peeling or compromised skin. Please refer to additional sun protection note and other warnings in provided directions.
Scent: Unscented
Health Facts: Contains Hyaluronic Acid, Silicone-Free, Vegan, Oil-Free, Nut Oil and Extract-Free, Alcohol-Free, Gluten-Free, Contains Alpha Hydroxy
Product Warning: Keep out of reach of children
Product Form: Serum
Beauty Purpose: Dry, Skin Tone Improvement, Exfoliating, Skin Texture Improvement, Anti-Aging, Smoothing, Mature
Recommended Skin Type: Oily, Normal, Sensitive, Dry, Acne-Prone, Very Dry, Mature, Combination
Net weight: 1 fl oz (US)
TCIN: 82541258
UPC: 769915190373
Item Number (DPCI): 342-01-0026
Origin: Imported
Healthcare Disclaimer:
Content on this site is for reference purposes only. Target does not represent or warrant that the nutrition, ingredient, allergen and other product information on our Web or Mobile sites are accurate or complete, since this information comes from the product manufacturers. On occasion, manufacturers may improve or change their product formulas and update their labels. We recommend that you do not rely solely on the information presented on our Web or Mobile sites and that you review the product's label or contact the manufacturer directly if you have specific product concerns or questions. If you have specific healthcare concerns or questions about the products displayed, please contact your licensed healthcare professional for advice or answers.
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Ingredients:
aqua (water), lactic acid, glycerin, pentylene glycol, propanediol, sodium hydroxide, sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, tasmannia lanceolata fruit/leaf extract, acacia senegal gum, xanthan gum, isoceteth-20, trisodium ethylenediamine disuccinate. ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-hexanediol, caprylyl glycol.' '
Shipping details
Estimated ship dimensions: 1.4 inches length x 1.4 inches width x 4.5 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.2 pounds
Return details
This item can be returned to any Target store or Target.com.
This item must be returned within 90 days of the date it was purchased in store, shipped, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or made ready for pickup.
See the return policy for complete information.
Q: Is this supposed to be frothy/bubbly?
submitted by Janie - 10 months ago
A: It can appear foamy or bubbly when applied vvigorously. To minimize this, try patting it onto the skin instead of rubbing.
submitted byGeorgia - 6 months ago
Q: what's does it do for your skin?
submitted by m - 3 years ago
A: I think it evens up your skin tone. Hyperpigmentation would be an example!
submitted byFaith - 3 years ago
Q: Can this be used on the scalp to help exfoliate flakes?
submitted by catpawsoup - 1 month ago
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Guests are saying
This lactic acid serum has garnered positive feedback for its ability to gently exfoliate and improve skin texture, making it a favorite among guests. Many have reported smoother skin, reduced acne, and a more even complexion after regular use. While some guests noted a strong smell and occasional irritation, the overall effectiveness and affordability of the product have made it a staple in their skincare routines. Guests appreciate its versatility for various skin types and concerns.
Summary created by AI from text of reviews reflecting recent feedback provided across different star ratings (includes incentivized reviews)
4.4 out of 5 stars with 758 reviews
Improves Skin Texture: 4.27 out of 5
Improves Skin Tone: 4.3 out of 5
Exfoliating: 4.34 out of 5
Anti-aging: 3.94 out of 5
Hydrates Skin: 3.81 out of 5
88% would recommend
45 recommendations
5 out of 5 stars
23 October, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

Working its magic
I use after my shower 1-2 times a week followed by healing balm. It is definitely the best reaction my skin has had to a chemical exfoliant and slowly unclogging my pores! Glycolic kept disturbing my moister barrier and I break out w salicylic acid.
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
3 October, 2025Verified purchase
New Skin
I love this stuff!! I don't run out of it. It is strong, I use it only every 2 days or so under my night moisterizer. Be sure to wear sunscreen to prevent age spots.
5 out of 5 stars
15 September, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

Ingrowns, KP, Rough Texture
It's helping remove dead skin and dark marks I've had for years - I appreciate that its gentle and doesn't sting, I've even accidentally put it on a scratch that was slightly opened and it wasn't terrible stinging. Recommended for sensitive skin!
5 out of 5 stars
19 August, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

Long time user
I've used this product for over 5 years. It gently exfoliates my skin. I use it 3 or 4 times a week and I can feel the difference in my skin texture when I go more than a week without using it. I'm in my mid 50s and and my skin feels much smoother and the finish of my makeup is much more natural looking when I'm using this. It's my favorite skincare product.
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
3 August, 2025Verified purchase
Aesthetician Approvex
As an aesthetician myself, I rarely use drugstore skincare… but believe me when I tell you this is my Paramore moment, because “You are my only exception”. I have been experiencing texture and an increase in bumps on my forehead for about 6 months now. Benzoil peroxide didn’t help, manual exfoliation didn’t help, and salicylic didn’t help. Do you know what did WITHIN A WEEK? This little buddy right here. I am beyond blown away. I used it every other night and it was absolutely perfect. Highly recommend.
4 out of 5 stars
28 July, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

enduring the smell for results
I love this product, I truly do - it clears my acne without drying my skin. honestly, since I started using it my skin started to look sooo good! BUT the smell....it smells like expired cucumber pickling water mixed with fermented milk.(the smell does go away when the solution dries out)
5 out of 5 stars
25 July, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

I Really Like This
I really like this, I'm using in my nighttime routine before my mosturizer, I'll be using it for getting results 🤞
5 out of 5 stars
13 July, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

It's a start in my KP journey
I searched for the strongest product with Lactic acid since I have severe KP on my arms. I just needed something to smooth it out and get rid of that red swelled up look. I didnt use it as frequently but the times that I did, it did make a huge difference! The redness faded out and it is smoother than before. Not dire results that would have me shouting on teh rooftop for other KP havers. I will probably purchase it again to see how far it can go.
5 out of 5 stars
1 July, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

Magic Potion?
I don't write reviews a lot, but this product deserves one! I have keratosis pilaris and could never get a smooth shave because of it. I have been using this for TWO days and my legs are almost completely smooth! I am often pretty skeptical of cosmetic and skincare products that talk a big game of the effectiveness of their products especially at $100+ proce points, and sometimes even with positive reviews, but The Ordinary is humble, effective, and affordable. I'm a huge fan now. I bought several other skincare serums from them for facial skin concerns such as uneven texture, fine lines, enlarged pores and redness and I already see a difference there too after a week
4 out of 5 stars
27 June, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

THE BEST!!!!
PLEASE make this in a bigger bottle! I decided to try this for my KP (iykyk) and it has worked wonders compared to anything else I've tried! I paired this with the naturium lotion and my skin is practically almost cleared! I will say start slow especially if you have sensitive skin so you don't wreck your barrier!
1 out of 5 stars
8 June, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

Thanks for the chemical burn
Gave me the worst chemical burn right after putting it on had to wash it off immediately made my skin red and painful do not buy this
5 out of 5 stars
18 April, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

I'd compare this to Sunday Riley's lactic acid
I purchased this as a dupe to SR's Good Genes Lactic Acid and i honestly didnt expect it to work as well. I was pleasantly surprised that I noticed a huge texture difference within a few days' use. I'm prone to dry skin and this did not dry or irritate my skin at all. I havent got any new breakouts since using this. Im very happy with this product.
5 out of 5 stars
14 April, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

Great
Love this I will buy again
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
25 March, 2025Verified purchase
Mixed feelings, but mainly positive
Although this product did smooth out MINOR blemishes across my face, I really didn’t notice a difference using it. It ran out incredibly fast when I was using it every other day and I experienced no irritation, but I probably wouldn’t repurchase.
5 out of 5 stars
22 March, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

If you use Amlactin on your body, use this on your face
I've been using paula's choice BHA exfoliant for 2 years, with no noticeable results. But I've been using a lactic acid body lotion on my body and it keeps that skin clear. I bought this after it dawned on me that I should look into face lactic acid. This stuff has been reducing my break outs and helping clear existing acne. I'm using a vitamin c in addition to lighten scarring and I'm seeing a real improvement after a month of use. I'll be buying this forever. If you have success with lactic acid body lotion, you should buy this.
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
6 March, 2025Verified purchase
Smells Bad
The first thing that stood out to me about this product was the smell: it smells like eggs. Not a pleasant smell at all, in my opinion. I have rosacea and my medication makes me sensitive to the sun, so I will only be using this at night & a few times a week.
2 out of 5 stars
Thumbs down graphic, would not recommend
23 February, 2025Verified purchase
Reasonable affordable but yet to see any change
Con- Item not sealed so one doesn’t know if it’s a return item/been tampered With the warning of possible stinging/sensitivity, I was expecting some slight tingly/biting feeling but didn’t feel anything nor see any effects. Wondering about the potency as I do have sensitive skin Pro - not seen positive effect but item is affordable compared to other name brands and so I was hopeful given the positive reviews. We’ll see.
4 out of 5 stars
24 January, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

Does it's job
As an oily girl with textured skin this works pretty well. Be careful not to use more than one a day as it could irritate your skin. When this happens I just use a barrier cream than it's all good
5 out of 5 stars
3 January, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

One of my favorite products.
I have tried several different brands of Lactic Acid 10%. I always come back to Ordinary projects.
5 out of 5 stars
3 January, 2025
originally posted on http://www.ulta.com

Great product.
I would definitely recommend this product. I have used it for 5 years.