Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%
The Ordinary / 1 fl oz / $8.74
A gentle AHA for first-time exfoliating. Use 1-2 nights a week at first.
Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)Concern
Dullness
Dullness is usually dead skin buildup, dehydration, sun damage and uneven pigment. Exfoliating acids and vitamin C give the clearest improvements.
Actives that work
Alpha hydroxy acids
moderate evidence Typical: 5-10%
Loosen dead surface cells to reveal fresher skin. Long-term AHA use increased skin thickness and reversed photoaging markers.
Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)
moderate evidence Typical: 10-20%
Brightens through antioxidant protection and pigment effects. Systematic review found lightening and smoothing, with long-term use needed.
Niacinamide
moderate evidence Typical: 2-5%
Improves sallowness and tone. A 12-week trial reduced yellowing and blotchiness.
What to buy
Cheapest first. Start with the budget pick.
20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum
Timeless / 1 oz / $23.39
Antioxidant serum with ferulic acid for daytime brightness. Check color; brown means oxidized.
Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
The Ordinary / 240 ml / $12.82
A 7% glycolic toner for gentle polishing. Sun-sensitizing, so use sunscreen.
Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)C15 Super Booster
Paula's Choice / 0.67 fl oz / ~$49
A 15% vitamin C booster to mix into other products. Stability matters; keep it capped and cool.
Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel (30 pads)
Dr. Dennis Gross / 30 packettes / $94
Multi-acid peel pads for weekly resurfacing. Effective but irritating if overused.
Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)C E Ferulic
SkinCeuticals / 1 oz / ~$182
Well-known 15% L-ascorbic acid formula with antioxidant data. High price for a formula you can find cheaper.
Buy on Amazon (opens in new tab)Routine
Morning
- Gentle cleanser
- Vitamin C
- Moisturizer
- SPF 30+
Evening
- Cleanser
- AHA (2-3 nights/week)
- Moisturizer
Don't over-exfoliate; 2-3 nights a week is plenty, and results show over 4-12 weeks.
Cautions. AHAs increase sun sensitivity, so wear daily SPF. Patch test vitamin C, and stop acids if skin burns or peels.
This is general information, not medical advice. See a dermatologist for persistent or severe concerns.