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Quick tip before you start: every serum mentioned here is available on trego.pk — enter code Expo5 at checkout for 5% off your entire order, sale days included.
Lactic acid serum is the forgotten gentler AHA — same exfoliating job as glycolic, but larger molecule, slower penetration, and far less sting. If you want the smoothing and brightening of an acid without the irritation, the best lactic acid serum is the answer most people overlook. Here is why it might be yours.
What lactic acid actually does
Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid — like glycolic, it dissolves the bonds between dead surface cells, but its molecule is larger, which means it works more slowly and gently. It also has mild hydrating properties that glycolic lacks, making it the friendlier exfoliant for borderline-sensitive skin.
Effective formulas typically run 5% to 10% — the lower end for sensitive skin, the higher end for texture that needs real work.
Who it suits best
- Sensitive skin wanting exfoliation — the gentlest mainstream AHA, and the usual first acid for easily-irritated skin.
- Surface texture and dullness — same job as glycolic, at a milder pace.
- Dehydrated skin — lactic’s mild hydrating action helps where other acids strip.
- First-time acid users — the safest entry point before graduating to glycolic or stronger options.
The picks available in Pakistan
Honest positioning: Trego does not currently sell a dedicated lactic acid serum — its exfoliating option is the 5% Glycolic Skin Brightening Toner at around Rs.1,229, a comparable AHA at a similar strength tier for the same texture-and-brightening job.
Imported lactic serums — The Ordinary 5% and 10% formulas are the benchmark — sell through importers and Daraz at roughly Rs.2,500–4,500; verify authenticity carefully.
For the stronger AHA option, see best glycolic acid serum, and best mandelic acid serum for the even-milder acne-friendly alternative.
How to use lactic acid serum
- Start two nights a week — clean, dry skin; increase frequency as skin tolerates.
- A few drops, pressed in — spread evenly over texture-prone areas.
- Moisturize after — lactic is milder but still benefits from a barrier-buffer.
- Morning SPF is mandatory — exfoliated skin burns faster; daily protection protects your progress.
- Alternate with retinol nights — do not stack the two actives on the same evening.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best lactic acid serum in Pakistan?
A 5% to 10% lactic formula — imported options run Rs.2,500–4,500; the Trego 5% glycolic toner at around Rs.1,229 handles the same exfoliation job locally.
What does lactic acid serum do?
It exfoliates surface dead skin like other AHAs but with a larger molecule — milder action plus mild hydration.
Is lactic acid good for sensitive skin?
Yes — it is the gentler choice between glycolic and the mildest option for easily-irritated skin.
How often can I use lactic acid serum?
Two to three nights weekly to start; most sensitive skins tolerate it better than glycolic at the same frequency.
Get 5% off with code Expo5
Order through Export Shelf — it sends you to the official Trego checkout — and enter Expo5 for 5% off your order, sale days included. Details are in the trego discount code guide, or buy directly from the official Trego store where the code applies automatically.
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