Squalane + 10% Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum
A powerful yet gentle 10% vegan lactic acid serum that delivers visibly smoother, softer, and brighter skin overnight. Clinically proven to boost hydration by 113% while minimizing pores and fine lines with the nourishing support of sugarcane-derived squalane.
✨ Texture & Feel
Gentle Yet Effective Exfoliation
10% vegan lactic acid dissolves dead skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin without harsh irritation.
Deep Hydration
Sugarcane-derived squalane replenishes moisture barrier while boosting hydration by 113% overnight.
Clover Extract Complex
Boosts cell turnover and helps reset skin from daily environmental stressors like UV rays and blue light.
Visible Results Fast
Clinical studies show improvement in pores, fine lines, and texture as soon as overnight use.
🛡️ Safety & Compatibility
Lactic acid is widely considered safe during pregnancy by dermatologists. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Topical lactic acid at 10% concentration is considered safe while nursing as minimal absorption occurs through skin.
Contains Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate (olive-derived emulsifiers) which may feed malassezia yeast.
AHAs increase photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ during the day when using this serum.
Rated 1/5 - very unlikely to clog pores. Squalane is non-comedogenic and helps balance oil production.
Natural lavender essential oil provides subtle scent. May cause sensitivity in those allergic to fragrance.
🔬 Ingredient Breakdown
🧪 Lactic Acid 10% Proven
A gentle yet effective alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from vegan sources. Exfoliates dead skin cells, promotes cell turnover, and supports the skin's natural moisture barrier.
- Clinical Evidence: Studies show lactic acid reduces fine lines, improves texture, and brightens skin tone
- Molecular Size: Larger than glycolic acid, making it gentler and less irritating
- Dual Action: Exfoliates while also attracting moisture to the skin
💧 Squalane High Proven
Plant-derived from renewable sugarcane through biotechnology. A lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that mimics your skin's natural oils for superior hydration without clogging pores.
- Source: 100% sugarcane-derived, saving 2 million sharks annually from traditional harvesting
- Absorption: Bioidentical to human sebum - absorbs instantly without residue
- Stability: Saturated hydrocarbon structure means excellent shelf stability
🍀 Clover Extract Active Promising
Lespedeza Capitata Leaf/Stem Extract boosts the exfoliating benefits of lactic acid while helping reset and renew skin from daily environmental damage including UV rays, blue light, and pollution.
- Function: Enhances cell turnover synergistically with lactic acid
- Protection: Contains antioxidants to combat environmental stressors
- Recovery: Supports skin's natural renewal process overnight
🧴 Glycerin Supporting Proven
A powerful humectant naturally found in skin. Draws moisture from the environment into the skin, providing lasting hydration and strengthening the moisture barrier.
- Research: Studies show glycerin more effective than hyaluronic acid as a humectant
- Safety: Comedogenic rating 0, irritancy rating 0
- Efficacy: Effective from 3% concentration with benefits increasing up to 20-40%
19 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Lactic Acid, Squalane, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Cetearyl Olivate, Propanediol, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Lespedeza Capitata Leaf/Stem Extract, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Acacia Senegal Gum, Sodium Gluconate, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Linalool
🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as part of your PM routine only. Apply after cleansing and toner, before moisturizer. Gentle enough for nightly use.
📝 How to Use
Cleanse Your Skin
Start with a clean, dry face. Remove all makeup and impurities with your favorite cleanser.
Apply 2-3 Pumps
Dispense 2-3 pumps onto fingertips. The airless pump ensures fresh, hygienic product every time.
Massage Gently
Apply evenly to face, neck, and décolleté. Massage in upward motions until fully absorbed.
Follow With Moisturizer
For extra hydration, follow with your favorite moisturizer. Leave on overnight - no need to rinse.
Apply SPF in the Morning
AHAs increase sun sensitivity. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ the following morning.
👤 Who Is It For?
✅ Perfect for you if:
- You want smoother, more even skin texture
- You're concerned about fine lines and dullness
- You prefer gentle exfoliation over harsh scrubs
- You want a clean, sustainable beauty product
- You're looking for a pregnancy-safe exfoliant
- You have normal, dry, oily, or combination skin
- You want visible results within 1-2 weeks
❌ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're extremely sensitive to AHAs
- You're allergic to lavender or essential oils
- You cannot commit to daily SPF use
- You need a stronger exfoliant (glycolic acid)
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products
🎯 Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly. Helps minimize enlarged pores and controls excess sebum.
Squalane and glycerin provide deep hydration. Lactic acid also acts as a humectant. Pair with rich moisturizer.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas while refining oily T-zone.
Lactic acid is gentler than glycolic. Contains lavender oil - patch test recommended. Start every other night.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Great for texture and post-acne marks. NOT suitable for fungal acne.
Clinically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Boosts cell turnover which naturally slows with age.
📈 Results Timeline
Instant Hydration & Glow
Skin feels immediately softer and more hydrated. Clinical studies show +113% improvement in skin hydration after just one use.
100% noticed softer skinSmoother Texture & Smaller Pores
Dead skin cells are exfoliated, revealing fresher skin beneath. Pores appear visibly minimized and skin texture improves.
100% showed improved poresReduced Fine Lines & Dark Spots
Continued use promotes cell turnover, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
100% showed reduced fine linesTransformed Complexion
Skin appears brighter, more even-toned, and visibly younger. Full benefits of consistent AHA use become apparent.
Best results with consistent use⭐ Ratings by Platform
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Praised
- Visibly smoother, brighter skin overnight
- Gentle enough for nightly use
- Clean, sustainable formula
- Award-winning (Women's Health, Glamour)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Non-greasy, absorbs quickly
- Clinically proven results (+113% hydration)
- Vegan, cruelty-free, EWG verified
- Airless pump maintains freshness
❌ Criticized
- Higher price point than drugstore options
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- Contains lavender essential oil (potential allergen)
- May be too strong for very sensitive skin
- Requires daily SPF commitment
- 30ml size runs out quickly with daily use
- Creamy texture not preferred by some
💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Same 10% lactic acid concentration with added hyaluronic acid. Thinner, more watery texture. No squalane or clover. Less elegant formula but highly effective for the price.
Contains 10% lactic acid with hyaluronic acid. Simpler formula without the luxurious squalane base. Good entry-level option for AHA beginners.
Multi-acid formula with glycolic, lactic, malic, and tartaric acids. More intense exfoliation. Includes ceramides and peptides. Fragrance-free option.
Clean beauty formula with lactic acid plus niacinamide and centella. K-beauty inspired with additional soothing botanicals. Different target audience.
🔄 Comparison with Competitors
Biossance Squalane + 10% Lactic Acid
$65.00Sunday Riley Good Genes
$85.00The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA
$8.90Drunk Elephant Protini Powerpeptide
$68.00📦 Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed.
Airless pump bottle - maintains product freshness and prevents contamination
Yes - 30ml is under TSA 100ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Lactic acid is widely considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding by dermatologists. Unlike retinoids or high-dose salicylic acid, topical lactic acid at 10% concentration has minimal systemic absorption. However, always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice during pregnancy.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate, which are olive-derived emulsifiers that can potentially feed malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA as a fungal-safe alternative.
Use caution when combining actives. For retinol: alternate nights (lactic acid one night, retinol the next). For vitamin C: use vitamin C in the morning, lactic acid at night. Avoid layering multiple AHAs/BHAs in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation. Biossance recommends their Phyto-Retinol Serum as a compatible option.
This serum works excellently for all skin types: normal, dry, oily, combination, and mature skin. It's particularly beneficial for those with dull, uneven texture, enlarged pores, or fine lines. Those with very sensitive skin should patch test first and start with every-other-night use. Not recommended for those with active eczema, rosacea flares, or compromised skin barrier.
Results can be seen remarkably quickly! Clinical studies show +113% improvement in hydration and visible improvement in pores and fine lines after just ONE use. Most users notice smoother, brighter skin within 1-2 weeks. For significant improvements in hyperpigmentation and deeper lines, expect 4-8 weeks of consistent use.
Use in your PM routine only: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Eye Cream → THIS SERUM → Moisturizer. Apply 2-3 pumps to clean, dry skin. No need to rinse off - leave overnight. Always follow with SPF 30+ the next morning as AHAs increase sun sensitivity.
No, this serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's very unlikely to clog pores. Squalane (the main moisturizing ingredient) has a comedogenic rating of 0 and actually helps balance oil production. Lactic acid helps unclog pores by exfoliating dead skin cells. However, those with fungal acne should avoid due to the olivate emulsifiers.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The airless pump packaging helps maintain freshness and prevents contamination, extending the effective life of the active ingredients. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for best results.
Verdict: The Biossance Squalane + 10% Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum is an excellent choice for anyone seeking gentler yet effective exfoliation with a clean beauty conscience. Its clinically proven formula delivers visible results quickly while the squalane base provides nourishing hydration that many competing lactic acid serums lack. The higher price point is justified by the premium ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and elegant formulation. However, those with fungal acne should look elsewhere, and budget-conscious shoppers can find similar (though less luxurious) results from The Ordinary. Best for: dry, combination, oily, or mature skin types wanting to address texture, dullness, and fine lines with a pregnancy-safe, clean beauty product.
Original: $0.03
-67%$0.03
$0.01Squalane + 10% Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum
A powerful yet gentle 10% vegan lactic acid serum that delivers visibly smoother, softer, and brighter skin overnight. Clinically proven to boost hydration by 113% while minimizing pores and fine lines with the nourishing support of sugarcane-derived squalane.
✨ Texture & Feel
Gentle Yet Effective Exfoliation
10% vegan lactic acid dissolves dead skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin without harsh irritation.
Deep Hydration
Sugarcane-derived squalane replenishes moisture barrier while boosting hydration by 113% overnight.
Clover Extract Complex
Boosts cell turnover and helps reset skin from daily environmental stressors like UV rays and blue light.
Visible Results Fast
Clinical studies show improvement in pores, fine lines, and texture as soon as overnight use.
🛡️ Safety & Compatibility
Lactic acid is widely considered safe during pregnancy by dermatologists. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Topical lactic acid at 10% concentration is considered safe while nursing as minimal absorption occurs through skin.
Contains Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate (olive-derived emulsifiers) which may feed malassezia yeast.
AHAs increase photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ during the day when using this serum.
Rated 1/5 - very unlikely to clog pores. Squalane is non-comedogenic and helps balance oil production.
Natural lavender essential oil provides subtle scent. May cause sensitivity in those allergic to fragrance.
🔬 Ingredient Breakdown
🧪 Lactic Acid 10% Proven
A gentle yet effective alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from vegan sources. Exfoliates dead skin cells, promotes cell turnover, and supports the skin's natural moisture barrier.
- Clinical Evidence: Studies show lactic acid reduces fine lines, improves texture, and brightens skin tone
- Molecular Size: Larger than glycolic acid, making it gentler and less irritating
- Dual Action: Exfoliates while also attracting moisture to the skin
💧 Squalane High Proven
Plant-derived from renewable sugarcane through biotechnology. A lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that mimics your skin's natural oils for superior hydration without clogging pores.
- Source: 100% sugarcane-derived, saving 2 million sharks annually from traditional harvesting
- Absorption: Bioidentical to human sebum - absorbs instantly without residue
- Stability: Saturated hydrocarbon structure means excellent shelf stability
🍀 Clover Extract Active Promising
Lespedeza Capitata Leaf/Stem Extract boosts the exfoliating benefits of lactic acid while helping reset and renew skin from daily environmental damage including UV rays, blue light, and pollution.
- Function: Enhances cell turnover synergistically with lactic acid
- Protection: Contains antioxidants to combat environmental stressors
- Recovery: Supports skin's natural renewal process overnight
🧴 Glycerin Supporting Proven
A powerful humectant naturally found in skin. Draws moisture from the environment into the skin, providing lasting hydration and strengthening the moisture barrier.
- Research: Studies show glycerin more effective than hyaluronic acid as a humectant
- Safety: Comedogenic rating 0, irritancy rating 0
- Efficacy: Effective from 3% concentration with benefits increasing up to 20-40%
19 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Lactic Acid, Squalane, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Cetearyl Olivate, Propanediol, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Lespedeza Capitata Leaf/Stem Extract, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Acacia Senegal Gum, Sodium Gluconate, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Linalool
🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as part of your PM routine only. Apply after cleansing and toner, before moisturizer. Gentle enough for nightly use.
📝 How to Use
Cleanse Your Skin
Start with a clean, dry face. Remove all makeup and impurities with your favorite cleanser.
Apply 2-3 Pumps
Dispense 2-3 pumps onto fingertips. The airless pump ensures fresh, hygienic product every time.
Massage Gently
Apply evenly to face, neck, and décolleté. Massage in upward motions until fully absorbed.
Follow With Moisturizer
For extra hydration, follow with your favorite moisturizer. Leave on overnight - no need to rinse.
Apply SPF in the Morning
AHAs increase sun sensitivity. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ the following morning.
👤 Who Is It For?
✅ Perfect for you if:
- You want smoother, more even skin texture
- You're concerned about fine lines and dullness
- You prefer gentle exfoliation over harsh scrubs
- You want a clean, sustainable beauty product
- You're looking for a pregnancy-safe exfoliant
- You have normal, dry, oily, or combination skin
- You want visible results within 1-2 weeks
❌ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're extremely sensitive to AHAs
- You're allergic to lavender or essential oils
- You cannot commit to daily SPF use
- You need a stronger exfoliant (glycolic acid)
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products
🎯 Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly. Helps minimize enlarged pores and controls excess sebum.
Squalane and glycerin provide deep hydration. Lactic acid also acts as a humectant. Pair with rich moisturizer.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas while refining oily T-zone.
Lactic acid is gentler than glycolic. Contains lavender oil - patch test recommended. Start every other night.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Great for texture and post-acne marks. NOT suitable for fungal acne.
Clinically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Boosts cell turnover which naturally slows with age.
📈 Results Timeline
Instant Hydration & Glow
Skin feels immediately softer and more hydrated. Clinical studies show +113% improvement in skin hydration after just one use.
100% noticed softer skinSmoother Texture & Smaller Pores
Dead skin cells are exfoliated, revealing fresher skin beneath. Pores appear visibly minimized and skin texture improves.
100% showed improved poresReduced Fine Lines & Dark Spots
Continued use promotes cell turnover, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
100% showed reduced fine linesTransformed Complexion
Skin appears brighter, more even-toned, and visibly younger. Full benefits of consistent AHA use become apparent.
Best results with consistent use⭐ Ratings by Platform
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Praised
- Visibly smoother, brighter skin overnight
- Gentle enough for nightly use
- Clean, sustainable formula
- Award-winning (Women's Health, Glamour)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Non-greasy, absorbs quickly
- Clinically proven results (+113% hydration)
- Vegan, cruelty-free, EWG verified
- Airless pump maintains freshness
❌ Criticized
- Higher price point than drugstore options
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- Contains lavender essential oil (potential allergen)
- May be too strong for very sensitive skin
- Requires daily SPF commitment
- 30ml size runs out quickly with daily use
- Creamy texture not preferred by some
💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Same 10% lactic acid concentration with added hyaluronic acid. Thinner, more watery texture. No squalane or clover. Less elegant formula but highly effective for the price.
Contains 10% lactic acid with hyaluronic acid. Simpler formula without the luxurious squalane base. Good entry-level option for AHA beginners.
Multi-acid formula with glycolic, lactic, malic, and tartaric acids. More intense exfoliation. Includes ceramides and peptides. Fragrance-free option.
Clean beauty formula with lactic acid plus niacinamide and centella. K-beauty inspired with additional soothing botanicals. Different target audience.
🔄 Comparison with Competitors
Biossance Squalane + 10% Lactic Acid
$65.00Sunday Riley Good Genes
$85.00The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA
$8.90Drunk Elephant Protini Powerpeptide
$68.00📦 Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed.
Airless pump bottle - maintains product freshness and prevents contamination
Yes - 30ml is under TSA 100ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Lactic acid is widely considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding by dermatologists. Unlike retinoids or high-dose salicylic acid, topical lactic acid at 10% concentration has minimal systemic absorption. However, always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice during pregnancy.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate, which are olive-derived emulsifiers that can potentially feed malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA as a fungal-safe alternative.
Use caution when combining actives. For retinol: alternate nights (lactic acid one night, retinol the next). For vitamin C: use vitamin C in the morning, lactic acid at night. Avoid layering multiple AHAs/BHAs in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation. Biossance recommends their Phyto-Retinol Serum as a compatible option.
This serum works excellently for all skin types: normal, dry, oily, combination, and mature skin. It's particularly beneficial for those with dull, uneven texture, enlarged pores, or fine lines. Those with very sensitive skin should patch test first and start with every-other-night use. Not recommended for those with active eczema, rosacea flares, or compromised skin barrier.
Results can be seen remarkably quickly! Clinical studies show +113% improvement in hydration and visible improvement in pores and fine lines after just ONE use. Most users notice smoother, brighter skin within 1-2 weeks. For significant improvements in hyperpigmentation and deeper lines, expect 4-8 weeks of consistent use.
Use in your PM routine only: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Eye Cream → THIS SERUM → Moisturizer. Apply 2-3 pumps to clean, dry skin. No need to rinse off - leave overnight. Always follow with SPF 30+ the next morning as AHAs increase sun sensitivity.
No, this serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's very unlikely to clog pores. Squalane (the main moisturizing ingredient) has a comedogenic rating of 0 and actually helps balance oil production. Lactic acid helps unclog pores by exfoliating dead skin cells. However, those with fungal acne should avoid due to the olivate emulsifiers.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The airless pump packaging helps maintain freshness and prevents contamination, extending the effective life of the active ingredients. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for best results.
Verdict: The Biossance Squalane + 10% Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum is an excellent choice for anyone seeking gentler yet effective exfoliation with a clean beauty conscience. Its clinically proven formula delivers visible results quickly while the squalane base provides nourishing hydration that many competing lactic acid serums lack. The higher price point is justified by the premium ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and elegant formulation. However, those with fungal acne should look elsewhere, and budget-conscious shoppers can find similar (though less luxurious) results from The Ordinary. Best for: dry, combination, oily, or mature skin types wanting to address texture, dullness, and fine lines with a pregnancy-safe, clean beauty product.
Product Information
Product Information
Shipping & Returns
Shipping & Returns
Description
A powerful yet gentle 10% vegan lactic acid serum that delivers visibly smoother, softer, and brighter skin overnight. Clinically proven to boost hydration by 113% while minimizing pores and fine lines with the nourishing support of sugarcane-derived squalane.
✨ Texture & Feel
Gentle Yet Effective Exfoliation
10% vegan lactic acid dissolves dead skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin without harsh irritation.
Deep Hydration
Sugarcane-derived squalane replenishes moisture barrier while boosting hydration by 113% overnight.
Clover Extract Complex
Boosts cell turnover and helps reset skin from daily environmental stressors like UV rays and blue light.
Visible Results Fast
Clinical studies show improvement in pores, fine lines, and texture as soon as overnight use.
🛡️ Safety & Compatibility
Lactic acid is widely considered safe during pregnancy by dermatologists. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Topical lactic acid at 10% concentration is considered safe while nursing as minimal absorption occurs through skin.
Contains Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate (olive-derived emulsifiers) which may feed malassezia yeast.
AHAs increase photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ during the day when using this serum.
Rated 1/5 - very unlikely to clog pores. Squalane is non-comedogenic and helps balance oil production.
Natural lavender essential oil provides subtle scent. May cause sensitivity in those allergic to fragrance.
🔬 Ingredient Breakdown
🧪 Lactic Acid 10% Proven
A gentle yet effective alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from vegan sources. Exfoliates dead skin cells, promotes cell turnover, and supports the skin's natural moisture barrier.
- Clinical Evidence: Studies show lactic acid reduces fine lines, improves texture, and brightens skin tone
- Molecular Size: Larger than glycolic acid, making it gentler and less irritating
- Dual Action: Exfoliates while also attracting moisture to the skin
💧 Squalane High Proven
Plant-derived from renewable sugarcane through biotechnology. A lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that mimics your skin's natural oils for superior hydration without clogging pores.
- Source: 100% sugarcane-derived, saving 2 million sharks annually from traditional harvesting
- Absorption: Bioidentical to human sebum - absorbs instantly without residue
- Stability: Saturated hydrocarbon structure means excellent shelf stability
🍀 Clover Extract Active Promising
Lespedeza Capitata Leaf/Stem Extract boosts the exfoliating benefits of lactic acid while helping reset and renew skin from daily environmental damage including UV rays, blue light, and pollution.
- Function: Enhances cell turnover synergistically with lactic acid
- Protection: Contains antioxidants to combat environmental stressors
- Recovery: Supports skin's natural renewal process overnight
🧴 Glycerin Supporting Proven
A powerful humectant naturally found in skin. Draws moisture from the environment into the skin, providing lasting hydration and strengthening the moisture barrier.
- Research: Studies show glycerin more effective than hyaluronic acid as a humectant
- Safety: Comedogenic rating 0, irritancy rating 0
- Efficacy: Effective from 3% concentration with benefits increasing up to 20-40%
19 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Lactic Acid, Squalane, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Cetearyl Olivate, Propanediol, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Lespedeza Capitata Leaf/Stem Extract, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Acacia Senegal Gum, Sodium Gluconate, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Linalool
🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as part of your PM routine only. Apply after cleansing and toner, before moisturizer. Gentle enough for nightly use.
📝 How to Use
Cleanse Your Skin
Start with a clean, dry face. Remove all makeup and impurities with your favorite cleanser.
Apply 2-3 Pumps
Dispense 2-3 pumps onto fingertips. The airless pump ensures fresh, hygienic product every time.
Massage Gently
Apply evenly to face, neck, and décolleté. Massage in upward motions until fully absorbed.
Follow With Moisturizer
For extra hydration, follow with your favorite moisturizer. Leave on overnight - no need to rinse.
Apply SPF in the Morning
AHAs increase sun sensitivity. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ the following morning.
👤 Who Is It For?
✅ Perfect for you if:
- You want smoother, more even skin texture
- You're concerned about fine lines and dullness
- You prefer gentle exfoliation over harsh scrubs
- You want a clean, sustainable beauty product
- You're looking for a pregnancy-safe exfoliant
- You have normal, dry, oily, or combination skin
- You want visible results within 1-2 weeks
❌ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're extremely sensitive to AHAs
- You're allergic to lavender or essential oils
- You cannot commit to daily SPF use
- You need a stronger exfoliant (glycolic acid)
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products
🎯 Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly. Helps minimize enlarged pores and controls excess sebum.
Squalane and glycerin provide deep hydration. Lactic acid also acts as a humectant. Pair with rich moisturizer.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas while refining oily T-zone.
Lactic acid is gentler than glycolic. Contains lavender oil - patch test recommended. Start every other night.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Great for texture and post-acne marks. NOT suitable for fungal acne.
Clinically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Boosts cell turnover which naturally slows with age.
📈 Results Timeline
Instant Hydration & Glow
Skin feels immediately softer and more hydrated. Clinical studies show +113% improvement in skin hydration after just one use.
100% noticed softer skinSmoother Texture & Smaller Pores
Dead skin cells are exfoliated, revealing fresher skin beneath. Pores appear visibly minimized and skin texture improves.
100% showed improved poresReduced Fine Lines & Dark Spots
Continued use promotes cell turnover, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
100% showed reduced fine linesTransformed Complexion
Skin appears brighter, more even-toned, and visibly younger. Full benefits of consistent AHA use become apparent.
Best results with consistent use⭐ Ratings by Platform
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Praised
- Visibly smoother, brighter skin overnight
- Gentle enough for nightly use
- Clean, sustainable formula
- Award-winning (Women's Health, Glamour)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Non-greasy, absorbs quickly
- Clinically proven results (+113% hydration)
- Vegan, cruelty-free, EWG verified
- Airless pump maintains freshness
❌ Criticized
- Higher price point than drugstore options
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- Contains lavender essential oil (potential allergen)
- May be too strong for very sensitive skin
- Requires daily SPF commitment
- 30ml size runs out quickly with daily use
- Creamy texture not preferred by some
💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Same 10% lactic acid concentration with added hyaluronic acid. Thinner, more watery texture. No squalane or clover. Less elegant formula but highly effective for the price.
Contains 10% lactic acid with hyaluronic acid. Simpler formula without the luxurious squalane base. Good entry-level option for AHA beginners.
Multi-acid formula with glycolic, lactic, malic, and tartaric acids. More intense exfoliation. Includes ceramides and peptides. Fragrance-free option.
Clean beauty formula with lactic acid plus niacinamide and centella. K-beauty inspired with additional soothing botanicals. Different target audience.
🔄 Comparison with Competitors
Biossance Squalane + 10% Lactic Acid
$65.00Sunday Riley Good Genes
$85.00The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA
$8.90Drunk Elephant Protini Powerpeptide
$68.00📦 Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed.
Airless pump bottle - maintains product freshness and prevents contamination
Yes - 30ml is under TSA 100ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Lactic acid is widely considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding by dermatologists. Unlike retinoids or high-dose salicylic acid, topical lactic acid at 10% concentration has minimal systemic absorption. However, always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice during pregnancy.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Cetearyl Olivate and Sorbitan Olivate, which are olive-derived emulsifiers that can potentially feed malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA as a fungal-safe alternative.
Use caution when combining actives. For retinol: alternate nights (lactic acid one night, retinol the next). For vitamin C: use vitamin C in the morning, lactic acid at night. Avoid layering multiple AHAs/BHAs in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation. Biossance recommends their Phyto-Retinol Serum as a compatible option.
This serum works excellently for all skin types: normal, dry, oily, combination, and mature skin. It's particularly beneficial for those with dull, uneven texture, enlarged pores, or fine lines. Those with very sensitive skin should patch test first and start with every-other-night use. Not recommended for those with active eczema, rosacea flares, or compromised skin barrier.
Results can be seen remarkably quickly! Clinical studies show +113% improvement in hydration and visible improvement in pores and fine lines after just ONE use. Most users notice smoother, brighter skin within 1-2 weeks. For significant improvements in hyperpigmentation and deeper lines, expect 4-8 weeks of consistent use.
Use in your PM routine only: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Eye Cream → THIS SERUM → Moisturizer. Apply 2-3 pumps to clean, dry skin. No need to rinse off - leave overnight. Always follow with SPF 30+ the next morning as AHAs increase sun sensitivity.
No, this serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's very unlikely to clog pores. Squalane (the main moisturizing ingredient) has a comedogenic rating of 0 and actually helps balance oil production. Lactic acid helps unclog pores by exfoliating dead skin cells. However, those with fungal acne should avoid due to the olivate emulsifiers.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The airless pump packaging helps maintain freshness and prevents contamination, extending the effective life of the active ingredients. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for best results.
Verdict: The Biossance Squalane + 10% Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum is an excellent choice for anyone seeking gentler yet effective exfoliation with a clean beauty conscience. Its clinically proven formula delivers visible results quickly while the squalane base provides nourishing hydration that many competing lactic acid serums lack. The higher price point is justified by the premium ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and elegant formulation. However, those with fungal acne should look elsewhere, and budget-conscious shoppers can find similar (though less luxurious) results from The Ordinary. Best for: dry, combination, oily, or mature skin types wanting to address texture, dullness, and fine lines with a pregnancy-safe, clean beauty product.
