Private label glycolic and lactic acid (AHA) formulas

Developing a glycolic or lactic acid product

AHAs suit both leave-on and wash-off formats. A cleanser or wash-off mask gives short contact with skin and is a gentle entry point for a range. A toner, serum or cream stays on the skin and is usually positioned as the stronger step. Browse ready exfoliating formulas and AHA cleansers to see where each one sits.

Texture and pairing choices

Glycolic acid has the smallest molecule of the common AHAs. Lactic acid is often chosen for a softer-feeling exfoliating product. Many brands pair AHAs with salicylic acid, a BHA, in a peel-style solution, or balance them with humectants such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid so the finish does not feel tight. The acid level and the formula's pH work together, so both are fixed at the formulation stage.

Packaging

Acidic formulas need bottles, pumps and closures that have been checked for compatibility with them. Stability and compatibility testing in the final pack is standard before launch.

Claims and labelling

• Sun advice: AHAs can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so AHA products commonly carry sun-protection advice on the label. Confirm the exact wording for each market with your regulatory adviser.
• Evidence first: claims such as "smoother-looking skin" or "visibly refined pores" need consumer or instrumental test data before you use them.
• Stated strength: any acid level printed on pack must match the formula document exactly.

For a bespoke acid blend, texture or scent, our custom formulation service works from your brief, and the product development process explains each step.