How to Use 8% AHA Lotion Exfoliant for Smoother Skin

By Paula's Choice | Shop Paula's Choice | Published: 2026-10-28

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to use 8% AHA Lotion Exfoliant to gently smooth rough skin, reduce fine lines, and boost hydration. Get step-by-step tips for best results.

Quick Answer

Apply 8% AHA Lotion Exfoliant to clean, dry skin up to twice daily, starting with once a day to build tolerance. Follow with moisturizer and always use sunscreen in the morning.

Why AHA Lotion Works for Rough Skin

AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) exfoliants like 8% glycolic acid work by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface. This helps reveal smoother, softer skin and can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Unlike physical scrubs, an AHA exfoliant lotion also delivers hydration, which is especially helpful for rough, dry areas like elbows, knees, and heels.

When to Use and How Often

You can use 8% AHA Lotion Exfoliant up to twice daily—morning and evening—after cleansing and toning. If your skin is new to AHAs, start with once a day to let your skin adjust.

Because AHAs increase sun sensitivity, always apply sunscreen in the morning if you use the lotion as part of your AM routine.

Mistakes to Avoid

Don't combine this AHA lotion with other strong exfoliants (like BHA or retinol) in the same routine unless your skin is well accustomed. Over-exfoliating can cause irritation.

Avoid applying to broken, sunburned, or irritated skin. If stinging or redness occurs, reduce frequency or discontinue use.

Step-by-Step Routine

Cleanse and tone: Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser and apply your favorite toner. Wait a few minutes to ensure skin is completely dry before applying the AHA lotion. Checkpoint: Applying AHA to wet skin can increase irritation, so always wait until skin is dry.
Apply a small amount: Dispense a small amount of 8% AHA Lotion Exfoliant onto your fingertips and massage evenly over the desired area, such as face, neck, or body. Avoid the eye area. Checkpoint: A little goes a long way—using too much won't speed up results and may cause irritation.
Follow with moisturizer: After the lotion absorbs, apply your regular moisturizer to lock in hydration. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Checkpoint: Sun protection is non-negotiable when using AHAs, even on cloudy days.
Adjust frequency based on skin response: Start with once daily, preferably in the evening. If your skin tolerates it well, you can increase to twice daily—morning and evening—after cleansing and toning. Checkpoint: If you experience redness, stinging, or peeling, reduce to every other day and patch test on a small area first.

Product Spotlight

8% AHA Lotion Exfoliant: 8% AHA Lotion Exfoliant combines 8% glycolic acid with antioxidants and a hydrating lotion to help hold skin's moisture. This makes it a dual-action exfoliant that smooths rough skin while helping to maintain hydration, reducing the risk of dryness often associated with exfoliation.
8% AHA Lotion Exfoliant