# Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Arab Emirates.

Brand: [Paula's Choice](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/paula-s-choice)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for dry skin; other products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your dry skin due to the presence of mandelic acid and lactic acid, which provide gentle chemical exfoliation to smooth texture.
- While the exfoliation is effective, the formula lacks sufficient emollient and occlusive ingredients to adequately address your dryness.
- The product is safe for your dry skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin): Average (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Mandelic Acid, Lactic Acid, Myrica Cerifera Fruit Extract, Lactobacillus Lysate Ferment, Achillea Millefolium Extract

## What the research says

- Treatment with 45% mandelic acid peel showed nearly equal overall efficacy as 30% salicylic acid peel in patients with mild-to-moderate facial acne vulgaris, but with fewer adverse effects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31553119/))
- Chemical peels using 35% glycolic acid, 20% salicylic-10% mandelic acid, and phytic acid reduce acne scores by 70.55%, 74.14%, and 69.7% respectively, and significantly decline the postacne hyperpigmentation index in Asian patients with mild to moderate acne. ([Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31619887/))
- Commonly used chemical peels showed no significant differences in effectiveness for acne vulgaris in most comparisons, though combined salicylic and mandelic acid peeling was superior to glycolic acid and glycolic acid was superior to placebo, based on twelve randomized controlled trials. ([BMJ Open, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29705755/))
- Application of a cream containing lactic acid 12% and pramoxine HCl 1% significantly improved skin dryness, hydration, and itch compared with a nontreated control in 24 women with a history of dry itchy skin. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15027519/))
- Topical 12% ammonium lactate produced a significant sparing of epidermal and dermal atrophy induced by clobetasol propionate in human volunteers, without influencing the corticosteroid's bioavailability or antiinflammatory properties. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1597538/))
- A lactic acid/ceramide lotion significantly improved skin moisturization and desquamation compared to no treatment in women with dry, rough skin on the anterior shins. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33178384/))
- Myricetin nanofibers (MyNF) enhanced water solubility and skin penetration, reduced cytotoxicity, and showed better antioxidant and photoprotective activity than raw myricetin in a UVB-induced HaCaT keratinocytes damage model. ([Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36986766/))
- Myricetin suppresses UVB-induced wrinkle formation, epidermal thickening, and MMP-9 expression by inhibiting Raf kinase activity in mouse skin. ([Biochemical Pharmacology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20093107/))
- Myricetin suppresses cell proliferation, induces cell cycle arrest and calcium influx, enhances differentiation markers, and promotes tight junction formation in mouse primary keratinocytes via TRPV4 channel activation. ([International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39907058/))
- Probiotic-derived lotion successfully reduced inflammatory acne lesion counts and erythema index comparably to 2.5% benzoyl peroxide in patients with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris, while causing fewer side effects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35384257/))
- Topical application of Lactobacillus plantarum-GMNL6 enhanced collagen synthesis and SPTSSA gene expression while reducing melanin synthesis, Staphylococcus aureus biofilm, and Cutibacterium acnes proliferation, leading to clinical improvements in skin moisture, color, spots, wrinkles, UV spots, and porphyrins in human volunteers. ([International Journal of Medical Sciences, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33526970/))
- Lactobacillus plantarum extracellular vesicles modulated extracellular matrix related gene expression in vitro and suppressed wrinkle formation and pigmentation in clinical trials. ([Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35723322/))
- Topical application of yarrow oil extracts demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by successfully restoring skin pH, hydration, and erythema index to baseline values in artificially irritated skin of volunteers. ([Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163113/))
- Treatment with 2% Achillea millefolium extract significantly improved the appearance of wrinkles and pores compared with placebo in human skin over a 2-month period. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21711463/))
- Achillea millefolium essential oil demonstrated bacteriostatic activity against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, and topical treatment with 1% and 2% AMEO significantly increased wound closure percentages and hydroxyproline content compared to the non-treatment group in rats. ([Journal of Pharmacopuncture, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37405118/))

## Why other products fit dry skin better

- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- Treatment with cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based microneedle patches combined with acetyl hexapeptide-8 or epidermal growth factor significantly improved wrinkles and skin hydration compared to the patch alone in Korean females over 29 days. ([Annals of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33911590/))

## What reviewers say

It is frequently reported to improve skin texture, impart a noticeable glow, and reduce redness and dark spots without causing irritation. Some users dislike the natural scent, and a small number experienced initial breakouts or found the price and bottle size to be less than ideal.

- Liked: Extremely gentle (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens and glows (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight feel (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Reduces redness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Price vs. size (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant as part of your PM routine once a week, increasing slowly to twice a week if your dry skin tolerates it well. Always remember to apply SPF every morning to protect your newly smoothed skin.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but always before your rich moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb for a minute. Avoid rubbing to prevent any irritation on flaky areas.
- Apply the product directly to dry clean skin to ensure the best possible tolerance for your dry type. This helps address flaky patches without causing extra stress.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a quick patch test before your very first use. Do not mix this with other strong acids or retinoids on the same night.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Paula's Choice 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant work for dry skin?

This exfoliant works moderately well for dry skin by gently smoothing texture, though other products fit this skin type better. While it is safe and unlikely to cause irritation, it lacks sufficient ingredients to adequately address dryness. A product of this type needs rich hydrating and skin barrier supporting ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, peptides, or propolis to properly nourish dry skin.

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a good fit for dry skin?

Mandelic acid and lactic acid make this exfoliant a good fit by providing gentle chemical exfoliation to smooth texture on dry skin. To truly fit dry skin well, a product of this type needs rich hydrating and skin barrier supporting ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and peptides.

### What does Mandelic Acid do for dry skin?

Mandelic acid helps keep dry skin smooth and hydrated while improving overall texture. When combined with nourishing ingredients like Centella asiatica, it can also significantly improve skin firmness and reduce crepiness without causing excessive irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42696337/)

### What does Lactic Acid do for dry skin?

Lactic acid helps relieve dry skin by drawing in moisture and strengthening the skin's barrier so it stays soft and smooth. This ingredient gently sheds dead cells and supports natural moisturizing factors, making it very useful for improving rough or flaky areas.
Sources: [International Journal of Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40231699/), [Skin Research and Technology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23521561/)

### Where does this exfoliant go in a skincare routine for dry skin?

This exfoliant goes in your evening routine, starting at once a week so you can see how your skin reacts before using it more often. It is unlikely to irritate your skin, but because it lacks rich moisturizing and protective ingredients, dry skin needs nourishing creams and rich moisturizers added to the routine to stay smooth and comfortable.

### Can I use this exfoliant with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this exfoliant and retinol in the same routine by alternating the nights you apply them to prevent excessive dryness and flaking. Since both ingredients actively renew the surface, using them on different days helps keep your dry skin calm and smooth without causing irritation.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week in the evening, and if your skin handles it well without irritation, you can carefully use it more often. This product works for dry skin, though it needs added rich moisturizers and barrier-protecting ingredients to keep skin soft and comfortable.

### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry skin?

This exfoliant is unlikely to cause irritation for your dry skin, though initial breakouts may happen as your skin adjusts to the acids. An exfoliant for dry skin needs extra moisturizing and softening ingredients to keep your skin smooth and comfortable.

### Is this exfoliant fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 347.75 at Amazon
- [ma:nyo Bifida Biome Complex Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/ma-nyo/bifida-biome-complex-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 99.12 at Amazon
- [Missha The First Essence 5X](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/missha/the-first-essence-5x/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 113.05 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 32.95 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 34.80 at Amazon
- SPF: [Dr.G Green Mild Up Sun+](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dr-g/green-mild-up-sun/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — AED 81.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ae: AED 99.70 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B0CRC94LRR?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, 2,3-Butanediol, Mandelic Acid, Lactic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Myrica Cerifera Fruit Extract, Akebia Quinata Stem Extract Chocolate Vine Stem Extract, Prunus Lannesiana Flower Extract Cherry Blossom Flower Extract, Lactobacillus Lysate Ferment, Saccharomyces Lysate, Achillea Millefolium Extract, Saccharide Isomerate, Arginine, Hydroxyacetophenone, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Phytate, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Benzoate
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-perfecting-6-mandelic-acid-2-lactic-acid-liquid-exfoliant/for/dry-skin (this page)