# Lactobionic acid and citric acid

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid

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

Work well together

Use them together by applying [citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid) first and [lactobionic acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/lactobionic-acid) second, because lactobionic acid calms irritation and adds soothing moisture. Citric acid gently removes dull surface skin, while lactobionic acid adds hydration and reduces the sting of exfoliation. You can switch to a gentler strength or apply them on alternate days if your skin feels sensitive.

[The use of polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) in photoaged skin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15002656/) [A polyhydroxy acid skin care regimen provides antiaging effects comparable to an alpha-hydroxyacid regimen](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15002657/)

- [All about lactobionic acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/lactobionic-acid)
- [All about citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid)

### [Lactobionic acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/lactobionic-acid) products

- [Verb Ghost Exfoliating Scalp Nectar](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/verb/ghost-exfoliating-scalp-nectar/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit
- [Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Moisture Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/elemis/pro-collagen-marine-moisture-essence/for/mature-skin) — Average fit — [$95.00 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RTFMJQ9?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Elemis Pro-Collagen Tri-Acid Peel](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/elemis/pro-collagen-tri-acid-peel/for/dark-spots) — High fit
- [Skintific AHA BHA PHA LHA Peeling Solution](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skintific/aha-bha-pha-lha-peeling-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit
- [Benton PHA Peeling Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/benton/pha-peeling-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit
- [VT COSMETICS Cica Skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/vt-cosmetics/cica-skin/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit
- [Estée Lauder Perfectly Clean Multi-Action Toning Lotion/Refiner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/estee-lauder/perfectly-clean-multi-action-toning-lotion-refiner/for/oily-skin) — High fit — [$27.20 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CAUJJM8?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [COSRX Full Fit Propolis Synergy Pad](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/full-fit-propolis-synergy-pad/for/mature-skin) — High fit
- [MZ Skin Cleanse & Clarify Dual Action AHA Cleanser & Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/mz-skin/cleanse-and-clarify-dual-action-aha-cleanser-and-mask/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — [$90.00 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D51WHLZ1?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [MZ Skin Radiance & Renewal Instant Clarity Refining Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/mz-skin/radiance-and-renewal-instant-clarity-refining-mask/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — [$193.00 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JC6S9HN?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

### [Citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid) products

- [The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/salicylic-acid-2-solution/for/dry-skin) — Average fit — [$6.70 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C3PCJ6SD?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soap (Baby Unscented)](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-bronner-s/pure-castile-liquid-soap-baby-unscented/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Average fit
- [Thayers Hydrating Milky Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/thayers/hydrating-milky-toner/for/dry-skin) — High fit — [$13.25 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BQCRH6D8?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Seven Minerals Organic Aloe Vera Gel](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/seven-minerals/organic-aloe-vera-gel/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Average fit
- [SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/blemish-age-defense/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit
- [Naturie Hatomugi Skin Conditioner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/naturie/hatomugi-skin-conditioner/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit
- [E45 Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/e45/cream/for/dry-skin) — High fit — [$9.99 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DDMDOYK?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [NATURIUM BHA Liquid Exfoliant 2%](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/naturium/bha-liquid-exfoliant-2/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — [$18.99 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08881VH6J?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Dr. Sam's Flawless Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/dr-sam-s/flawless-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — High fit
- [Kiehl's Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/kiehl-s/calendula-deep-cleansing-foaming-face-wash/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — [$39.00 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O19W9UA?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Neutrogena Hydro Boost Micellar Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neutrogena/hydro-boost-micellar-water/for/dark-spots) — Average fit — [$11.91 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CLSZX63K?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Garnier SkinActive Blackhead Eliminating Scrub](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/garnier-skinactive/blackhead-eliminating-scrub/for/oily-skin) — Low fit — [$8.69 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IWNPTD0?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

## Questions and answers

### Which goes first, lactobionic acid or citric acid?

[Lactobionic acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/lactobionic-acid) and [citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid) work well together to provide gentle exfoliation and antioxidant protection. Combining them helps hydrate skin and may reduce irritation.

## Research on lactobionic acid and citric acid

- [Clinical evaluation of the efficacy of a facial serum containing dioic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, LHA, citric acid, and HEPES in treating post-inflammatory hyperchromia and controlling oily skin in patients with acne vulgaris](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33617668/) Citric acid · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021
- [Effects of lactobionic acid peel, aluminum oxide crystal microdermabrasion, and both procedures on skin hydration, elasticity, and transepidermal water loss](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30661294/) Lactobionic acid · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019
- [Lactobionic acid in a natural alkylpolyglucoside-based vehicle: assessing safety and efficacy aspects in comparison to glycolic acid](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20367666/) Lactobionic acid · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010
- [A 10% Lactobionic acid-containing moisturizer reduces skin surface pH without irritation-An in vivo/in vitro study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30859734/) Lactobionic acid · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019
- [Comparison of clindamycin 1% and benzoyl peroxide 5% gel to a novel composition containing salicylic acid, capryloyl salicylic acid, HEPES, glycolic acid, citric acid, and dioic acid in the treatment of acne vulgaris](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23545907/) Citric acid · Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2013

## Other combinations

- Keep them apart: [Benzoyl peroxide and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/benzoyl-peroxide-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Retinol and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/retinol-and-citric-acid)
- Depends on the strength: [Niacinamide and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/niacinamide-and-citric-acid)
- Work well together: [Sodium lactate and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/sodium-lactate-and-citric-acid)
- Work well together: [Citric acid and tromethamine](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid-and-tromethamine)
- Depends on the strength: [Niacinamide and lactobionic acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/niacinamide-and-lactobionic-acid)
- Work well together: [Hyaluronic acid and lactobionic acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/hyaluronic-acid-and-lactobionic-acid)
- Work well together: [Betaine and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/betaine-and-citric-acid)
- Work well together: [Glycerin and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/glycerin-and-citric-acid)
- Depends on the strength: [Hyaluronic acid and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/hyaluronic-acid-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Acetyl hexapeptide-3 and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/acetyl-hexapeptide-3-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Bio-placenta peptides and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/bio-placenta-peptides-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Carnosine and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/carnosine-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Collagen peptide and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/collagen-peptide-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Copper peptide and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/copper-peptide-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Hexapeptide and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/hexapeptide-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Citric acid and hexapeptide-9](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid-and-hexapeptide-9)
- Keep them apart: [Citric acid and palmitoyl pentapeptide-4](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid-and-palmitoyl-pentapeptide-4)
- Keep them apart: [Citric acid and palmitoyl tripeptide-1](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid-and-palmitoyl-tripeptide-1)
- Keep them apart: [Citric acid and peptide-rich plasma](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid-and-peptide-rich-plasma)
- Keep them apart: [Citric acid and triple peptide blend](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid-and-triple-peptide-blend)
- Keep them apart: [Adapalene and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/adapalene-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Granactive retinoid and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/granactive-retinoid-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Hydroxypinacolone retinoate and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/hydroxypinacolone-retinoate-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Pro-retinol and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/pro-retinol-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Retinal and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/retinal-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Retinoid blend and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/retinoid-blend-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Tretinoin and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/tretinoin-and-citric-acid)
- Work well together: [AHA blend glycolic and citric acids and lactobionic acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/aha-blend-glycolic-and-citric-acids-and-lactobionic-acid)
- Work well together: [Gluconolactone and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/gluconolactone-and-citric-acid)
- Work well together: [Glycolic acid and lactobionic acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/glycolic-acid-and-lactobionic-acid)
- Work well together: [Lactic acid and lactobionic acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/lactic-acid-and-lactobionic-acid)
- Work well together: [Mandelic acid and lactobionic acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/mandelic-acid-and-lactobionic-acid)
- Work well together: [Vitamin C and lactobionic acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/vitamin-c-and-lactobionic-acid)
- Work well together: [Cholesterol and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/cholesterol-and-citric-acid)
- Work well together: [Citric acid and lauric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid-and-lauric-acid)
- Work well together: [Linoleic acid and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/linoleic-acid-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Citric acid and tri-ceramide complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid-and-tri-ceramide-complex)
- Work well together: [Arginine and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/arginine-and-citric-acid)
- Work well together: [Citric acid and GABA](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid-and-gaba)
- Work well together: [Silk amino acids and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/silk-amino-acids-and-citric-acid)
- Work well together: [Taurine and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/taurine-and-citric-acid)
- Work well together: [Citric acid and theanine](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid-and-theanine)
- Work well together: [Salicylic acid and lactobionic acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/salicylic-acid-and-lactobionic-acid)
- Work well together: [Ferulic acid and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/ferulic-acid-and-citric-acid)
- Work well together: [Vitamin E and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/vitamin-e-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Azelaic acid and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/azelaic-acid-and-citric-acid)
- Keep them apart: [Salicylic acid and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/salicylic-acid-and-citric-acid)
- Work well together: [Allantoin and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/allantoin-and-citric-acid)
- Work well together: [Citric acid and bisabolol](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/citric-acid-and-bisabolol)
- Work well together: [Panthenol and citric acid](https://lovi.care/skincare/ingredients/panthenol-and-citric-acid)

## About the Lovi Fit

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

Lovi checks every pairing 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 pairing advice: 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/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/ingredients/lactobionic-acid-and-citric-acid