# The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: Superior · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin

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

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/exfoliators)

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

One of the best products for dry sensitive skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your dry and sensitive skin as lactic acid provides effective exfoliation and hydration, while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer offer superior humectant action. Pentylene glycol further enhances emollient properties, ensuring a smooth and comfortable feel.
- Tasmannia lanceolata leaf extract complements the formula by soothing irritation and reducing redness, making it ideal for your sensitive skin.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no harsh ingredients and a good balance of soothing and hydrating components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dark-spots): Superior
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Lactic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Tasmannia Lanceolata Leaf Extract Fruit, Acacia Senegal Gum

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Exposure of epidermal full-thickness skin equivalents to a blend of betaine, pentylene glycol, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Rhodiola rosea root extract significantly increased antioxidant, skin barrier, and oxidative stress biomarkers while reducing the negative impact of hydrogen peroxide on MMP3, MMP12, FBN2, ANXA1, and HGF, whereas a blend of Narcissus tazetta bulb extract and Schisandra chinensis fruit extract significantly increased 8 growth factors, 7 signaling, 7 structural/barrier function, 7 oxidative stress biomarkers, and specific microRNAs over control levels. ([International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30373163/))
- 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/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Topical Tasmannia lanceolata extract reduced skin roughness, increased firmness, dermal density, and thickness of stabilized stretch marks compared to placebo in 29 women over 8 weeks, alongside increased pro-collagen I, elastin, and TGF-beta concentrations in ex vivo human skin explants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33048421/))
- Acacia gum and carbopol hydrogel wound dressings containing gentamicin showed faster wound healing, well-developed fibroblasts, and blood capillaries compared to open wounds in swiss albino mice. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24075861/))
- Barley beta-glucan films formulated with sorbitol and acacia gum demonstrated suitable mechanical properties and stimulated in vitro keratinocytes growth. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37028573/))
- Gum arabic and beta-cyclodextrin microencapsulated peony seed oil emulsion protected against ultraviolet radiation by inhibiting reactive oxygen species generation, increasing cell viability from 54.75% to 92.69% in UVB-damaged HaCaT cells, and repairing 95.56% of UVB-damaged skin within 7 days in animal experiments through regulation of the NF-kappaB signaling pathway. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41734836/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with dry, sensitive, or textured skin frequently praise this serum for its ability to gently exfoliate without compromising the moisture barrier. The majority of reviews report a noticeable improvement in skin smoothness and radiance, with many noting it effectively reduces flakiness and mild acne scars over time.

- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too mild (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your exfoliant PM once a week to help with dryness. Start ⏳3 times a week only if your sensitive skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but always before your favorite moisturizer .
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and avoid any rubbing. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before layering.
- Since your skin is reactive and sensitive, apply the exfoliant on completely dry skin for better tolerance.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% one of the best fits for dry sensitive skin?

This exfoliant is one of the best fits because lactic acid smooths dry skin while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate draw in deep hydration. At the same time, tasmannia lanceolata leaf extract calms irritation and redness, making it very safe and comfortable for sensitive skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Lactic acid gives this exfoliant a gentle way to smooth skin while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate draw in deep moisture to keep dry skin comfortable. Tasmannia lanceolata leaf extract also helps calm redness and irritation, making it very safe and soothing for sensitive skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Lactic acid helps hydrate dry skin, but for sensitive skin it may cause stinging and irritation unless it is formulated with soothing ingredients like colloidal oat or tangerine fruit extract to calm discomfort.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36575892/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33500646/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for dry sensitive skin?

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for dry, sensitive skin because it brings a large boost in hydration, making the skin feel soft and smooth while improving barrier function. It helps calm tightness and dryness, and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/), [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/)

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

This treatment goes in your evening routine once a week to gently smooth and hydrate your skin, and you may carefully use it more often if your skin tolerates it well. It is very well suited for dry, sensitive skin because it provides gentle exfoliation alongside soothing plant extracts and ingredients that draw in moisture.

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

It is best to use this exfoliant on nights when you do not apply retinol to help prevent irritation on dry and sensitive skin. Using them on separate nights allows lactic acid to smooth your skin while protecting your delicate skin barrier.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant treatment once a week in the evening, and if your skin feels comfortable, you can carefully use it more often. Lactic acid gently lifts away dead skin cells while hydrating and soothing ingredients help keep your skin calm and smooth.

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry sensitive skin, as it has a very safe formula with soothing ingredients that calm irritation and redness. Some people may experience mild purging when starting an exfoliant, but the added hydration helps keep skin smooth and comfortable.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £143.35 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £36.96 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £248.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Real Barrier Mild Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/real-barrier/mild-sun-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £19.01 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £6.16 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01NA0F3FB?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Propanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Tasmannia Lanceolata Leaf Extract Fruit, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Isoceteth-20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol
## 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/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/lactic-acid-5-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin