5% Glycolic Acid

Revitalise dull, textured skin with our 5% glycolic acid serum - a mild AHA formula that gently exfoliates, accelerates cell turnover, fades dark spots and reveals a brighter, smoother complexion. Perfect for beginners or mildly sensitive skin, this lightweight serum smooths fine lines, refines pores, evens tone and enhances glow without the intensity of higher-strength options.

Key Benefits of This 5% Glycolic Acid Serum

Effective Yet Kind Exfoliation - Gently resurfaces for immediate smoothness and lasting clarity
Brightening & Discolouration Reduction - Targets dark spots, uneven tone and sun damage
Anti-Ageing & Firming - Supports collagen production and refines fine lines
Pore Refinement & Acne Support - Clears debris to minimise pores and reduce breakout likelihood
Hydration-Enhancing Finish - Leaves skin softer and more supple
The fast-absorbing, lightweight texture makes it easy to incorporate into evening routines without heaviness or stickiness.
Our 5% glycolic acid serum delivers an approachable yet powerful AHA experience. Glycolic acid - the smallest and most deeply penetrating alpha hydroxy acid, naturally derived from sugar cane - is a dermatologist favourite for improving texture, tone and early signs of ageing. At 5%, this concentration strikes an excellent balance: clinically effective exfoliation and brightening with far lower risk of redness, dryness or peeling than 10%+ formulas - making it ideal for beginners, those with mildly sensitive skin or anyone easing into chemical exfoliation in 2026.

Why 5% Glycolic Acid Is the Perfect Entry-to-Moderate Strength

Glycolic acid works by dissolving the "glue" that holds dead surface cells together, encouraging faster cell turnover to reveal fresher, smoother skin beneath. At 5% - a strength widely recommended for regular at-home use - it delivers visible improvements including:

Smoother texture and reduced roughness

Minimised appearance of enlarged pores

Brighter, more even complexion by fading hyperpigmentation, sun spots, dark marks and post-acne discolouration

Softened fine lines and improved firmness through collagen stimulation

Enhanced hydration retention (as AHAs can support the skin's natural moisturising factors)

Research and expert consensus show that consistent use of 5% glycolic acid noticeably improves skin smoothness, radiance and tone uniformity within 4-8 weeks, with progressive benefits to fine lines, elasticity and photo-ageing signs over longer periods. It is particularly well tolerated by normal-to-combination skin types and those who find stronger AHAs too harsh.

How to use :

After cleansing, apply 2-3 drops to dry face and neck. Pat gently until absorbed; do not rinse. Use in the evening only to begin with - start at 2-3 nights per week and increase gradually as your skin adjusts. Always follow with a nourishing moisturiser. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning without fail, as AHAs increase photosensitivity. Avoid layering with strong retinoids, other AHAs/BHAs or high-strength vitamin C at first to prevent over-exfoliation.

Who Should Choose This Serum?

Beginners to chemical exfoliants or those with mild sensitivity

Dull, rough or uneven skin needing brightness and refinement

Early fine lines, hyperpigmentation or sun damage concerns

Normal, combination or oily skin types wanting smoother texture

Anyone seeking gentle yet noticeable AHA results

Patch test first. Consult a dermatologist if pregnant, breastfeeding or using prescription treatments.

Fundamentals Skincare is:

Vegan friendly
Cruelty-free
Cosmeceutical grade
Fragrance-free
Made in South Africa
What's in the box
1 x Fundamentals 30ml Glass Amber Dropper Bottle