The replay of Lactic Acid or Retinol? is now available!
When it comes to smoothing texture, refining the look of pores, and supporting more even-looking skin, most people end up in the same place:
Trying to figure out whether lactic acid or retinol makes more sense.
Both are known for helping improve the look and feel of skin over time, but they work in very different ways. And depending on your skin, your routine, and how you like your products to feel, one may fit a lot more naturally than the other.
That’s exactly what we’re breaking down in this live session.
We walk through the key differences between lactic acid and retinol, how each one works on the skin, and how to think about using one or both in a way that actually supports your routine instead of overwhelming it.
Because this is one of those areas where a little clarity can make a big difference in how your skin responds.
What We Cover in the Replay
Inside the replay, we get into:
- The real difference between lactic acid and retinol
How they function differently and what that means for your skin over time. - How to decide which one makes sense for you
Based on your skin type, your goals, and how your skin typically responds to active ingredients. - How to use them safely and effectively
Timing, frequency, and how to incorporate them into your routine without overdoing it. - What it looks like to use one vs. both
When it can make sense to keep things simple, and when alternating can be supportive.
We also spent time answering your questions live, which always brings in the most helpful, real-life context.
A Closer Look at the Formulas
During the event, we also took a deeper dive into a few of our most-loved formulas in this category:
- Botanical Lactic Toner
A gentle, fruit-derived lactic acid formula designed to smooth and soften the look of skin over time. It’s a leave-on toner, so you don’t have to rinse it off — just apply it at night and let it do its thing. - Resurfacing Facial Exfoliant
A honey-derived lactic acid exfoliant with a gel-like consistency that you use almost like a mask. You apply it, let it sit for a few minutes, and rinse it away to help skin feel smoother, softer, and more refined. - Activated Night Serum
Our retinol alternative, powered by Bioactive A-Complex, designed to support the look of smoother, more even, and firmer-feeling skin without the intensity that often comes with traditional retinol.
Seeing how these fit into a routine side by side helps take a lot of the guesswork out of choosing what to use and when.
Shop The Resurfacing Facial Exfoliant here: https://shop.annmariegianni.com/products/resurfacing-facial-exfoliant
Shop our retinol alternative, the Activated Night Serum here: https://shop.annmariegianni.com/products/activated-night-serum-retinol-alternative
Shop the Botanical Lactic Toner here: https://shop.annmariegianni.com/products/botanical-lactic-toner
Please note: Any special offers mentioned during the live event are no longer applicable.







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