The benefits of lactic acid

A gentle giant in the skincare world, lactic acid is the gentlest member of the alpha hydroxy acid family, but no less effective than its cousins, which include glycolic acid, mandelic acid, and citric acid. Naturally derived from dairy products, the use of lactic acid for skin dates back to the time of Cleopatra, when the Egyptian queen bathed in milk for smoother, softer, and youthful-looking skin. Today, lactic acid can be found in all kinds of products, including cleansers, toners, creams, serums, lotions, peels, and masks. Want to learn more about this incredible acid and wondering which lactic acid skin care product best suits your needs? Learn more by continuing to read…

WHAT IS LACTIC ACID?

A low-concentration alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), lactic acid is a gentle alternative to other AHAs, offering many of the same benefits—but without the sensitivity. Although it can be found in dairy products, many lactic acid skin care products are made using synthetic sources, meaning they are vegan and not tested on animals.

HOW DOES LACTIC ACID WORK? Like all alpha hydroxy acids, lactic acid exfoliates the skin by breaking down the proteins that bind cells together, speeding up the cell regeneration process and removing dead cells from the skin's surface. Compared to other AHAs, lactic acid has larger molecules and cannot penetrate the skin as deeply as the others. Instead, lactic acid acts on the epidermis - the top layer of the skin. This low level penetration provides better protection for the skin barrier and reduces the chances of irritation for those with sensitive skin.

WHY IS LACTIC ACID DIFFERENT FROM OTHER AHAs?

A big advantage of lactic acid is that, unlike other AHAs, it helps hydrate the skin and enhance the skin's natural moisturizing factor, making it ideal for people with dry or sensitive skin.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF LACTIC ACID FOR THE SKIN?

In addition to hydration, lactic acid has a multitude of benefits. First, it improves skin tone and texture, makes it softer and smoother, evens skin tone, brightens the complexion and fades hyperpigmentation, age spots and sun spots.

Reducing the appearance of pores, lactic acid for acne-prone skin is effective not only because it clears pores and excess oil, but also because it's antimicrobial, keeping bacteria at bay and helping to reduce acne breakouts.

As an anti-aging ingredient, lactic acid stimulates collagen regeneration and, when used in concentrations of 12%, improves skin firmness and thickness, helping to plump the skin and diminish fine lines and wrinkles.

Used in topical preparations to treat eczema, psoriasis and rosacea, the multifunctional acid also works wonders on the body. Lactic acid is a key ingredient in many creams and lotions used to treat keratosis pilaris, as it helps dissolve the keratin plugs that build up around hair follicles, smoothing the skin.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF LACTIC ACID?

Even though lactic acid is milder than other AHAs, it has the potential to cause skin irritation. Slight burning, itching or redness may occur when you first use lactic acid, and you should not worry as long as it is mild and disappears within an hour. If symptoms persist after sixty minutes or if they become more intense, immediately rinse the lactic acid product from the skin.

One of the main things to be aware of with lactic acid for the face and body is that it can increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun. Studies have suggested that this sensitivity can last for at least four weeks after you stop using lactic acid, so it's essential to apply a product with SPF30 or higher.

WHO SHOULD USE LACTIC ACID?

Lactic acid is safe and effective for all skin types and is even suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It's especially beneficial for dry, mature and sensitive skin, making it a great starter acid for those wary of exfoliating with AHAs.

People with very sensitive skin are advised to start slowly with a low-concentration lactic acid (about 5%) and gradually increase the frequency of use. If your skin becomes irritated, stop using the product. Never use lactic acid on inflamed or irritated skin and avoid the ingredient if you are lactose intolerant.

HOW SHOULD LACTIC ACID BE USED?

Found in many skin care products, including creams, lotions, masks, peels, cleansers, and topical treatments, lactic acid is available in concentrations ranging from 5% to 30%. Start by using a low concentration product every other day and see how your skin reacts before increasing the frequency or concentration of lactic acid.

Avoid using lactic acid with other AHAs, retinoids or harsh scrubs, as these can cause irritation and damage the skin's natural barrier.