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Lactic Acid for Skin

Lactic acid as a skincare ingredient dates back to ancient Egypt, when Cleopatra bathed in sour milk to improve the texture and appearance of her skin. This ingredient is a natural byproduct of plant and dairy fermentation, although in skincare it’s mainly created in a lab. Lactic acid is a gentle alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to both soften the skin while promoting the skin’s natural exfoliation process. Read on for some frequently asked questions about lactic acid.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lactic Acid

  • In skincare, lactic acid is an exfoliating alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps promote the breakdown of dead skin cells. By gently removing the buildup of dead skin cells, this ingredient helps to soften and smooth your skin and improve its overall texture. Lactic acid is also a component of the skin’s natural moisturising factor, or NMF, which is a blend of compounds naturally found in the skin that helps it hold on to moisture. By using products containing lactic acid, you also help to maintain the skin moisture barrier.

  • Lactic acid is a type of chemical exfoliant that helps to break down bonds between dead skin cells. The benefits of this ingredient include:

    • Promotes the natural skin cell renewal cycle
    • Removes dead skin cells to visibly improve skin texture for smoother skin.
    • Helps to visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles
    • A great gentle alternative to other alpha hydroxy acids (like glycolic acid) that can be harsh on dry or sensitive skin.
    • Hydrating properties for supporting the skin moisture barrier

  • Lactic acid is often used in combination with other skincare ingredients because of its gentle exfoliating benefits. A combination of alpha-hydroxy lactic acids and beta-hydroxy acids, like a salicylic acid can be especially effective in products for improving the texture of rough or bumpy skin.

  • This chemical exfoliant is quite gentle and low lactic acid concentration formulas can be used every day regardless of your skin type. However, like all chemical exfoliants, there is the minor risk of over-exfoliation, especially for sensitive skin, or in products containing higher concentrations or multiple exfoliants. Make sure to watch your skin for any skin irritation or dryness, as this may be a sign you need to cut back on lactic acid.

  • Yes! Lactic acid is an excellent exfoliating ingredient that can be used anywhere on the body, especially rough parts of the skin like the elbows, knees, and calluses.

  • Sun protection is necessary every day, especially after using any type of alpha hydroxy acid. Chemcial exfoliants like lactic acid can leave the skin more sensitive to sun damage, which is why sun protection is an absolute must. During the day, always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen following any lactic acid product and the rest of your skincare products.
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