What is Lactic Acid?

Lactic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk that is commonly used in skincare for its exfoliating properties. It helps to gently remove dead skin cells, promote cell turnover, and improve skin texture and hydration.

How does this ingredient work in skincare?

Lactic Acid works in skincare by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells on the skin's surface, facilitating their removal and promoting a smoother, more radiant complexion. As an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), it penetrates the skin to stimulate cell turnover and increase collagen production, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Additionally, lactic acid has humectant properties, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin, thereby enhancing hydration and improving overall skin texture. Its mild exfoliating action makes it suitable for sensitive skin, offering effective results with minimal irritation.

How does this ingredient compare to others or work with others?

Lactic Acid, compared to other alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid, is milder and better suited for sensitive skin due to its larger molecular size, which allows for slower penetration and reduced irritation. It works synergistically with other AHAs and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) like salicylic acid to enhance exfoliation and improve skin texture. 

When combined with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, lactic acid can help to maintain skin hydration while exfoliating, minimizing the risk of dryness. Additionally, it pairs well with antioxidants such as vitamin C, boosting the skin's brightness and overall health by promoting cell turnover and collagen production.

Potential benefits of this ingredient for the skin

Lactic Acid offers several potential benefits for the skin:

• Exfoliation: Gently removes dead skin cells, revealing a smoother and brighter complexion.
• Cell Turnover: Promotes faster cell renewal, helping to improve skin texture and tone.
• Hydration: Acts as a humectant, attracting and retaining moisture, which enhances skin hydration and plumpness.
• Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Stimulates collagen production, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
• Pigmentation: Helps to lighten hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and acne scars, promoting a more even skin tone.
• Acne: Can help to unclog pores and reduce acne breakouts by exfoliating and removing impurities.
• Sensitive Skin: Suitable for sensitive skin due to its gentle nature compared to other AHAs.

Products we use this ingredient in

Purslane Prebiotic Moisturizer

References

• Huang, Huey-Chun et al. “Lactic Acid Bacteria and Lactic Acid for Skin Health and Melanogenesis Inhibition.” Current pharmaceutical biotechnology vol. 21,7 (2020): 566-577. doi:10.2174/1389201021666200109104701
• Feng, Xiaoyue et al. “Lactic Acid Chemical Peeling in Skin Disorders.” Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology vol. 17 901-909. 23 Apr. 2024, doi:10.2147/CCID.S455700
• Algiert-Zielińska, Barbara et al. “Lactic and lactobionic acids as typically moisturizing compounds.” International journal of dermatology vol. 58,3 (2019): 374-379. doi:10.1111/ijd.14202
• Tang, Sheau-Chung, and Jen-Hung Yang. “Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 23,4 863. 10 Apr. 2018, doi:10.3390/molecules23040863
• Smith, W P. “Comparative effectiveness of alpha-hydroxy acids on skin properties.” International journal of cosmetic science vol. 18,2 (1996): 75-83. doi:10.1111/j.1467-2494.1996.tb00137.x