Lactic Acid

The Basics On Lactic Acid

What is Lactic Acid?

Alpha hydroxy acid extracted from milk, although most forms used in cosmetics are synthetic.

What are other names for Lactic Acid?

2-HYDROPROPANOIC ACID, 2-HYDROXY- PROPANOIC ACID, 2-HYDROXYPROPANOIC ACID, 2-HYDROXYPROPIONIC ACID, A-HYDROXYPROPANOIC ACID, LACTATE, LACTIC ACID, and PROPANOIC ACID, 2-HYDROXY-

What is Lactic Acid used for?

Lactic acid is a naturally derived acid from milk, fruit, vegetables and other plants. It’s commonly found in over-the-counter skin care products used for anti-aging and is also used in chemical peels. It has a reputation for being gentler and less irritating than glycolic acid as a chemical peel. Lactic acid is a member of a group of skincare acids called Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHA). Lactic acids and other AHAs are used mainly to exfoliate the skin. Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (also known as AHAs), often referred to as fruit acids, are a common ingredient found in many cosmeceutical products. In chemical terms, AHAs are carboxylic acids with one hydroxyl group attached to the Œ±-position of the carboxyl group1. AHAs are naturally occurring acids whose range of application extends from skin moisturizing, wrinkle reduction to deep chemical peeling agents of the skin2. They act by inducing exfoliation in our skin and accelerating the natural skin cell rejuvenation cycleAntiaging benefits similar to those imparted by glycolic acid have also been associated with lactic acid, which has been hypothesized to be part of the natural moisturizing factor of the skin that plays a role in hydration as a moisturizing agent3. It hydrates the skin, increases natural barrier lipids in the epidermis and lightens and brightens the look of skin for those with discoloration. AHAs improve skin texture and reduce the signs of aging by promoting cell shedding in the outer layers of the epidermis and by restoring hydration. The mechanism of action is not completely understood. One hypothesis suggests that AHAs reduce the calcium ion concentration in the epidermis and, through chelation, remove the ions from the cell adhesions, which are thereby disrupted, resulting in desquamation4.Lactic acid is considered to be a low-moderate risk ingredient for skincare use and should only be used within the recommended concentration limitations in skincare products5. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) expert panel concluded that glycolic and lactic acid are safe for use in cosmetic products at concentrations of 10 percent, “when formulated to avoid increasing sun sensitivity or when directions for use include the daily use of sun protection. .

How Lactic Acid is classified

Exfoliant

Recommendations for using Lactic Acid during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Limited data on using lactic acid while pregnant or breastfeeding suggests no known risk

Lactic Acid During Pregnancy

What we know about using Lactic Acid while pregnant or breastfeeding

Is lactic acid safe during pregnancy? There is limited information currently available on using lactic acid during pregnancy.

General safety info about Lactic Acid from CIR

No report found.

Use this, not that!

Products where you might find Lactic Acid

Sunday Riley GOOD GENES All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment, Olga Lorencin Skin Care Lactic Acid Hydrating Serum, DERMAdoctor Ain’t Misbehavin’ Healthy Toner with Glycolic & Lactic Acid; The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA, Biossance Squalane + 10% Lactic Acid Resurfacing Night Serum, SUNDAY RILEY Power Couple: Lactic Acid and Retinol Kit, Youth To The People Kombucha + 11% AHA Exfoliation Toner with Lactic Acid