Lactic Acid

Lactic acid is an exfoliating acid that belongs to the alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) family. This ingredient is derived from sour milk or sugar-rich foods and it is a water-soluble substance that possesses larger molecules than other AHAs such as glycolic acid. This is due to its large molecules, lactic acid won’t penetrate deeper into the skin and will instead work on the surface, which leads to a lighter degree of exfoliation.

What Does Lactic Acid Do To The Skin?

Lactic acid is a well-known to effectively moisturize the skin and because it is naturally present in the gut and skin it contributes to the cell cycle in human keratinocytes (the skin cells). It can successfully acidify the skin, which means that when our skin is exposed to more alkaline environments that can have a negative effect on the epidermis, lactic acid can effectively bring the pH level of the skin back to normal.

Besides this, here are a few other benefits of lactic acid on the skin:

• Lactic acid helps to remove old, dull cells on the skin's surface by dissolving the bonds that hold them together. This process is called exfoliation.

• Lactic acid speeds up cell rejuvenation and stimulates cell renewal (the processes by which your skin sloughs old cells and replaces them with new ones. As a result, it gives you a brighter complexion, as well as smoother and softer skin).

• All alpha hydroxy acids exfoliate and improve skin texture, but lactic acid has an extra benefit you won't get from other AHAs, like glycolic acid and mandelic acid.

• It helps to improve the skin's natural moisture factor, or the way the skin keeps itself hydrated.2Basically, lactic acid helps to keep the skin moisturized and feeling less dry.

• When you use lactic acid regularly, it can also improve signs of aging. It does so by stimulating the renewal of fiber that aids  to keep the skin firm.

• Lactic acid is also a main ingredient in products for clearing textured skin.

• Hydrates the skin.

• It brings the pH level of the skin back to normal.

• Fades hyperpigmentation.

• It can have a mild effect on acne due to its exfoliating properties.

How To Start Using Lactic Acid?

• As with all chemical exfoliants, it is important to start introducing lactic acid into your skincare routine slowly and always opt for a lower concentration when first starting out.

  Depending on the formula, initial tingling is pretty normal, especially if your skin is dehydrated or super sensitive, however, if this initial tingling becomes uncomfortable burning, this may mean that the product is too strong for you, therefore, you should wash it off and opt for something else instead.

  Additionally, make sure to always follow up with a high SPF in the morning as lactic acid can make your skin sensitive to the sun.

Can You Combine Lactic Acid With Other Actives?

Lactic acid is still a strong exfoliant on its own, so combining it with other active ingredients is really unnecessary because this can potentially increase redness, irritations, and sun sensitivity.

Combining lactic acid with other actives isn’t a good idea. A good solution to this would be to alternate your actives and use them on different days.

Does Lactic Acid  Clear skin?

Lactic acid is a type of AHA present in many exfoliating skin care products. It removes the top layer of the dead skin cells and can help improve skin texture, reduce dark spots, smooth fine lines, and cleanse pores