Exfoliation is key to maintaining healthy, glowing skin, and Lactic Acid is one of the most popular and gentle chemical exfoliants available.
Part of the alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) family, Lactic Acid is derived from milk and is known for its ability to slough off dead skin cells, brighten the complexion, and improve skin texture.
Unlike stronger exfoliants, Lactic Acid is less likely to cause irritation, making it a fantastic option for sensitive skin types.
In this blog, we’ll dive into how Lactic Acid works, its benefits, and how to incorporate it into your skincare routine for smooth, radiant skin.
What is Lactic Acid?
Lactic Acid is a water-soluble alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. By gently exfoliating these cells, Lactic Acid helps to reveal the fresher, smoother skin underneath. Derived from milk, it has been used for centuries in skincare, dating back to ancient Egyptian beauty treatments.
As a mild exfoliant, Lactic Acid is less aggressive than other AHAs like glycolic acid, making it suitable for people with sensitive skin who want the benefits of chemical exfoliation without the risk of irritation.
The Benefits of Lactic Acid in Skincare
1. Gently Exfoliates and Smooths Skin
Lactic Acid is highly effective at gently exfoliating the skin’s surface, removing dead skin cells and encouraging cell turnover. This helps to smooth rough patches, improve texture, and leave your skin feeling softer and more refined. Regular use of Lactic Acid can help to keep your skin smooth and even over time.
2. Brightens and Evens Out Skin Tone
One of Lactic Acid’s standout benefits is its ability to brighten the complexion and even out skin tone. By exfoliating away the top layer of dull, dead skin cells, it helps to reveal the brighter, more radiant skin underneath. Lactic Acid is particularly beneficial for reducing hyperpigmentation, sunspots, and dark marks caused by acne.
3. Hydrates and Moisturizes
Unlike some exfoliants that can be drying, Lactic Acid is known for its hydrating properties. It helps the skin retain moisture by increasing the production of natural ceramides, which are lipids that form the skin’s protective barrier. This makes Lactic Acid ideal for people with dry or dehydrated skin who want to exfoliate without losing moisture.
4. Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Lactic Acid also promotes collagen production, which is essential for maintaining skin firmness and elasticity. By encouraging cell turnover and collagen synthesis, Lactic Acid helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving your skin looking more youthful and plump over time.
5. Improves the Appearance of Large Pores
By keeping the skin clear of dead cells and excess oil, Lactic Acid helps to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. Its exfoliating action ensures that your pores remain unclogged, preventing blackheads and making pores appear smaller and less noticeable.
How Lactic Acid Works in Skincare
Lactic Acid works by loosening the bonds that hold dead skin cells together on the surface of the skin. Once these bonds are broken, the dead cells slough off, revealing fresher, brighter skin underneath. This process of exfoliation also encourages the production of new skin cells, promoting a more even skin tone and improving texture.
In addition to its exfoliating properties, Lactic Acid is a humectant, meaning it helps the skin retain moisture. This dual action of exfoliation and hydration makes Lactic Acid a gentle yet effective option for smoothing and brightening the skin without causing irritation or dryness.
How to Use Lactic Acid in Your Skincare Routine
1. Start with a Low Concentration
Lactic Acid comes in various strengths, typically ranging from 5% to 10% for over-the-counter products. If you’re new to Lactic Acid or have sensitive skin, start with a lower concentration (around 5%) to minimize the risk of irritation. As your skin builds tolerance, you can gradually increase the strength of the product.
- Tip: Look for Lactic Acid in serums, toners, or exfoliating pads, which can be easily integrated into your routine.
2. Apply at Night
Like most exfoliating acids, Lactic Acid can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. For this reason, it’s best to use Lactic Acid at night and follow up with sunscreen during the day to protect your skin from UV damage.
- PM Routine: Cleanse → Lactic Acid Serum/Toner → Moisturizer
3. Use 2-3 Times a Week
If you’re just starting with Lactic Acid, use it 2-3 times per week to avoid over-exfoliation. Once your skin adjusts, you can increase usage based on your skin’s tolerance and needs. Over-exfoliating can lead to irritation, redness, and damage to the skin barrier, so it’s important to use Lactic Acid sparingly and build up gradually.
4. Pair with Hydrating Ingredients
Since Lactic Acid exfoliates and increases cell turnover, it’s important to pair it with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to keep your skin moisturized. Using a gentle, hydrating moisturizer after applying Lactic Acid will help lock in moisture and prevent any potential dryness or irritation.
5. Avoid Combining with Other Exfoliants
To avoid over-exfoliating, don’t use Lactic Acid in the same routine as other strong exfoliants like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or retinoids. Instead, alternate between exfoliating products on different nights to give your skin time to heal and regenerate.
Who Should Use Lactic Acid?
1. People with Dry or Dehydrated Skin
Lactic Acid’s hydrating properties make it an excellent choice for people with dry or dehydrated skin. While it exfoliates, it also helps to retain moisture in the skin, ensuring that your skin stays smooth and hydrated even after exfoliation.
2. Sensitive Skin Types
If you have sensitive skin that’s easily irritated by stronger exfoliants like glycolic acid or retinol, Lactic Acid is a gentle alternative that still delivers effective results. It’s less likely to cause irritation, making it suitable for people with sensitive or reactive skin.
3. Those Struggling with Dullness or Uneven Skin Tone
If your skin looks dull or you’re dealing with uneven pigmentation or texture, Lactic Acid can help brighten and even out your complexion. Regular use will result in smoother, more radiant skin over time.
4. People Looking to Reduce Signs of Aging
Lactic Acid’s ability to promote collagen production and increase cell turnover makes it an excellent anti-aging ingredient. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while also firming the skin and improving elasticity.
Lactic Acid vs. Glycolic Acid: How Do They Compare?
Both Lactic Acid and Glycolic Acid are alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), but they differ in strength and suitability for different skin types.
- Molecular Size: Lactic Acid molecules are larger than Glycolic Acid molecules, making them less likely to penetrate deep into the skin. This makes Lactic Acid gentler and more suitable for sensitive skin, while Glycolic Acid is better for people looking for deeper exfoliation.
- Hydration: Lactic Acid is more hydrating than Glycolic Acid, making it a better choice for people with dry or dehydrated skin.
- Exfoliation Strength: While both acids exfoliate the skin, Glycolic Acid offers a stronger exfoliating effect, making it ideal for those with more stubborn texture issues or advanced signs of aging. Lactic Acid is gentler and better suited for those with mild concerns or sensitive skin.
Final Thoughts
Lactic Acid is a gentle yet effective exfoliant that can help smooth, brighten, and hydrate the skin. Whether you're dealing with dullness, uneven skin tone, or the first signs of aging, incorporating Lactic Acid into your skincare routine can make a noticeable difference.
With its ability to exfoliate while also hydrating the skin, Lactic Acid is a versatile ingredient suitable for a wide range of skin types, especially for those with dry or sensitive skin.
To get the best results, start with a lower concentration, use it at night, and always follow up with sunscreen during the day. With consistent use, Lactic Acid can help you achieve smoother, more radiant skin in no time.
FAQ’s
1. What does Lactic Acid do for the skin?
This ingredient helps improve skin health by providing hydration, reducing inflammation, and improving overall skin texture.
2. Can Lactic Acid cause purging?
This ingredient is generally well-tolerated and does not cause purging. It is suitable for most skin types.
3. Is Lactic Acid safe to use daily?
Yes, Lactic Acid is safe for daily use, but it is always recommended to follow the product instructions or consult a dermatologist.
4. Can Lactic Acid be used with retinol?
Yes, Lactic Acid can be used in conjunction with retinol to provide hydration and soothe the skin.
5. Is Lactic Acid good for acne?
This ingredient is beneficial for acne-prone skin as it helps to reduce inflammation and control oil production.
6. Does Lactic Acid work on oily skin?
Yes, Lactic Acid works well for oily skin types because it hydrates without adding excess oil.
7. Does Lactic Acid brighten the skin?
This ingredient helps improve skin radiance by reducing pigmentation and evening out skin tone.
8. Can Lactic Acid be used with Vitamin C?
Yes, Lactic Acid pairs well with Vitamin C, enhancing the overall brightening and antioxidant benefits.
9. Is Lactic Acid suitable for sensitive skin?
This ingredient is gentle and generally safe for sensitive skin. However, it's important to patch test.
10. What concentration of Lactic Acid should be used?
The ideal concentration depends on the formulation, but common usage ranges from 1% to 10% depending on the ingredient.
11. How long does it take to see results?
Results from using Lactic Acid typically appear within a few weeks, depending on consistent usage and individual skin types.
12. Can Lactic Acid be used during pregnancy?
Consult with a healthcare provider before using Lactic Acid during pregnancy, as safety can vary.
13. Does Lactic Acid help with wrinkles?
Yes, Lactic Acid can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with consistent use over time.
14. How should Lactic Acid be stored?
Store Lactic Acid in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its efficacy.
15. What skin types can benefit from Lactic Acid?
This ingredient is suitable for all skin types, including dry, oily, and combination skin.
16. Can Lactic Acid be used with AHA/BHA acids?
Yes, but it is recommended to use them in alternate routines or consult a dermatologist.
17. Is Lactic Acid good for anti-aging?
This ingredient has anti-aging properties that improve the skin’s texture and elasticity over time.
18. Can Lactic Acid be layered with moisturizers?
Yes, Lactic Acid can be layered with moisturizers to lock in hydration.
19. Is it safe to use Lactic Acid under the eyes?
Yes, Lactic Acid is generally safe to use under the eyes, but avoid direct contact with the eyes.
20. How should Lactic Acid be applied?
Apply Lactic Acid on clean skin, typically before heavier creams or oils, for maximum absorption.
21. Can Lactic Acid help with hyperpigmentation?
This ingredient can help reduce hyperpigmentation by promoting cell turnover and improving skin tone.
22. How often should Lactic Acid be applied?
It can be applied once or twice daily, depending on skin tolerance and product instructions.
23. Can Lactic Acid be used in the morning and evening?
Yes, Lactic Acid can typically be used both in the morning and evening, though some may prefer evening use.
24. Can Lactic Acid irritate the skin?
This ingredient is generally non-irritating, but sensitive skin types should patch test before using.
25. Can Lactic Acid be combined with sunscreen?
Yes, Lactic Acid works well with sunscreen, and it's important to apply sunscreen daily when using active ingredients.