plant ingredients

What is "LACTIC ACID" and what does it do?

Role: HUMECTANT

Family: AHA

Comedogenic index: 0

Lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), has its origins in milk. However, most of the lactic acid used in cosmetics comes from synthetic sources, for reasons of stability, formulation or vegan principles.

Benefits and functions
Exfoliation and Hydration
Lactic acid exfoliates the skin's surface, removing dead cells.
It has moisturizing properties, reinforcing the cutaneous barrier and contributing to the skin's natural hydration factor.

pH balancing and microbiome
It helps adjust and stabilize skin pH.
It positively influences the skin microbiome, strengthening the skin's first line of defense.

Use in Cosmetics
In a formula with the correct pH (between 3 and 4), lactic acid is effective at concentrations of 5 to 12%.
It improves skin radiance, diminishing uneven, dull complexions.
At concentrations above 10%, it can improve skin firmness and thickness, and reduce wrinkles.

Product selection
It's crucial to choose a product with a known concentration and pH value, as these two factors greatly influence its effectiveness.

Comparison with other AHAs
Lactic acid is the second best-known AHA after glycolic acid.
It is gentler than glycolic acid due to its larger molecular size, which makes it less penetrating but also less irritating.
Beyond its exfoliating role, lactic acid strengthens the skin barrier, encouraging the production of ceramides, essential for healthy skin. It also influences the skin's microbiome and interacts positively with certain neuropeptides, helping to rapidly diffuse signs of cutaneous stress...

Conclusion
Lactic acid is a versatile ingredient offering exfoliating, moisturizing and anti-aging benefits, suitable for a variety of skin care needs. It's essential to choose your product wisely to take full advantage of its benefits.

Even though lactic acid is less powerful than glycolic acid, it's still essential to use it with care. It can cause sun sensitivity and other irritations.

Find out more about "Inci" cosmetic ingredients