Lactic acid – effects on the skin
- It is a gentle exfoliant – it helps remove dead skin cells.
- It helps restore the skin’s natural protective barrier and lock in hydration.
- It has antiseptic properties – it helps prevent bacteria from multiplying on the skin and acne from forming.
- It improves the appearance of enlarged pores.
- It is an antioxidant – it protects the skin against free radicals.
- It helps reduce the first signs of ageing, such as fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
- It balances the natural pH of your skin.
- It evens out skin tone.
Lactic acid – effects on the hair
- It restores the scalp’s natural pH.
- It promotes hair and scalp hydration.
- It gives hair shine and volume.
- Thanks to its exfoliating effects, it helps remove dandruff.
Cosmetic products with lactic acid
Lactic acid is gentle yet highly effective. Since lactic acid occurs naturally in the body, it is tolerated well by all skin types, including sensitive skin. It easily handles dry, hardened and rough skin anywhere on the body. However, its exfoliating properties can make our skin more sensitive to sunlight, which is why we recommend using products with lactic acid at night. The next day, always use high SPF sunscreen.
With its beautifying characteristics, lactic acid has an incredibly broad range of uses. You can try lactic acid cream, lactic acid serum and lactic acid cleansers on your skin. The concentration of lactic acid should not exceed 10% in products for everyday use. Face masks and exfoliants with lactic acid, made for occasional use, will contain a higher concentration.
Lactic acid has large molecules that do not penetrate deeply into the skin. This means it is slower acting than other AHAs, but it is very gentle on the skin. Lactic acid treats skin effectively on its surface and helps restore the protective barrier.
Always be careful when combining lactic acid with other AHAs and BHAs or with mechanical exfoliants. Combining multiple exfoliating ingredients at once could irritate the skin.
Also popular are intimate hygiene products with lactic acid, which support the natural microbial flora, help maintain the correct pH in intimate areas, and provide a long-lasting feeling of freshness.
To restore balance to your hair and scalp, we recommend trying a lactic acid conditioner, emulsion or shampoo.
Discover other cosmetic ingredients that tackle acne and premature skin ageing. For instance, try salicylic acid or glycolic acid.