Lactic acid has been around for quite a while and is a skincare staple for those needing a gentle but effective way to exfoliate their skin. In the crowded world of exfoliants, Lactic acid stands out because it can benefit a wide range of skin types with minimal risks or side effects. In this article we explore the benefits of using lactic acid it work, who it is best for and how to use it in your skincare routine.
What is Lactic Acid?
Lactic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). This is a group of naturally occurring acids commonly found in skincare products. AHAs work by exfoliating the skin’s surface to slough off dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover. Lactic acid has been used for centuries as a skincare ingredient, with roots tracing back to ancient Egyptian and Greek beauty rituals. Cleopatra famously bathed in sour milk, rich in natural lactic acid, to maintain her skin’s softness and radiance.
There’s plenty of scientific evidence to support lactic acid’s effectiveness in improving skin texture and brightness. Moreover, lactic acid also helps hydrate the skin. This dual action makes it ideal for dry or mature skin types. Unlike more famous AHAs such as glycolic acid, lactic acid is less likely to cause irritation which makes it more suitable for sensitive skin types and those with darker complexions who are at greater risk of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This is partly due to its larger molecular size which means it penetrates the skin more slowly and gently.
Benefits of Lactic Acid for Skin
Lactic acid is a versatile skincare ingredient that can help improve the look and feel of your skin when used correctly. The many benefits of lactic acid for skin include:
- Brightening: By removing dead skin cells, lactic acid helps to tackle dullness and brighten the complexion.
- Hydration Boost: Lactic acid is a humectant. This means it draws moisture into the skin which helps to keep it hydrated and plump.
- Reduces Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Increased cell turnover by lactic acid helps to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles. It also promotes the production of new collagen, which gives skin its firm and youthful appearance.
- Fades Pigmentation & Dark Spots: Regular use of lactic acid can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots to even out skin tone.
- Smoothes Skin Texture: One of the earliest benefits of lactic acid is improving texture and making your skin softer. It is great for rough or bumpy skin and scars.
- Boosts Rest of Your Skincare: Regular exfoliation with lactic acid also helps to improve the absorption of other skincare products. This allows them to work more effectively.
Who Should Use Lactic Acid?
Lactic acid can benefit most skin types, but it’s most effective for people with dry, sensitive or mature skin. It’s an excellent option if you want the benefits of exfoliation without the harshness of more potent acids. It, alongside Mandelic acid, are also more suitable for skin of colour although you still need to proceed with caution to reduce the risks of irritation and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, lactic acid can still have some benefit in terms of texture and brightening. However, because it is water soluble, it may not be as effective as salicylic acid for tackling deeper congestion, unclogging pores or oil control.
Is Lactic Acid Safe & Can You Use it During Pregnancy?
Whilst lactic acid is generally considered a gentle exfoliant, it’s not without potential risks and side effects. These are especially if you over use it, opt for high concentrations, layer with other actives or have sensitive skin. The most common side effects of lactic acid skincare include:
- Redness
- Dryness
- Irritation & inflammation
- Makes skin more sensitive to sunlight
- Purging or flareups
- Skin barrier damage
Lactic acid is one of the few skincare ingredients that s generally considered safe during pregnancy if it is used in low concentrations (typically around 5-10%). Unlike retinoids and other exfoliating acids, lactic acid is not known to penetrate deeply into the skin or bloodstream. However, everyone’s skin and pregnancy is different. You should always check with your healthcare provider before using any active ingredients.
Lactic Acid Skincare Products
You can find lactic acid in a variety of skincare products. It comes in just about any formula including cleansers, toners, serums, moisturisers, masks and peels. Each has their benefits and limitations. The main options for lactic acid skincare products are:
- Cleansers: Lactic acid cleansers are ideal for those with sensitive or dry skin who want a gentle, daily exfoliation without leaving the acid on the skin for too long. They work well for maintaining smoothness and you can use them daily with minimal risk of irritation.
- Toners & Serums: These leave-on products provide more exfoliation and are an effective way to smooth and brighten your skin. Although they are still mild enough for regular use, you should avoid using them more than 2-3 times a week.
- Moisturisers: Lactic acid moisturisers combine exfoliation with hydration, making them an excellent choice for dry or dehydrated skin. They deliver gentle, continuous exfoliation while keeping the skin soft and moisturised. Depending on the strength you may be able to use them daily.
- Masks & Peels: These usually contain a higher concentration of lactic acid and hence are usually more intense. You would normally only use these once or twice a month depending on strength. They provide deeper exfoliation and are ideal for those seeking a quick, noticeable boost in brightness and smoothness. They can also help address more stubborn concerns like dark spots, rough texture or advanced signs of ageing. These are best left for more experienced users of lactic and exfoliating acids.
How to Use Lactic Acid in Your Skincare Routine
Although lactic acid is a gentle but powerful exfoliant, you should proceed mindfully as with introducing any other active ingredient. Here are our tips for how to use lactic acid skincare properly:
- Select the Right Product for You: If you are a newbie to actives or have sensitive skin then start with cleansers. If your skin is used to actives then you can consider leave on products.
- Start Slowly: If you’re new to lactic acid, start by using it once or twice a week and gradually increase the frequency as your skin builds tolerance. Over-exfoliating can disrupt the skin barrier, so always listen to your skin.
- Choose the Right Concentration: Lactic acid products vary in strength, usually between 5% and 10% for regular use and up to 30% for professional treatments. If you’re using lactic acid at home, stick to lower concentrations. Lean towards skincare products with less than 10% lactic acid concentration.
- Timing Matters: If you are using retinoids at night then use lactic acid in the mornings otherwise use it in the evenings.
- Sun Protection: Lactic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Always follow up with a good SPF during the day to protect your skin from UV damage.
- Layer Appropriately: To help maintain the skin barrier and reduce irritation, layer lactic acid with other hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides. It’s also best to avoid layering it with other exfoliants, retinoids or high concentrations of vitamin C or niacinamide.
- Patch Test: Always do a patch test before using lactic acid on your face to check for allergies or irritation.
Lactic acid offers a multitude of skin benefits through its dual exfoliation and hydration effects. It can gently help smooth, renew and brighten the complexion. Best of all it works on a variety of different skin types and tones. However, to minimise risks and maximise skin benefits, you need to use lactic acid correctly. As with anything in skincare, consistency and patience are key to getting best results from lactic acid.
At City Skin Clinic, we are passionate about personalised skincare. Through our online skin clinic, our doctors offer safe and effective treatments using ingredients likeTretinoinandHydroquinonewhere appropriate. We treat a range of skin conditions including acne,hyperpigmentation,melasmaandskin ageing. To start your personalised skincare plan, book avirtual video consultationor useour online consultation form.The journey towards great skinstarts here.
