Skincare Ingredient
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Lactic Acid
In Skincare: Is Lactic Acid Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
Lactic acid gently exfoliates the skin's surface to reveal a smoother complexion.
- 02
As an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), lactic acid possesses hydrating properties that can help improve skin moisture.
- 03
Lactic acid, an AHA found in sour milk and sugarcane, may help strengthen the skin's natural barrier.
- 04
Lactic acid can positively influence the skin’s microbiome, which is a community of microorganisms living on the skin.
Key Benefits
What Lactic Acid does for your skin
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Data & Research
Scientific Facts
Common Uses
Formulation in Lactic Acid
Role of Lactic Acid
Active Cosmetic Mechanisms
BUFFERING
pH StabilizerMaintains stable pH levels in products
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Buffering systems resist pH changes through weak acid-conjugate base pairs (citric acid/sodium citrate, lactic acid/sodium lactate, phosphate salts) that operate within specific pH ranges based on their pKa values. The mechanism follows the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation, with buffer components neutralizing added H⁺ or OH⁻ ions. Proper buffering prevents pH drift and maintains efficacy.
HUMECTANT
Moisture MagnetAttracts and retains moisture in skin and hair
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Humectant ingredients draw water from the environment and deeper skin layers through hygroscopic properties. Common humectants include glycerin, propylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, urea, and alpha-hydroxy acids. These contain multiple hydroxyl groups or other hydrophilic functional groups that form hydrogen bonds with water molecules. Mechanism involves attracting water to the stratum corneum, reducing transepidermal water loss, and increasing skin hydration.
SKIN CONDITIONING
Skin EnhancerMaintains skin in good condition and improves its feel
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Skin conditioning ingredients enhance appearance, texture, and health of skin through various mechanisms. This broad category encompasses emollients, humectants, occlusives, and other agents that improve skin feel, appearance, and function. May work by moisturizing, smoothing, softening, or protecting skin. Effects include improved tactile properties, enhanced barrier function, and better overall skin condition.
Products
containing Lactic Acid
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References
Scientific sources
International Journal of Cosmetic Science, April 2020, pages 116-126
International Journal of Dermatology, March 2019, ePublication
Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, October 2018, pages 491-497
International Journal of Dermatology, September 2018, ePublication
Molecules, April 2018, ePublication
Journal of the American Dental Association, April 2016, pages 255-263
Cutis, January 2016, pages E9-E11
Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, November 2010, pages 135-142
The Journal of Dermatology, January 2006, pages 16-22
Similar Ingredients
Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lactic Acid — common questions
What is Lactic Acid in skincare?
Lactic acid is a naturally occurring organic alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). Salts and esters of lactic acid, including Ammonium Lactate, Calcium Lactate, Potassium Lactate, Sodium Lactate, and TEA-Lactate, are also frequently used in cosmetics. These ingredients can be derived from both natural sources (primarily milk) and are also produced synthetically. They are commonly found in a variety of products such as moisturizers, cleansers, makeup, shampoos, hair dyes and colorants, and other personal car
What does Lactic Acid do? / Functions of Lactic Acid?
Common functions: BUFFERING, HUMECTANT, SKIN CONDITIONING.
What is the comedogenic rating of Lactic Acid? / Is Lactic Acid comedogenic?
Lactic Acid has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is unlikely to clog pores.
Does it clog pores?
Lactic Acid is unlikely to clog pores (rating 1/5).
Is Lactic Acid safe for skin?
Lactic Acid has a safety rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types.
Is Lactic Acid good for sensitive skin?
Lactic Acid has an irritancy rating of 3 out of 5. A rating of 3 means it may cause mild irritation for some.
What are the side effects of Lactic Acid in skincare?
Potential side effects include skin irritation (irritancy rating 3/5).