Can I use Lactic Acid and AHA Together?
Lactic acid has been known since the compound was isolated by chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele and pharmacist Boehringer Ingelheim in the 19th century. One is made from sour milk and the other is a by-product of bacteria fermenting
sugar and milk starch. Lactic acid is gentler on the skin in many ways than its more powerful relatives, such as
Combats the signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles while stimulating collagen production to leave skin feeling firmer, plumper and younger.
Helps lock in moisture. Thanks to lactic acid’s moisturizing properties, it draws moisture into the skin and locks it in place, keeping the surface barrier healthy and strengthened.
Exfoliates the skin’s surface to remove dead skin cells, dirt, debris and other impurities.
Fights blemishes that can increase the frequency of acne and breakouts, while unclogging excess sebum and bacteria from pores.
Due to the larger molecular size, it remains gentle on the skin and prevents it from penetrating too deep into the underlying layers.
Suitable for all skin types, including those prone to sensitivity and redness.
For more on lactic acid, see this blog post from Beauty Insider. So, whenever possible, check it out and dig in.
What should lactic acid not be mixed with?
Lactic acid can be used in conjunction with several other powerful substances while avoiding unwanted side effects. For best results, they are best used together.
To reap the benefits of all skincare ingredients, there are a variety of ways to use these two ingredients effectively, such as:
Option 1: Alternate the time of day to use each ingredient. If you decide to use ingredients like glycolic acid and lactic acid, try using the latter in the morning and leave the former on until evening. This allows enough time
between applications for the skin’s pH to rebalance and stabilize.
Option 2: Once your skin has developed a tolerance, you can allow about 10 to 15 minutes between applications. This ensures that the product formula is fully absorbed into the skin and is ready for the next step in your daily
care.
These methods are considered the most effective and easiest ways to combine lactic acid with other ingredients such as glycolic acid, vitamin C, and salicylic acid. However, if these ingredients are new to you and your skin, I
recommend doing a patch test on the inside of your forearm. If there are no signs of irritation, this is a clear indication that you can apply the product to your face.
Can lactic acid be used after an AHA-BHA peel?
No, lactic acid is not recommended after an AHA or BHA peel. This is mainly because chemical peels are a professional treatment that contain significantly higher amounts than those found in over-the-counter formulations. It is
important to give the skin the rest it needs after treatment. Avoid lactic acid or other exfoliants and strong ingredients like vitamin C or retinol. Opt for hyaluronic acid, which soothes the skin and locks in moisture.
Is it okay to use lactic acid every day?
Yes, it’s okay to use lactic acid on a daily basis, but be prepared for skin irritation if you overdo it. Although it is considered one of the gentlest chemical peels, it is still a peel that works on the surface of the skin and
increases the rate of skin cell renewal. If ingredients that increase skin cell turnover are overused, the skin can become irritated, red, itchy and uncomfortable.
To get the most out of lactic acid, I recommend using it once a day, along with an exfoliating toner or face wash, as they contain a lower percentage of active ingredients. Once your skin develops a tolerance, you can switch to
a serum or other product that leaves a higher percentage on the skin.
Does Lactic Acid Cause Acne?
Yes, lactic acid can cause breakouts, especially if you’re not familiar with these or other exfoliating ingredients. This is because exfoliating skin ingredients can lead to detoxification, i.e. blemishes and breakouts.
Detoxing does not cause long-term problems and usually goes away on its own within a few days or two. If your acne and blackheads persist longer than expected, consult your doctor or dermatologist as you may need to find another
ingredient that better suits your skin needs.
If you want to learn more about chemical peels and the acne they cause, you can check out our dedicated blog post on lactic acid and skin cleansing.
How to add lactic acid to your skin care routine?
Lactic acid is found in a range of skin care formulations, from toners to serums. How to incorporate lactic acid into your daily diet depends on the product’s formulation. It’s important to remember how to apply skin care
products most effectively, starting with the thinnest consistency and working your way up to the thickest. This allows active ingredients to be absorbed by the skin without having to compete with the physical barrier made up of
thick layers of serum or moisturizer.
You can find more information on using lactic acid and AHAs together there. Don’t hesitate to find one of our skin experts on Procoal’s Instagram. They will be happy to help you!
