Lactic Acid Skincare Benefits – Why is Lactic Acid Good for Skin? – Digital Clinic for Skin & Hair Care That Works!

Lactic Acid Skincare Benefits – Why is Lactic Acid Good for Skin?

We’ve been discussing facial acids for a while now, and if you’ve read our previous articles, you’ll have a better understanding of what AHAs and BHAs are and their benefits for skin. This guide focuses on lactic acid.

So what exactly is lactic acid, where is it extracted from, and how does it differ from other acids on the market? Let’s explore the benefits of using this acid and why it’s so popular with beauty experts and brands. Since it’s been used for centuries, it’s really no surprise.

We take a closer look at what lactic acid can do for your skin, and how to properly use this radiant AHA!

What is Lactic Acid?

Lactic acid is part of the AHA family and is obtained from natural sources like sour milk and fructose. It also occurs naturally in the body and can cause a buildup after exercise or working out.

It also has a variety of skincare properties that other acids can’t match, such as: Similar to glycolic acid, it has a unique set of benefits that will make your skin smoother, firmer, and more flawless! Unlike other acids, lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that exfoliates and acts as a humectant by drawing water into the outer layer of the skin, making your face look plumper, younger, and with visibly fewer fine lines and wrinkles.

Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele first isolated the compound from yogurt in the late 1800s. German pharmacist Boehringer Ingelheim then figured out how to mass produce lactic acid by fermenting the sugars and starches in yogurt with bacteria. Due to its structure, lactic acid’s larger molecules don’t penetrate deeply into the skin. Instead, it works more as a surface treatment by exfoliating and tightening the skin.

Because lactic acid is considered the gentlest facial acid, it’s a great place to start if you want to introduce AHAs into your skincare routine, especially if you have a sensitive skin type.

Quick Facts

Ingredient Type

Acid/Peeling

Key Benefits of Lactic Acid

Firmer, Thicker Skin

Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Reduces Breakouts, Such as Spots

Who Should Use Lactic Acid?

Generally speaking, anyone can use lactic acid as it is beneficial for all skin types. Always consult your dermatologist if you have any concerns.

How often can you use lactic acid?

Daily use is recommended, but should be used every other day initially.

Lactic acid works well with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid.

Don’t use lactic acid

Do not use with other acids and exfoliants such as AHAs or benzoyl peroxide. Retinol should also be avoided.

What are the benefits of lactic acid for skin?

Just like its AHA brethren, lactic acid has many benefits for skin, including some unique properties:

Lactic acid kills bacteria

Lactic acid can treat and prevent bacterial skin infections. It was first discovered in a study on newborns in 1985 and has since been used on adult skin. It has been shown to achieve the same results by eliminating acne and skin irritation.

Lactic acid reduces fine lines and wrinkles

Concentrations of 5-12% were tested, and both concentrations were able to penetrate the dermis and epidermis of the skin. Skin feels firmer and thicker, with fewer fine lines and wrinkles. Understandably, the strength of the acid limits the layers of skin it can penetrate.

Lactic Acid Reduces Acne

The use of lactic acid has been shown (impressively often) to reduce the development of acne, and can also treat already visible acne. This is also why lactic acid is included in many body care lotions and moisturizers to treat blemishes on other areas such as the chest and back.

Lactic Acid Boosts Cell Turnover

Due to lactic acid’s exfoliating and moisturizing properties, the rate of skin turnover can be increased. This occurs naturally within 30 days, but can be slowed by age and other aggressors. Lactic acid also stimulates collagen production and strengthens the skin, making it firmer, plumper, and more youthful.

Lactic Acid Helps Skin Retain Moisture

This is unique to lactic acid compared to other AHAs available, and has to do with lactic acid being a humectant. Lactic acid locks in moisture, making it perfect for helping the new skin revealed after a chemical peel retain and lock in moisture.

Lactic Acid Evens Out Skin Tone

Lactic acid has significant benefits for the skin, lightening the tone of pigmentation spots like dark spots, acne scars, and melasma. Lactic acid is considered one of the gentlest alpha hydroxy acids, which means it makes a great introduction to facial acids. It is also popular with beauty professionals when they are used in chemical peels. Due to the higher concentrates used in professional treatments, skin irritation may occur. Keep in mind that your skin may also be sensitive to the sun, so always apply adequate SPF.

Lactic Acid Shrinks Pores

The strength of the lactic acid used on the skin depends on how successful it is in helping to shrink pores. AHAs typically only work on the outer layer of the skin, but lactic acid is one of the few acids that consists of larger molecules and can penetrate deeper into the skin depending on the percentage of concentrate.

The aforementioned properties of lactic acid help your skin look and feel its best. Combining these AHAs with other moisturizing, cleansing, and hydrating products will give your skin an overall flawless, radiant look.

How to Use Lactic Acid

Lactic acid is extremely versatile and is found in many skin and body care products:

Face cleansers

Face creams

Face serums

Masks

Hand creams

Shower gels

Body moisturizers

Perhaps you know the story of Cleopatra and her infamous milk baths? Well, the old queen was definitely on the right track when it comes to the skin-pampering benefits of lactic acid. It removes dead skin cells without affecting the pH of the skin barrier.

One thing you need to remember is that while lactic acid is gentler, it is still an acid and can cause irritation if not used correctly. Here are some simple tips about AHAs to help you get the best results when using it in your skincare routine.

It’s best to remember the phrase “three nights in, three nights out.” What I mean by that is use the acid three nights in a row, then take three nights off and use more moisturizer.

Lactic acid can be used by any skin type, but using it too often and in too large a quantity can cause inflammation, which can speed up the aging process.

If your skin is already inflamed or red, it’s best to avoid lactic acid altogether.

To get the most out of it, avoid physical exfoliants and use it after cleansing and before moisturizing to give the lactic acid enough time to restore your face’s glow.

It’s best to take professional advice. If you want to add lactic acid or are using it for the first time, talk to your dermatologist or primary care physician.

Which skin types can use lactic acid?

All skin types benefit from using lactic acid in moderation, but every skin type can run into problems if it’s used too frequently.

Dry Skin – Due to the moisturizing effects of lactic acid, over-the-counter formulas can use this AHA for dry skin without over-drying and irritating the skin. If you’re looking for a stronger product and want a professional peel, be prepared for a thorough consultation to ensure your skin will not be damaged. Peels should be observed with caution, as recovery from peels can take several weeks.

Oily Skin – Similar to the BHA salicylic acid, lactic acid can penetrate deeper into the skin, clearing out all the residue, bacteria, excess sebum, and pollution from the pores for a clearer, flawless complexion.

Normal Skin – Using lactic acid in your daily routine can keep your skin healthy and glowing, as the acid breaks down the glue that holds dead skin cells together, making them easier to peel off.

Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea can also be treated with lactic acid, usually in over-the-counter products with concentrations of 10% or less. Anything beyond this should be used by a professional.

What are the side effects of lactic acid?

Because it’s an acid, there are few side effects to using it. However, that doesn’t mean it can be used without careful consideration. Here are some possible side effects of using lactic acid:

Exposure to too much sun can increase skin sensitivity. Lactic acid is a powerful exfoliant, but it can make the skin more sensitive and more susceptible to damage from the sun’s UV rays. Using the right amount of SPF every day can prevent this.

Lactic acid can cause irritation if used too frequently or before the skin has adjusted. If you follow the above recommendations, use the right amount of acid every day.

It is also recommended to do a patch test before using such a strong acid. This also applies to professional peels, as the recovery time is longer and there is the possibility of irritation to the skin, which can cause discomfort. One thing to remember is that lactic acid is the gentlest of the AHA and BHA family, it still changes the skin and all necessary precautions must be taken when using it.

Now that you have a better understanding of lactic acid and its many benefits for the skin. You will find it easier than ever to incorporate it into your daily skincare routine. Whether it’s uneven skin tone, aging, or acne, this amazing product will help you!

Let’s face it: if it’s good enough for the queen of ancient Egypt, it’s good enough for us!

Have you always wanted to learn more about the AHA and BHA family? Check out our What Are AHAs and BHAs guide now.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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