What is the role of lactobionic acid in skin care? What are its benefits?
When it comes to skincare acids, these powerful ingredients can do it all. Whether it’s fighting signs of aging, hyperpigmentation or brightening a dull complexion, the powerful AHA and BHA families tackle all of these issues at once. However, there are a number of acids that are slowly but surely making their way into our skincare routines: polyhydroxy acids, also known as PHAs. I’ve discussed these acids before in a dedicated blog post, but today I want to focus on one in particular.
If you want to learn more about lactobionic acid and its benefits for your skin, stay tuned.
What is Lactobionic Acid?
Lactobionic acid is the newest skin-transforming ingredient. Also known as LA, it is naturally produced in the body as a result of the oxidation of lactose. As a member of the PHA family, it has gained recognition from dermatologists and beauty experts in recent years for its impressive antioxidant properties. This makes it a highly effective ingredient for skincare, as it can significantly protect the skin from free radical damage caused by things like pollution, UV radiation and other environmental aggressors. When the skin is exposed to these influences without the help of antioxidant-rich compounds, a host of skin issues can occur, from fine lines to congestion and uneven skin to hyperpigmentation.
What does lactobionic acid do for the skin?
Due to its high antioxidant action, lactobionic acid keeps the skin’s natural protective barrier fully functional and fights off all free radicals. But that’s not the only benefit this clever PHA offers to the skin. It’s an acid that removes the buildup of dead skin cells, debris, and other impurities that often cause the skin to look dull. By gently exfoliating, lactobionic acid restores the skin’s balance and significantly improves overall skin tone and radiance. You’ll also find that due to its larger molecular size, LA is unable to penetrate deep into the skin and cause skin irritation.
Skincare Benefits of Lactobionic Acid
Lactobionic acid belongs to the PHA family and is one of the gentlest acids used in skincare
Lactobionic acid is suitable for all skin types, but is particularly suitable for dry and sensitive skin
Lactobionic acid has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from free radical damage
Lactobionic acid can help the skin stay moisturized
Lactobionic acid gently removes the buildup of dead skin cells that can cause dull, lackluster skin
Lactobionic acid improves dark spots and hyperpigmentation, making them less noticeable
Lactobionic acid has anti-aging benefits and reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Lactobionic acid, like any chemical peel, has been used in a variety of skincare products. This will help you incorporate this ingredient into your daily routine in the most convenient way possible and use it in a way that best suits your lifestyle, budget, and daily skincare routine. While lactobionic acid is a very gentle facial acid, it is recommended that you perform a patch test and consult a dermatologist to ensure that it is the right ingredient for you.
What is the difference between lactobionic acid and other skincare acids?
The main difference between lactobionic acid and other skincare acids is that it is a PHA, meaning that its molecular size (as mentioned previously) is very large and it does not penetrate as aggressively as other acids, such as B. glycolic acid or salicylic acid. LA exfoliates the skin, eliminating skin issues and impurities without the side effects (irritation, redness and dryness) common with stronger AHAs and BHAs. Since lactobionic acid works primarily on the outer layer of the skin, its antioxidant, exfoliating and moisturizing properties can help keep the protective barrier functioning and provide the right amount of important oils and water to combat environmental damage and other skin stressors.
Which skin types can benefit from using lactobionic acid?
Many skin types can benefit from incorporating LA into their daily regimen, however, those with sensitive and very dry skin will benefit the most as they will find that with this acid, they can achieve the overall glow that they get when using chemical peels that they were unable to achieve in the past because other acids were too harsh on the face. You now know that lactobionic acid is one of the gentlest acids on the market, making it safe enough for all skin types to use.
If you decide to use a serum rich in lactobionic acid and are sure it is safe to use, you can start your skin care routine by applying a thin layer of the serum to a thoroughly cleansed face. If you use it during the day, don’t forget to protect your skin with SPF 30 or higher, as the exfoliating properties of the acid may make your skin more sensitive to UV radiation.
How often can you use lactobionic acid in your skin care routine?
Generally speaking, it’s best to use the acid once a day in your evening routine, about 2 to 3 times a week, while monitoring your skin for signs of irritation. Once your skin is happy and tolerance has been established, you can increase the frequency of use.
Another factor to consider is the type of products you use that contain LA. For example, a treatment product such as a mask can be used once or twice a week. This is best if you find that you have more problem skin and can combat breakouts with more frequent but gentle exfoliation. For dry skin, a serum used at night can enhance exfoliation and lock in moisture. You’ll catch up on your beauty sleep overtime, leaving your complexion refreshed and hydrated in the morning.
Here are a few key points about lactobionic acid and its skin care benefits. Although this PHA acid isn’t as popular as its more potent cousins, it’s the secret to hydrated, glowing, and happy skin, and we’ll definitely be adding it to our skin care routine!
