Description

Lactic Acid – A Gentle Yet Powerful AHA for Bright, Smooth, Hydrated Skin

Lactic Acid is a well-established alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) used in both over-the-counter skincare and professional treatments to exfoliate, brighten, and visibly refine the skin. Naturally found in milk (though cosmetically produced in a stable synthetic form), lactic acid has been used for centuries to soften and beautify the skin, long before modern skincare science validated its effects.

Unlike more aggressive AHAs, lactic acid offers effective exfoliation with added hydration support, making it especially suitable for dull, uneven, or sensitive skin types. It works by gently dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, accelerating cell turnover and revealing a smoother, more radiant complexion beneath. What sets lactic acid apart is its ability to improve exfoliation while supporting the skin’s Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF), helping skin stay hydrated and comfortable rather than tight or stripped.

With consistent use, lactic acid helps fade hyperpigmentation, soften fine lines, refine pore appearance, and improve overall skin tone, making it a cornerstone ingredient in brightening, resurfacing, and rejuvenating formulations.

Technical Information

Ingredient Type: Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
Concentration: 88%
Appearance: Clear, slightly viscous liquid
Solubility: Water-soluble
Recommended Usage: 1–10% (added during cool-down phase)
Optimal Final pH: 3.5 – 4.5

Performance & Benefits

Lactic Acid delivers multi-level skin renewal while maintaining comfort:

• Gently exfoliates to remove dull, dead skin cells

• Accelerates cell turnover for smoother, more even skin

• Brightens the complexion and improves clarity

• Helps fade hyperpigmentation and age spots

• Softens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

• Supports collagen renewal and skin firmness

• Improves skin hydration by reinforcing NMF

• Refines skin texture and minimizes the look of pores

Compared to stronger AHAs like glycolic acid, lactic acid offers effective resurfacing with reduced irritation, making it a preferred choice for sensitive or first-time acid users.

Applications

• Facial exfoliating serums and toners

• Brightening and lightening formulations

• Rejuvenating and anti-aging products

• Gentle exfoliating products

• Smoothing and softening treatments

• pH adjustment in skincare formulations

Pro Tip

Lactic Acid’s performance depends on both concentration and final pH. Always adjust your finished formula to a pH between 3.5 and 4.5 to ensure optimal exfoliation without compromising skin comfort. Start at lower usage levels and increase gradually as skin tolerance builds. Daily sunscreen use is essential when formulating or using AHA-based products.

Disclaimer:
For cosmetic formulation use only,  not for internal or medical applications.

At Skin Foodie, we believe that what goes into your formulations should be as pure as what goes into your body. That’s why we source only ingredients that meet exceptional standards of purity, performance, and safety. Remember: not all ingredients are created equal, the same name or CAS number does not guarantee the same quality.