Here’s Everything That Lactic Acid Can Do For Your Skin

Lactic acid is a versatile skincare ingredient with various benefits for the skin. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what lactic acid can do for your skin:

1. Exfoliation: Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) known for its gentle exfoliating properties. It works by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting their shedding from the skin’s surface. Regular exfoliation with lactic acid helps to reveal smoother, brighter skin and can improve the appearance of uneven skin tone and texture.
2. Hydration: Unlike some other exfoliating acids, lactic acid also has humectant properties, meaning it helps attract moisture to the skin. This makes it particularly beneficial for dry or dehydrated skin types, as it can help hydrate and soften the skin while exfoliating.
3. Stimulating Collagen Production: Lactic acid stimulates collagen synthesis in the skin. Collagen is a protein that provides structural support to the skin, helping to keep it firm and supple. By promoting collagen production, lactic acid can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leading to smoother, more youthful-looking skin over time.
4. Improving Hyperpigmentation: Lactic acid can help improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation, including age spots, sun spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Its exfoliating action helps to slough off pigmented skin cells, while its brightening effects can help fade dark spots and even out skin tone.
5. Reducing Acne and Breakouts: Lactic acid possesses antibacterial properties that can help reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface. Additionally, its exfoliating action helps to unclog pores, prevent the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), and reduce the frequency of breakouts.
6. Enhancing Product Absorption: By removing dead skin cells and excess sebum from the skin’s surface, lactic acid can improve the penetration and efficacy of other skincare products applied afterward. This means that serums, moisturizers, and treatments applied after using lactic acid can be better absorbed and more effective.
7. Suitable for Sensitive Skin: Lactic acid is generally considered to be milder and less irritating than other AHAs, such as glycolic acid. Its larger molecular size and hydrating properties make it suitable for sensitive or dry skin types who may not tolerate stronger exfoliants.
8. Maintaining pH Balance: Lactic acid helps to regulate the skin’s pH levels, which is important for maintaining a healthy skin barrier. By supporting the skin’s natural pH balance, lactic acid can help strengthen the skin barrier, improve moisture retention, and protect against environmental stressors.

The Best Skincare Product With Lactic Acid