Why it’s as good for the skin as other more popular skincare ingredients

A lot of you may have heard of lactic acid—some may even have been unknowingly using products containing it—but do you really know what it does to your skin? Find out the benefits of lactic acid and why this ingredient should take the spotlight this time around in your skincare game.

Lactic acid is as good for the skin as other more popular skin care ingredients. A part of the alphahydroxy acid (AHA) group, lactic acid is derived from fermented milk. Its use dates back to Cleopatra’s time when she used to bathe in milk. But wait a minute—just because it is an acid does not mean it is harsh. In fact, lactic acid is gentle and safe for most skin types (even for pregnant women)! As an AHA, it is a great exfoliator that sloughs away dead skin cells to improve dullness, fade age spots and hyperpigmentation, and initiate cell turnover and collagen production to help smoothen fine lines. Overall, it can help brighten, even out, and smoothen the skin. What makes lactic acid extra special is that it also moisturizes the skin as it seals in the moisture too. While its molecules are larger than other AHAs, it cannot penetrate deeper into the skin but can do wonders on your skin’s surface instead. Hello, glow!

A part of the alphahydroxy acid (AHA) group, lactic acid is derived from fermented milk. Its use dates back to Cleopatra’s time when she used to bathe in milk.

So maybe you’re asking—wait, is lactic acid really too good to be true? As with other skin care products you have used before, remember to do a skin test before you use a lactic acid product, even if it’s gentler than other AHAs and especially if you have sensitive skin. Since its job is to exfoliate, it is also not ideal for those with skin issues such as rosacea. Start with a lower percentage and work your way up. Also remember that lactic acid should not mix with other powerful ingredients such as retinol which also encourages cell turnover and collagen production. If combined, they might be too harsh for the skin, and burning, itching, and redness may occur. It is highly suggested to alternate them instead and to not use them every day. And of course, wear sunscreen afterward since lactic acid may cause the skin to be more sensitive to the sun.

From now on, keep yourself on the lookout for products with this ingredient. Lactic acid is definitely here to stay and should be in your regimen too.

Are you ready to raid the beauty aisle?