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Lactic Acid

INCI: Lactic Acid
Also known as: AHA, 2-Hydroxypropanoic Acid
ExfoliantsexfoliantbiotechStrong evidencePregnancy safe
83
Skinlumis Rating
Comedogenic
0/5
Irritancy
2/5
Best applied
PM
Effective range
5%–10%
How It Works

A gentler AHA than glycolic, with the added bonus of being a humectant (it's part of skin's natural moisturising factor).

Exfoliates by weakening corneocyte adhesion while simultaneously binding water into the stratum corneum and stimulating ceramide synthesis.

pH Range
3.0–4.0
Benefits
  • Gentle exfoliation
  • Hydrates
  • Brightens
  • Boosts ceramide synthesis
  • Dual exfoliant + humectant
Proven For

What the evidence supports.

DullnessMild hyperpigmentationDry texture
Best For
  • Dry
  • Sensitive
  • Normal
Avoid If
  • Severely compromised barrier
Layering Order
3/10

Apply early in routine, toner/essence step.

Max Safe Concentration
10% leave-on / 88% peel

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 5%–10%

Seasonal Use

Year-round; preferred AHA for winter dryness.

Nutrition Connection

Found in fermented dairy, yogurt, kefir, sourdough.

Skin Signals When You Need It
  • Tight, flaky dry skin
For Estheticians & Professionals

The dehydrated/mature 'gentle resurfacing' choice. Start at 5% nightly, escalate.

Notable Research
  • Smith 1996, 12% lactic acid improved photodamage and dermal collagen
Clinical Evidence

The research behind Lactic Acid.

4 peer-reviewed studies

Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.

Systematic Review
Oral collagen peptides at 2.5-10g daily significantly improved skin elasticity and reduced wrinkle depth after 8-12 weeks across 11 RCTs.
Choi FD, Sung CT, Juhasz MLW, Mesinkovska NA
Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2019
View Study →
Systematic Review
Estrogen deficiency following menopause causes 30% reduction in skin collagen within the first 5 years.
Wilkinson HN, Hardman MJ
Maturitas, 2017
View Study →
Systematic Review
Chronic psychological stress elevates cortisol, accelerating skin aging through collagen degradation and barrier disruption.
Chen Y, Lyga J
Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
View Study →
Randomized Controlled Trial
Nano-hyaluronic acid significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity after 8 weeks.
Jegasothy SM, Zabolotniaia V, Bielfeldt S
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2014
View Study →
Pairs Well With
Hyaluronic AcidNiacinamideCeramide NP
Conflicts With
RetinolOther AHAs (over-exfoliation)
Your Skin Compatibility

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