Many individuals use skin care products that include lactic acid without knowing what it is or how to properly utilize it. This article will teach you how to create your own lactic acid and discuss its use in skin care.
A natural humectant, lactic acid draws in moisture from the air and deposits it into the skin. This is why many who suffer from dry skin choose lotions formulated with lactic acid rather than those with water. Lactic acid has several skin-beneficial functions, including promoting moisture retention, exfoliating dead skin cells, and stimulating collagen formation, which in turn helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Make your own lactic acid: what’s the process? Actually, it’s not that hard! Vinegar (apple cider vinegar works well) and milk of magnesia (magnesium hydroxide) are all that’s needed. After washing your face and neck, make a paste of milk of magnesia and vinegar using equal portions of each. Apply the paste directly to the skin. You might feel a little tingling at first, but that’s totally natural! You should wait around 10 minutes after applying the paste to your skin before washing it off with warm water.
There is a dizzying array of skincare products on the market, and they all claim to be the best. Retinol and lactic acid are two well-known compounds that might be confusing to those who are passionate about skincare. You may improve your skin’s texture and diminish the visible indications of aging using any of these two products. A lot of individuals don’t know how to apply the two substances together or even whether they can. Discover the best skincare regimen for maximum results by reading this post, where we’ll go over the correct way to use retinol and lactic acid, as well as possible combinations of the two.
What Goes First: Retinol or Lactic Acid?
When used properly, the strong skincare chemicals retinol and lactic acid complement each other despite their distinct mechanisms of action. To achieve the best results, though, the sequence of applications is critical. If you want to add retinol and lactic acid to your skincare routine, it’s best to apply them separately on different evenings instead of stacked together. In this way, all of the ingredients may do their jobs well without risking any kind of skin irritation or response.
Can You Use Lactic Acid and Retinol Together?
Because they may irritate the skin, lactic acid and retinol should not be used together. When used in conjunction with one another, these two substances might cause skin to become more sensitive and even more severely exfoliated than when used alone, which is not ideal for skincare. To get the most out of each component, apply them on different days or nights so your skin can absorb them properly.
How Long After Lactic Acid to Apply Retinol?
Do not use retinol for at least 30 minutes after lactic acid has been applied. While you wait, the lactic acid may work its magic on your skin without competing with other skincare products. Giving your skin this time to adjust reduces the likelihood of side effects and maximizes the efficacy of the lactic acid and retinol.
How Do You Use Ordinary Retinol and Lactic Acid?
The following procedures will ensure that regular retinol and lactic acid are used effectively:
- After washing your face, pat it dry.
- Gently rub lactic acid into your skin every other night.
- Give the lactic acid half an hour to do its job.
- Apply retinol to problem areas of your face on evenings when you don’t use lactic acid.
- Moisturizer is the last step in skincare since it locks in moisture and nourishes the skin.
Always remember to ease into retinol and lactic acid treatments by starting with lesser doses and working your way up to stronger and more frequent applications as your skin adjusts. Before using a new product all over your face, make sure it works in a small area first.
What to Apply After Ordinary Retinol?
It is crucial to use a moisturizer after applying regular retinol in order to restore the skin’s moisture and form a protective barrier. Moisturizer usage can help keep skin hydrated and avoid irritation caused by retinol, which can occasionally cause dryness or flakiness. Your skin type and the other skincare products you use should be considered while choosing a moisturizer.
What to Use After Lactic Acid?
It is essential to moisturize and calm the skin after applying lactic acid. Choose a mild, non-irritating moisturizer to restore moisture and soothe any skin irritation or redness that may occur as a result of lactic acid’s exfoliating effects. Because lactic acid can make the skin more photosensitive, it’s also important to wear sunscreen throughout the day.
Does Lactic Acid Lighten Skin?
The skin-lightening effects of lactic acid are well-documented. Yet, as a gentle exfoliator, it has the potential to gradually enhance skin texture and tone. Lactic acid helps bring out a more glowing complexion by exfoliating away dulling dead skin cells and boosting the skin’s natural cell turnover rate. Talk to a dermatologist about your skin type and any issues you may have; they may offer products that will lighten your skin specifically.
Should I Alternate Retinol and Lactic Acid?
To keep from irritating your skin or over-exfoliating, it’s best to alternate between retinol and lactic acid. Because of their distinct action processes, these two substances complement one another well when applied separately, preventing the skin from becoming overloaded. For optimal results, use retinol and lactic acid to your face on opposite evenings of your skincare routine.
What Is the Best Combination with Lactic Acid?
Lactic acid enhances the effectiveness of other skincare treatments when used in conjunction with them. Some common combinations include these:
- Adding lactic acid to hyaluronic acid makes it an even more effective humectant. Its combination with lactic acid has anti-inflammatory and hydrating effects.
- It is well-known that niacinamide and lactic acid can reduce the size of pores and combat acne. The combination with lactic acid may further smooth out rough skin, minimize pores, and even out skin tone.
- Antioxidants, such lactic acid and vitamin C, help keep skin healthy and glowing by neutralizing free radicals. Your skin will seem cleaner and brighter than before after using it in conjunction with lactic acid.
Which Is Stronger: Lactic Acid or Retinol?
Renin and lactic acid are two powerful substances that each have their own advantages. On the other hand, retinol’s anti-aging effects and collagen-stimulating abilities are often believed to be greater. Many people who are looking for anti-aging products choose retinol because of how well it treats wrinkles, fine lines, and other indications of age. In contrast, lactic acid is gentler and works mainly to exfoliate and improve the skin’s texture.
What Other Serums Can I Use with Lactic Acid?
Lactic acid works effectively when paired with certain serums that complement its exfoliating properties. Here are some serums that can be used in combination with lactic acid:
- Hyaluronic Acid Serum:
- Hyaluronic acid is known for its hydrating properties and can work wonders when used with lactic acid. While lactic acid exfoliates and brightens the skin, hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture, keeping the skin hydrated and plump.
- Vitamin C Serum:
- Combining lactic acid with a vitamin C serum can provide a powerful combination for brightening the skin and reducing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that also helps boost collagen production, promoting a more youthful complexion.
- Niacinamide Serum:
- Niacinamide is a versatile skincare ingredient known for its ability to regulate sebum production and improve the skin’s overall texture. When used alongside lactic acid, it can help minimize the occurrence of breakouts and reduce the appearance of pores.
- Peptide Serum:
- Peptides are amino acids that help stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity. When combined with lactic acid, they can enhance the exfoliation process and promote a smoother, firmer complexion.
What Can I Combine with Retinol?
Retinol is another powerhouse ingredient in skincare known for its anti-aging and skin-renewing properties. Similar to lactic acid, it is essential to understand which serums can be combined with retinol to maximize its benefits. Here are some serums that can be used in combination with retinol:
- Hyaluronic Acid Serum:
- Retinol can sometimes cause dryness or irritation, but when combined with hyaluronic acid, it helps mitigate these side effects. Hyaluronic acid provides hydration and plumping effects, counteracting any potential dryness caused by retinol.
- Vitamin E Serum:
- Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that works synergistically with retinol to protect the skin from free radicals and oxidative stress. It also helps enhance the anti-aging effects of retinol, promoting a smoother and more youthful complexion.
- Rosehip Seed Oil:
- Rich in vitamins and essential fatty acids, rosehip seed oil is a nourishing serum that can be used alongside retinol. It helps soothe and hydrate the skin while enhancing the overall effectiveness of retinol.
What Not to Add with Retinol?
While there are several serums that can be combined with retinol, it is crucial to be aware of certain serums that should not be used together. Combining incompatible serums may cause irritation, redness, or diminished efficacy. Here are some serums to avoid using with retinol:
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs):
- AHAs, such as glycolic acid and citric acid, are potent exfoliators that can increase skin sensitivity when used with retinol. Combining these two ingredients can potentially lead to excessive dryness, redness, and irritation.
- Benzoyl Peroxide:
- Benzoyl peroxide is commonly used to treat acne. However, when used alongside retinol, it can cause excessive dryness and irritation. It is advisable to separate the use of these two ingredients or consult with a dermatologist for personalized guidance.
- Vitamin C in Low pH Formulas:
- Vitamin C serums with low pH levels can cause instability and reduce the efficacy of retinol. It is best to use vitamin C and retinol at different times of the day or choose a vitamin C serum with a higher pH.
What to Avoid When Using Retinol?
When incorporating retinol into your skincare routine, it is important to be mindful of certain factors to ensure optimal results. Here are some things to avoid when using retinol:
- Overapplication:
- Using too much retinol can lead to excessive dryness, redness, and irritation. It is best to start with a small amount and gradually increase the dosage as your skin adjusts.
- Skipping Sunscreen:
- Retinol can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Therefore, it is crucial to wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent further damage.
- Using Harsh Cleansers:
- Harsh cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils and exacerbate dryness and irritation caused by retinol. Opt for gentle, non-abrasive cleansers that won’t disrupt the skin’s barrier function.
How Do You Know If Retinol Is Working?
It is natural to wonder whether retinol is working and when you can expect to see results. Here are some signs to look out for to determine if retinol is effectively benefiting your skin:
- Improved Skin Texture:
- Retinol helps promote cell turnover, leading to a smoother and more even skin texture. If you notice a reduction in roughness and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, it indicates that retinol is working.
- Brighter Complexion:
- Retinol helps fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars, resulting in a brighter and more radiant complexion. If you notice an improvement in the overall luminosity of your skin, it is a positive sign that retinol is delivering its benefits.
- Increased Collagen Production:
- Over time, retinol stimulates collagen production, which helps improve skin elasticity and firmness. If you notice a more youthful and plump appearance, it indicates that retinol is effectively boosting collagen levels.
What Happens When You Stop Using Retinol?
Retinol is a long-term skincare investment, and it is natural to wonder what happens when you stop using it. Here’s what you can expect:
- Reversal of Benefits:
- When you stop using retinol, you may notice a gradual reversal of the benefits it provided. Skin texture may become rougher, and the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots may reemerge.
- Reduced Collagen Production:
- Retinol plays a crucial role in stimulating collagen production. When you discontinue its use, collagen levels may decline, leading to a loss of firmness and elasticity in the skin.
- Maintenance Required:
- To maintain the improvements achieved with retinol, it is advisable to incorporate other beneficial ingredients and follow a consistent skincare routine. Consult with a dermatologist to determine the best maintenance plan for your skin.
FAQs:
- Is it possible to mix retinol and lactic acid? If you use lactic acid and retinol together, your skin might get red. Take these every other night to get the most out of them.
- Does lactic acid have the power to lighten skin? It is not clear if lactic acid can really make skin lighter. But it might even out the skin tone and structure, which could make the face look better all around.
- What’s the best thing to put on after getting retinol? If you use retinol on your skin, you should use a cream that locks in wetness to keep it from getting dry and red.
- When should you use lactic acid and when should you use retinol? Remember that retinol will work better if you use it more than 30 minutes after lactic acid. You may also have a worse response.
- Acryl acid or retinol? Which do you think would work better? Your skin won’t get too dry if you use lactic acid and retinol together. Every night, do these two things to make your face look its best.
- How can you mix lactic acid with different things? Putting lactic acid with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or niacinamide might help it work better.
Conclusion
Licorice and retinol are strong skin care ingredients that can improve the way your skin looks and feels. To get the most out of them, you should do them the right way and as part of a full skin care practice. Keep in mind that you should add less at first and then more slowly. First, put some moisturizer on your face and cover it up from the sun. The right way to use retinol and lactic acid can give you skin that looks healthy and glows. You should also know how they might work together.