What To Dilute The Ordinary Lactic Acid With
A good way to dilute Lactic Acid is to mix it with another serum or moisturizer—one containing hyaluronic acid works well. When you are looking at how to use The Ordinary lactic acid and hyaluronic acid, be sure not to ‘dilute’ Lactic Acid with something that contains retinol or another acid.
Out of all the chemical exfoliating ingredients, we rate Lactic Acid highly in Australia due to its large molecule size and its relative gentleness.
Without a doubt, Lactic Acid is one of our favorite chemical exfoliants to use on all skin types.
This guide focuses on The Ordinary. Specifically, we’re here to explore how to use The Ordinary Lactic Acid in Australia and cover the before and after results.
The Ordinary offers two products of this nature: The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2% and The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%.

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% vs 5%
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2% and 10% + HA 2% are chemical exfoliants with different concentrations. The 5% concentration is suitable for beginners with little experience with chemical exfoliation, while the 10% concentration is suitable for experienced users with skin tolerance to higher concentrations. Lactic Acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid, loosens the sticky ‘glue’ holding dead skin cells to the surface, revealing a brighter, smoother complexion.
For blackheads, beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) are a more suitable choice due to their lipid- (oil-) soluble nature, which helps clear congestion on the skin’s surface and inside pores. To use The Ordinary Lactic Acid, select either the 5% + HA2% or 10% + HA and properly apply it. Patch testing is recommended before using the product.
To use The Ordinary Lactic Acid in Australia, start by applying a thin layer after toner and before moisturizer in your evening skincare routine. If you have not used lactic acid and niacinamide before, incorporate this step three times a week and go from there.
What are The Ordinary Lactic Acid ingredients?
Both The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2% and The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% contain mostly Water, Lactic Acid, Glycerine, and Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer. Tasmania Pepperberry, known to reduce skin irritation, is also featured in both formulas.
While we recommend starting with The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2% rather than the 10% formula, you can also dilute either product to lower its potency.
A good way to dilute Lactic Acid is to mix it with another serum or moisturizer—one containing hyaluronic acid works well.
When you are looking at how to use The Ordinary lactic acid and hyaluronic acid, be sure not to ‘dilute’ Lactic Acid with something that contains retinol or another acid. You’ll end up with irritation, not exfoliation.
How to use lactic acid from The Ordinary in a skincare routine?
It’s the brand that took the beauty world by storm and has since brought us some of our favourite formulas, and we’re about to introduce you to your latest. The Ordinary focuses on bringing no-frills skincare to our regimes at an affordable price, and their Lactic Acid Serums are no exception. A chemical exfoliant, lactic acid helps to brighten and exfoliate the skin while reducing signs of sun damage and pigmentation. Keep reading to find out more about why you need lactic acid in your routine.
How to Use The Ordinary Lactic Acid and Niacinamide Together?
If you’re looking at how to use The Ordinary Lactic Acid and niacinamide together, then we have good news for you: you sure can use the two together to elevate your skincare routine.
Niacinamide has the fantastic ability to address congestion in the skin, making it a top choice for getting rid of little blemishes that appear from time to time.
There’s only one thing to take note of: ‘We do not recommend combining [Lactic Acid] with our 100% Niacinamide Powder, as we do not recommend mixing the powder with formulations with a pH of 5 or lower,’ says Kaka.
Can I use The Ordinary Lactic Acid and Vitamin C together?
Now, if you’re wondering if you can use The Ordinary Lactic Acid and vitamin C together, we have to caution you here.
‘We do not recommend combining direct acids and vitamin C (direct or ethylated) in the same regimen to avoid the potential of developing skin sensitivities,’ warns Kaka.
‘If you wish to incorporate both into your regimen, we suggest [separating] the two products into AM and PM regimens.

Feature | Description |
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Type | Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), a chemical exfoliant. |
Function | Breaks down bonds holding dead skin cells, resulting in gentle exfoliation. |
Comparison | Lactic acid has a larger molecule size than glycolic acid, making it gentler for sensitive skin. |
Strengths | Available in 5% and 10% concentrations. Start with 5% for sensitive skin. |
Benefits |
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Hydration | Blended with hyaluronic acid to retain moisture and reduce irritation. |
Source | Plant origin; traditionally found in milk, also vegan and cruelty-free. |
Usage Instructions |
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Retinol Layering |
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Recommended Routine |
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For Sensitive Skin | Use retinol every other weeknight; incorporate Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum on off nights. |
Targeting Concerns |
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Conclusion
Mixing lactic acid with another serum or moisturizer—one that contains hyaluronic acid is a wonderful method to dilute it. Be careful not to “dilute” conventional lactic acid with retinol or another acid while examining how to utilize it in conjunction with hyaluronic acid.