What To Use Lactic Acid For

In skincare products, lactic acid, a naturally occurring alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), is used to combat wrinkles, acne, and aging. Moisturizers, cleansers, toners, and masks frequently contain it. Because it is a gentle exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells without irritating your skin, lactic acid is one of the safest AHAs available. It can also help lessen the redness and swelling surrounding acne lesions because it has anti-inflammatory qualities.

By removing dead skin cells from the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of your skin, lactic acid is also a powerful keratolytic agent that doesn’t harm the healthy skin tissue beneath. It increases the formation of collagen and helps remove oil and debris, allowing you to gradually eliminate wrinkles and fine lines!

The specific uses of lactic acid include the treatment of age spots, hyperpigmentation, and other conditions that lead to an uneven and lifeless complexion. Additional advantages of AHAs, such as lactic acid, include better skin tone and less noticeable pores. However, lactic acid is a little milder than AHAs like glycolic acid. Continue reading to learn more about lactic acid cream and lactic acid for sensitive skin.

Many over-the-counter (OTC) cosmetic products contain the component lactic acid. In medical offices, it is also accessible in higher amounts. As a chemical exfoliator and antioxidant, lactic acid also aids in skin hydration.

Lactic acid is typically found in moderate products for home use, with concentrations of 10% or less. Products with over 10–15% must be applied professionally.

This page explains the definition of lactic acid, its effects on the skin, and its use. The possible dangers and adverse effects are also examined.

What is lactic acid?

Lactic acid is one of the most common types of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) used in cosmetic products. AHAs are present in OTC chemical exfoliants and professional chemical peels.

The Vegetarian Resource Group (VRG) notes that most lactic acid is produced by a fermentation process using cornstarch or beet sugar, meaning that some products containing lactic acid may be suitable for vegans.

Fermenting milk products can also produce lactic acid.

Other types of AHAs include:

• glycolic acid, which comes from sugar cane
• citric acid, which derives from citrus fruits
• malic acid, which comes from apples
• tartaric acid, which derives from grapes

How it affects the skin

Chemical peels that contain AHAs, such as lactic acid, remove the top layer of dead skin cells. Typically, superficial chemical peels contain a lactic acid concentration of 10–30%.

Although they are called peels, the skin does not noticeably peel off. Instead, the dead skin cells come away from the top layer of the skin when people cleanse their face in the morning after using chemical peels.

Benefits of using lactic acid on the skin 

According to the Food & Drug Administration (FDA), some of the potential benefits of using lactic acid on the skin include:

• improving skin texture and tone
• improving skin appearance or firmness
• reducing dark spots
• smoothing fine lines and surface wrinkles
• unblocking and cleansing pores

How to use skin care products containing lactic acid safely

Lactic acid is a versatile ingredient present in various skin care products. These include:

• body scrubs
• cleansers
• essences
• exfoliators
• facial treatments
• serums
• toners

Depending on the specific product and its place in a person’s skincare regime, the instructions for use will differ. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the best outcome.

Lactic acid, alongside other AHAs, increases the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. As a result, people should always wear sunscreen if they incorporate an AHA into their skin care routine.

Performing a patch test

The higher the concentration of lactic acid, the more likely it is that the product will irritate a person’s skin. People should always conduct a patch test and begin with a lower concentration before moving to stronger products.

The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) suggests that a person test the skin care products by:

1. Applying the product to a test spot, such as the bend of the elbow or the underside of the arm. People should do this twice a day for 7–10 days, using the same amount and thickness they would be using if they were applying the product normally.
2. Leaving the product on for as long as the packet instructions suggest.
3. Use the product if no irritation or inflammation occurs.

The AAD notes that some ingredients, such as glycolic acid, will normally cause temporary irritation, particularly if a person has sensitive skin. As with lactic acid, glycolic acid is an AHA.

What to check for in products

The FDA requires an ingredient declaration on all cosmetic products sold to end users.

Milder peels that a person can use at home will contain lactic acid concentrations of 10% or less.

People should check that lactic acid is one of the first ingredients on the list. The product may not contain enough lactic acid to benefit the skin if it appears toward the end.

Professional lactic acid peels 

Some people may want to consider visiting a professional for a chemical peel. Typically this will be for a stronger formulation or more visible and immediate results.

There are three levels of dermatologist-provided chemical peels:

• Refreshing or lunchtime peels: These take 1–7 days to heal. People may require 3–5 visits, and a person can repeat this treatment every 2–5 weeks.
• Medium peels: These take 7–14 days to heal. A person will also require a follow-up appointment.
• Deep peels: These can take 14–21 days to heal. A person will need to return to the dermatologist the next day and have several follow-up visits.

People can only ever have one deep peel but repeat medium and mild peels when necessary. A person should speak with their dermatologist to determine the best treatment plan for them.

According to a 2018 articleTrusted Source, medium chemical peels usually consist of 35–50% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and 70% glycolic acid.

The dermatologist may pretreat the skin using Jessner’s solution. Jessner’s solution contains:

• resorcinol
• salicylic acid
• lactic acid
• ethanol lactic acid

Deeper peels often use phenol peels that consist of croton oil, phenol, and water for dilution.

Side effects 

The FDAT states that products containing lactic acid are safe to use, providing the product:

• has a concentration of 10% or less
• has a pH of 3.5 or more
• is either formulated so that it protects the skin from sun sensitivity or instructs the users to use daily sun protection

It is particularly important that people wear sunscreen when using lactic acid on their skin. This is because the acids can cause the skin to be more susceptible to sun damage.

Depending on the lactic acid concentration, the pH of the product, and how long a person has exposure to the product, people may experience:

• inflammation
• swelling
• burning
• itching

If people experience side effects, they should contact a doctor or dermatologist.

People should also avoid using lactic acid on the same days that they incorporate retinol into their skincare routine. People should instead alternate between the two products.

After using lactic acid peels, a person may experience:

• inflammation
• mild swelling
• mild discomfort
• peeling or flaking skin

After a medium or deep peel, people can expect:

• skin inflammation
• swelling
• blisters
• skin crusting

A dermatologist will provide details on caring for the skin following these procedures.

Frequently asked questions

The following are answers to some common questions about lactic acid.

Is lactic acid safe to use in pregnancy?

AHA treatments are safe to use during pregnancy. However, a person should speak with a dermatologist before undergoing treatments if they are pregnant.

Is lactic acid safe to use alongside other anti-aging products?

People can alternate using products containing lactic acid with other anti-aging products, such as vitamin C and retinoid creams.

How long does lactic acid take to work?

The length of time it takes lactic acid to work depends on the product and the intensity of the chemical peel.

DermNet NZ states that AHA peels can take a few months to work.

The AAD states that after a professional chemical peel, a person will notice results once the skin has healed. This can take between 1 day or 14 days, depending on the intensity of the chemical peel.

If a person has undergone a refreshing peel, they may require 3–5 sessions.

Lactic Acid Cream

Using lactic acid for skin has a few benefits. Lactic acid is alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that removes dead skin cells, lightens dark spots, and improves the look of fine lines and wrinkles on all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Lactic acid is used in many over-the-counter (OTC) skincare products and professional treatments. It’s also found in many products that are put on the skin (topical), as well as treatments for eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.

This article will review how lactic acid works, how to use it, and what side effects to know about. It will also help you to decide which lactic product is right for you.

What Is Lactic Acid?

Lactic acid is one of the most popular alpha hydroxy acids available. It is a common ingredient in OTC skin care products. It is also used in stronger professional peels and treatments.

Lactic acid is naturally found in dairy products. It’s what gives yogurt and soured milk their distinctive tangy taste. Dairy products have been used for centuries by people across the world to soften and beautify the skin.

People still take milk baths, but most lactic acid used in skin care products and peels today is made in a lab (synthetic).

Skin Benefits

Lactic acid helps remove old, dull cells on the skin’s surface by dissolving the bonds that hold them together (exfoliation).

Lactic acid also makes cell turnover happen faster and stimulates the processes by which your skin sheds old cells and replaces them with new ones (cell renewal).¹

As a result, lactic acid gives you a brighter complexion as well as smoother and softer skin.

Lactic acid is popular for two main reasons:

• It can create real change in the skin if used regularly.
• It’s one of the gentler hydroxy acids used in skin care.

There are also some other possible benefits of lactic acid for your skin, including:

• Thickens and tightens your skin
• Helps clear pores
• Brightens and smooths your complexion
• An effective antimicrobial 
• Balances the microbiome of the skin for people with sensitive skin and acne

All alpha hydroxy acids exfoliate and improve skin texture, but lactic acid has an extra benefit that you won’t get from other AHAs, like glycolic acid and mandelic acid.

Lactic acid helps improve your skin’s built-in process for keeping itself hydrated (natural moisture factor).  Basically, lactic acid helps to keep your skin moisturized and feeling less dry.

Lactic acid also helps firm up and tighten skin by exfoliating dead skin cells, encouraging new cell turnover, and stimulating a fiber that helps keep skin firm (collagen) as well as a protein that keeps skin tight (elastin).³⁴

Fading sun spots or age spots and smoothing or softening fine lines and wrinkles is another benefit of lactic acid. However, it will not improve deeper lines.

Lactic acid is a main ingredient in OTC lotions and creams for those “chicken skin” bumps on the backs of the arms (keratosis pilaris). Lactic acid helps dissolve the plug of skin cells that builds up around the hair follicle and smooths out the bumpiness.⁵

Possible Side Effects

Even though lactic acid is gentler for the skin than other AHAs, it is still a strong treatment. Here are a few possible side effects of using lactic acid on your skin.

Sun Sensitivity

The most important thing you need to know before you start using lactic acid is that it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. As the acid sloughs away skin cells, it leaves your skin more likely to be damaged by ultraviolet light from the sun.

Some studies have suggested that sun sensitivity can last for four weeks after you’ve stopped using a lactic acid product or peel treatment—maybe even longer.

Use SPF 30 or higher sunscreen daily to protect your skin from sunburn and sun damage, even on cloudy days. If you don’t protect your skin, you could undo the benefits of lactic acid, like its ability to fade spots and soften wrinkles.

Skin Irritation

Lactic acid can also cause skin irritation. Be on the lookout for the following:

• Redness
• Burning
• Peeling
• Dryness
• Itchy skin
• Swelling

You may have mild redness, burning, and itching when you first start using a lactic acid product. As long as it is not bad and goes away within an hour or so, it’s nothing to worry about.

However, if the redness, burning, and itching are moderate to severe or do not go away, or if you have swelling or a rash, wash the product off immediately and do not use it again. Call your healthcare provider for advice on what to do for your skin.

Contraindications

Lactic acid is the gentlest of alpha hydroxy acids. Most people can use it safely. Still, some people should not use products with lactic acid.

If you have very sensitive skin, lactic acid can irritate your skin. Start with using a product that only has a small percentage of lactic acid (e.g., 5%) and see how your skin reacts to it. If you notice any irritation, stop using the product.

If you use topical retinoids like Retin-A or Refissa, you won’t want to add lactic acid to your skincare routine. These products are already exfoliating your skin, so if you also use a product with lactic acid, your skin could get too sensitive.

Some people can use lactic acid products every day, while others have more sensitive skin and need to use the products less often. Check with your provider about how often you should use lactic acid.

If you are using any prescription skin care medication, check with your provider before trying any lactic acid treatment. You may not be able to use these products together.

How can a lactic acid peel benefit your skin?

A chemical peel works by using a chemical — in this case, lactic acid — on bare skin. It removes the top layer of skin (epidermis). Some stronger formulas may also target the middle layers of skin (dermis).

Despite the name, your skin doesn’t noticeably “peel” off. What is noticeable, though, are the effects underneath the removed epidermis: smoother and brighter skin.

Lactic acid is specifically used to treat hyperpigmentation, age spots, and other factors that contribute to a dull and uneven complexion. Other benefits of AHAs like lactic acid include improved skin tone and reduced pore appearance.

However, unlike AHAs such as glycolic acid, lactic acid is a bit milder. This makes a lactic acid peel a better choice for sensitive skin. Lactic acid may also be an option if you’ve tried another AHA in the past and found the product too strong.

Are side effects possible?

Despite the milder nature of lactic acid, it’s still considered a powerful AHA.

Its “peeling” effects will make your skin more vulnerable to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, so sunscreen is key. Make sure you apply sunscreen every morning and reapply as needed throughout the day.

Over time, unprotected sun exposure can lead to more age spots and scarring. It may even increase your risk for skin cancer.

Lactic acid peels can also cause irritation, rash, and itchiness. These effects are usually mild and improve as your skin gets used to the product. If your side effects persist after the first few applications, discontinue use and see your doctor.

You shouldn’t use a lactic acid peel if you have:

• eczema
• psoriasis
• rosacea

If you have naturally darker skin, talk to your doctor or dermatologist before use. Chemical peels may increase your risk of hyperpigmentation.

How to use a lactic acid peel

Instructions for use vary based on a product’s makeup and concentration. Always read the product label and follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Purchase

For a lighter peel, look for a product with a 5 percent acid content. Medium peels can range from 10 to 15 percent lactic acid, and deeper (professional) peels have even higher concentrations.

Generally, the stronger the results, the higher the concentration. You may not have to use stronger peels as often, but any subsequent irritation may last longer.

Preparation and use

It’s important to do a skin patch test before your first full application. This can help reduce your risk of side effects.

To do this:

• Apply a dime-sized amount of product to the inside of your forearm.
• Cover the area with a bandage and leave it alone.
• If you don’t experience any irritation or inflammation within 24 hours, the product should be safe to apply elsewhere.
• If you do experience side effects, discontinue use. See your dermatologist if your side effects worsen or last more than a day or two.

Lactic acid peels are designed for evening application. Like other AHAs, lactic acid increases sun sensitivity, so you should never use them in the morning.

Protection

You should wear sunscreen every day when using lactic acid. For best results, apply sunscreen every morning and reapply as needed throughout the day. You can use a sunscreen-containing daytime moisturizer as well as a foundation with an SPF.

Lactic acid products to try at home

Lactic acid peels are widely available in drugstores, beauty supply stores, and online retailers.

Popular options include:

• Dermalogica Gentle Cream Exfoliant. Suited for more sensitive skin, this cream-based lactic acid exfoliant also contains salicylic acid. These two ingredients remove dead skin cells that can lead to a pigmented, dull complexion.
• Juice Beauty Green Apple Peel Full Strength. This all-encompassing peel targets wrinkles and hyperpigmentation with the help of lactic acid and other AHAs. It also contains willow bark, a natural type of salicylic acid, and vitamins A and C. This peel is not recommended for sensitive skin.
• Patchology Exfoliate FlashMasque Facial Sheets. These lactic acid-based disposable face sheets work by sloughing off dead skin to improve overall appearance and texture. As a bonus, the facial sheets are easy to use, with no extra steps or rinsing required.
• Perfect Image Lactic Acid 50% Gel Peel. If you’re looking for a deeper lactic acid peel, this product might be a home-based option for you. It contains 50 percent lactic acid to improve your complexion, and the gel is easy to manage without the product running off your face. It’s a professional-grade peel, so consult your dermatologist before use.
• QRx Labs Lactic Acid 50% Gel Peel. Considered a professional-grade product, this gel-based peel also contains a higher concentration of lactic acid at 50 percent. Although the company promises professional results, it’s a good idea to run this by your dermatologist first to prevent side effects.

Consider getting a professional lactic acid peel

Despite the availability of at-home lactic acid peels, the Mayo Clinic says that deeper chemical peels offer the best results. The effects also last longer than OTC peels, so you don’t have to use them as often.

You might consider getting a lactic acid peel from your dermatologist or skin care specialist if you aren’t seeing results from OTC versions but don’t want to use a stronger AHA.

Before getting a professional lactic acid peel, talk to your dermatologist about all the medications you take as well as your level of sensitivity. These can all factor into the strength of the peel your dermatologist or skin care specialist chooses. This can help prevent side effects and complications, such as irritation and scarring.

Also know that it can take up to two weeks to recover from a professional lactic acid peel. Mild peels may cause side effects that last a day or so, but after a deeper peel, your skin may need to be bandaged for a couple of weeks.

Lactic acid peels can vary in cost, and they aren’t covered by insurance. That’s because they’re considered cosmetic treatments and not medically necessary therapies. However, you may be able to work out a payment plan with your dermatologist’s billing department.

Lactic acid is used to create a mild chemical peel that can help even out your skin tone. It can help address age spots, melasma, and rough texture, along with fine lines.

Although OTC options are available, it’s important to discuss your skin care needs with a dermatologist before trying a lactic acid peel at home. Certain skin conditions may increase your risk of side effects.

If you do try an OTC peel, make sure you do a skin patch test before your first full application. You should also apply sunscreen every morning and reapply as needed throughout the day.

Lactic Acid For Sensitive Skin

Lactic acid is helpful for smoothing and softening rough or scaly skin. Products containing this exfoliating ingredient can be suitable for dry and sensitive skin because it is one of the gentlest alpha-hydroxy acids, and it offers hydrating benefits as well.

Lactic acid is an over-the-counter chemical exfoliant that comes from the fermentation of lactose — a carbohydrate found in milk. It’s a popular ingredient in numerous skin care products nowadays. But its use is nothing new. It dates back to ancient Egypt. It’s common knowledge that Cleopatra used to bathe in sour milk to keep her skin looking more youthful. ‌

‌Like glycolic and mandelic acids, lactic acid belongs to the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family. AHAs are water-soluble organic compounds that, in cosmetic formulations, offer unparalleled benefits for the skin. Lactic acid presents an additional advantage that other AHAs don’t have. Besides its ability to significantly improve the skin’s appearance, it helps keep it naturally hydrated.

How to Use Lactic Acid Safely

Even though it’s a milder AHA exfoliant, you shouldn’t use lactic acid too frequently. You risk over-exfoliating your skin and messing with its natural barrier. Consider using this effective skin resurfacing ingredient every other night unless your doctor says otherwise.

‌Be careful if you’re using retinoids and aggressive scrubs. Avoid doing these treatments all at once, or you might see some irritation. In severe cases, you might cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which happens when the skin produces extra melanin as a natural response to stress. This type of hyperpigmentation can take a long time to fade out.

‌Using any chemical peel puts your skin at a greater risk of sun damage. Always wear an SPF 30+ whether you’re outdoors or not. Reapply it every two hours when you’re exposed to direct sunlight. Failing to protect your extra-vulnerable skin from UVA and UVB damage might increase your chances of getting skin cancer.

After receiving an intensive treatment, it is important to take good care of your skin. This is why it is essential to have a good aftercare plan following your chemical peel.

Your treatment provider will discuss how to take good care of your skin post-peel. This will help your skin to peel more evenly and to heal quickly. Our highly qualified and experienced doctors at Evolution MedSpa Boston can provide a wealth of information about chemical peels. Here they share some of their knowledge with you.

How do you take care of your skin after a chemical peel?

How exactly should you treat your healing skin after your treatment?

A chemical peel will remove the top layers of your skin, including the dead and unhealthy skin cells. This can help to improve the appearance of acne, discolouration and aging skin. Peels provide the opportunity for your healthy, glowing skin underneath to shine through. Allowing your skin to recover after a chemical peel is essential.

After a peel, your skin is much more sensitive so specialist care is needed. This is why it is important to follow your doctor’s guidelines carefully. Here are some expert tips for post-peel skin care:

• Use cool water to cleanse your face. This will help to soothe any redness or swelling of the skin after your treatment.
• Apply a good moisturizer
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Use an SPF 30+ sunscreen to protect your more delicate skin from the aging effects of the sun
• Don’t perform strenuous workouts or visit saunas and steam rooms. These things can irritate your sensitive post-peel skin.
• Avoid exfoliating for a few days after your peel. Exfoliating could increase the redness and sensitivity you experience after your treatment

Which moisturizer should you choose?

Keeping your skin well moisturized can speed up healing and help to prevent scarring. But, with so many moisturizers available on the market, how do you choose the best one?

As a chemical peel disrupts your skin’s natural protective barrier, it is beneficial to reinforce this barrier using a medium or thick moisturizer. This moisturizer should also be neutral and gentle, containing no harsh chemicals or fragrances to avoid irritation. Zinc oxide creams, in particular, can provide gentle moisturization to the skin post-peel.

Can I use makeup after a chemical peel?

This will really depend upon the strength of your peel. With some superficial peels, you may be able to wear makeup the next day. However, deeper peels may require 7-10 makeup-free days after treatment.

Again, it is important to follow your doctor’s advice, as applying makeup too soon can lead to increased irritation.

How long will it take to recover from a chemical peel?

This will also depend upon the strength and depth of your peel.

Skin will typically take 1-7 days to heal after a light peel, 7-14 days after a medium peel and 2-3 weeks after a deep peel.

Following a good post-treatment skincare routine will help to speed up the healing process.

Effectiveness of chemical peels for acne scars: amazing results clear in before and after pics

Chemical peels are a popular cosmetic treatment choice for acne scarring and the reason for this is simple—they provide great results! The dramatic difference is clear to see when browsing through before and after pictures.

When choosing your treatment provider, ask to see before and after pictures of patients that they have previously treated. This will help to reassure you about their standard of work.

Will a dermatologist perform my chemical peel?

While there are weaker, superficial DIY chemical peels that you can perform in the comfort of your own home, stronger peels should always be performed by a qualified dermatologist. This will ensure that you get the most effective results and the safest possible care, limiting the risk of any adverse effects, such as discoloration and scarring. Your chosen dermatologist should assess your skin type and condition prior to deciding on your treatment; their expert analysis is essential for deciding on the best course of action for you.

Can I get a DIY chemical peel for my acne scars?

There are low-strength, at-home peels available that can improve the condition of oily and breakout-prone skin. These provide a mild exfoliation all over the face, which can help with some acne scarring. However, if you have deep acne scarring or lots of scars, then it is probably worthwhile booking an appointment with your dermatologist for a deeper peel.

How much does a chemical peel treatment cost?

It is difficult to answer this question as the cost of a chemical peel varies greatly depending upon the chemical strength that you require. Within the Boston area, the price tag for a light peel can be as low as $150, while a deep peel may set you back up to $3000. The current average cost of a chemical peel, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, is around $669.

Once you have chosen your physician, you can discuss how much they will charge you for your individual treatment at your initial consultation appointment.

How much is a chemical peel for acne scars?

The cost of a peel for the treatment of your acne scars depends upon the severity and extent of your scarring. If you have deeper scarring and require a stronger peel, then you will have to pay more for this.

You can often combine your peel with other treatments, for example, dermaplaning. Most MedSpas offer a bundle deal for multiple treatments that are booked at the same time.

Conclusion

Lactic acid is a type of AHA present in many exfoliating skin care products. It removes the top layer of the dead skin cells and can help improve skin texture, reduce dark spots, smooth fine lines, and cleanse pores.

A person can find OTC products containing lactic acid or visit a dermatologist to undergo facial chemical peels containing stronger concentrations.

Side effects can include skin irritation and increased sensitivity to the sun. Before using the product, people should perform a patch test and apply daily sun protection when using goods containing lactic acid.