What are the effects of lactic acid on the skin?
Lactic acid is a well-known skincare ingredient, but did you know that it often comes from dairy products? This alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) is derived from lactose, a sugar found in milk. Used for centuries, notably in Cleopatra's legendary milk baths,lactic acid has proven its effectiveness in improving skin health and appearance.
Gentle exfoliation
One oflactic acid's most notable effects on the skin is its exfoliating power. By helping to dissolve the bonds between dead cells on the skin's surface, it enables gentle yet effective exfoliation. Unlike some more aggressive mechanical or chemical exfoliants,lactic acid is gentle enough to be used by people with sensitive skin. It promotes a brighter, more even complexion by removing dead cells that can dull the skin. It is often compared tosalicylic acid, which is also a gentle exfoliant.
Improved hydration
Another benefit oflactic acid is its moisturizing power. As well as exfoliating, this acid acts as a humectant, meaning it helps the skin retain moisture. This is particularly beneficial for dry or dehydrated skin. Products containinglactic acid can therefore help improve the skin barrier, leaving skin softer, smoother and better hydrated.
Reduction of wrinkles and fine lines
With regular use,lactic acid can also help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By stimulating cell renewal and promoting collagen production, this acid helps firm skin and reduce the signs of aging. Mature skin can particularly benefit from this rejuvenating effect, achieving smoother, more elastic skin.
Improved skin texture
Lactic acid is also known to improve overall skin texture. It helps refine skin texture, reducing the appearance of enlarged pores and smoothing irregularities. Skin prone to blemishes,acne scars or textural irregularities can benefit from regular use of products containing this ingredient.
Lightening of pigmentation spots
Lactic acid lightens pigmentation spots thanks to its exfoliating action and ability to stimulate cell renewal. Here's how it works:
- Exfoliation of the upper layers of the skin
Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates the upper layers of the skin. It dissolves the bonds between dead cells that accumulate on the skin's surface. These dead cells can make the complexion dull and accentuate the appearance of pigmentation spots. By removing them, lactic acid reveals fresher, more even skin.
- Stimulates cell renewal
By exfoliating the skin, lactic acid also accelerates the cell renewal process. This means that the pigmented cells responsible for dark spots are replaced more rapidly by new, healthy cells. With regular use, this helps to progressively reduce the visibility of dark spots.
- Brightening the complexion
Lactic acid helps even out skin tone by reducing pigmentation differences. By improving desquamation (the renewal process of the superficial layers of the epidermis), it diminishes the appearance of pigmentation spots caused by factors such as the sun, acne or aging.
- Improved absorption of lightening products
By exfoliating the skin, lactic acid also enables better absorption of other lightening or depigmenting products that might be used as a complement. These products can then penetrate deeper into the skin and act more effectively on pigmentation spots.
Tolerance for sensitive skin
One of the great advantages oflactic acid is its tolerance by sensitive skin. Unlike other AHAs such as glycolic acid, which can be irritating to some skin types,lactic acid is often better tolerated, even by those with reactive skin. However, as with any acid, we recommend starting with a low concentration and gradually increasing to avoid irritation.
Conclusion
Lactic acid, derived from dairy products, is a versatile ingredient that offers numerous benefits for the skin. Whether you're looking to gently exfoliate, deeply moisturize, reduce the signs of aging or improve skin texture,lactic acid can be an excellent choice. Thanks to its ability to be well tolerated by sensitive skin, it's an affordable and effective option for improving skin health and appearance.