Loved by the iconic Cleopatra - who used to bath in soured donkey milk to reap the benefits of this fabulous ingredient - lactic acid deserves a spot in your skincare regime. Just maybe by a slightly less extravagant method than the Egyptian Queen's, but you know - whatever you prefer.
Lactic acid is part of the AHA family (alpha hydroxyl acids), so acts as a mild exfoliant to give you baby-soft skin and also lighten any superficial hyper-pigmentation marks (aka dark/ age spots).
For the science lovers - the chemical formula is C3H6O3 and it is a polar molecule, meaning it will dissolve in water.
Read on for benefits & product recommendations...
WHAT SKIN ISSUES CAN IT HELP WITH?
Wrinkles & fine lines
Hyper-pigmentation
Acne
Dehydrated skin
HOW DOES IT WORK & WHAT DOES IT DO?
As an AHA, lactic acid works as an exfoliant. It is a slightly larger molecule than the other popular AHAs on the market - such as glycolic acid - meaning it does not penetrate the skin as deeply. This makes it a brilliant option for those with sensitive skin or those who are just starting their journey with acids and want to start slow.
Now there's a huge benefit to lactic acid that is unique within the AHA family - which are its moisturizing properties. Most acids, although brilliant for their exfoliating effects, are notorious for drying out skin. Lactic acid on the other hand helps the skin stay moisturised and feel less dry - it forms part of the NMF (natural moisturizing factor) of the skin and promotes ceramide biosynthesis.
What are the negatives? Compared to other AHAs it is a weaker exfoliating agent (due to its size) thus won’t be able to help you with those deeper lines.
CONCENTRATIONS & HOW TO USE:
In terms of dosage, you will usually find it over the counter at about a concentration of 5-10% for a gentle peel, but you can purchase it at 50% - not for the fainthearted. Starting at 5-10% is good for most people, as it less likely to be irritating but still give you that glow. Frequency of use will depend on the concentration that you purchase - make sure you read the instructions before you lather it on your face.
Note - as you are exfoliating, your skin may become more sensitive, so it is even more important to make sure you're wearing that SPF 30 minimum.
PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS:
Sunday Riley's Travel Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment - £££ but fabulous
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA - budget friendly, also available at 5%
Dermalogica Gentle Cream Exfoliant - great for more sensitive skin types
CeraVe Smoothing Cream - also great for sensitive skin types
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Purifying Gel Wash - for body use
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Et voilà! Let me know in the comments how you get on - cannot guarantee the outcome will be as beautiful as Cleopatra's but hopefully we'll be a step closer.
Lots of love,
Madeleine xoxo