Skin Care: Role of Lactic Acid, Advantages, and Associated Products
Lactic acid, a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), has become a popular ingredient in many cosmetic products due to its numerous benefits for the skin. This acid acts as a gentle exfoliant, promoting skin regeneration and maintaining a youthful appearance over time.
Improved Skin Tone and Texture
Lactic acid helps to shed dead skin cells, smoothing rough spots and brightening areas of dullness, thereby improving skin tone and texture [1].
Stimulation of Collagen Production
Regular use of lactic acid can stimulate collagen production, which contributes to reducing fine lines and signs of skin aging, offering a gentle alternative to harsher anti-aging treatments [2].
Reduction of Pigmentation
Lactic acid also reduces melanin synthesis, thereby lessening pigmentation issues like dark spots and uneven skin tone, contributing to a brighter complexion [5].
Safe Usage and Precautions
Over-the-counter (OTC) products typically contain lactic acid concentrations ranging from . For stronger formulations or more visible and immediate results, professional chemical peels may be required [4].
It's essential to perform a patch test before using lactic acid products to check for irritation or inflammation. Also, lactic acid can increase skin sensitivity to the sun, so it's important to wear sunscreen when using it [1].
Professional Chemical Peels
Professional chemical peels are available for stronger formulations or more visible and immediate results. There are three levels of dermatologist-provided chemical peels: refreshing or lunchtime peels, medium peels, and deep peels [6].
Cautions and Considerations
Caution is advised to avoid overuse, which can cause irritation, redness, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in darker skin tones [1]. Pregnant individuals should speak with a dermatologist before undergoing treatments [7].
Long-Term Effects and Benefits
Long-term use of lactic acid provides benefits like smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin, mainly through exfoliation, collagen stimulation, and pigmentation control [1][2][5].
Alternating with Other Products
People can alternate using products containing lactic acid with other anti-aging products, such as vitamin C and retinoid creams [8]. If side effects occur, it's advisable to contact a doctor or dermatologist [9].
After using lactic acid peels, a person may experience inflammation, mild swelling, mild discomfort, peeling, or flaking skin [10]. Lactic acid chemical peels remove the top layer of dead skin cells, improving skin texture and tone, reducing dark spots, smoothing fine lines and surface wrinkles, and unblocking and cleansing pores [11].
Most lactic acid is produced by a fermentation process using cornstarch or beet sugar, making some products suitable for vegans [12]. The FDA requires an ingredient declaration on all cosmetic products sold to end users [13].
In conclusion, lactic acid offers numerous benefits for skin care, including improved skin tone and texture, stimulation of collagen production, reduction of fine lines, and inhibition of melanin synthesis, which can decrease pigmentation and brighten skin. As with any skincare product, it's essential to use lactic acid responsibly and consult a dermatologist for personalised advice.
References:
- Paula's Choice
- Healthline
- Byrdie
- American Academy of Dermatology
- WebMD
- American Academy of Dermatology
- American Academy of Dermatology
- Byrdie
- American Academy of Dermatology
- American Academy of Dermatology
- American Academy of Dermatology
- Byrdie
- Food and Drug Administration
- Many skincare products in the health-and-wellness and lifestyle sectors utilize hydroxy acids like lactic acid, believed to be derived from science through fermentation processes involving cornstarch or beet sugar, making them suitable for vegan skincare routines.
- Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as lactic acid, are recognized for their beneficial impact on the skin, specifically in promoting skin regeneration, smoothing the texture, and generating a youthful appearance over time, thanks to their properties as gentle exfoliants.
- Skincare dermatology has embraced the use of lactic acid for improving skin health, as it not only stimulates collagen production but also reduces the production of melanin, thus alleviating pigmentation issues like dark spots and uneven skin tone, leading to a brighter complexion.
- Home-and-garden skincare enthusiasts may encounter diverse lactic acid concentrations in over-the-counter (OTC) products, typically ranging from 5-12%, with stronger formulations requiring professional chemical peels from dermatologists for more evident and immediate results.
- To maintain skincare best practices, it's essential to undertake patch tests before using lactic acid products and wear sunscreen to protect against sun sensitivity, adhering to cautions and considering expert dermatological advice for an optimized skincare regimen.
