The benefits of lactic acid for the skin

In the family of beneficial acids for the skin, we pick lactic acid. This ingredient, which has become ultra-popular in recent years, is said to have the power to improve the appearance of our skin. How to use it safely? We take stock.

What is lactic acid?

L’Lactic acid is a substance naturally produced by red blood cells, skin cells and muscle tissue and fibers when they lack oxygen, such as during intense physical exertion. This substance is also found in dairy products, fruits and vegetables and wine. Secreted in too large quantities by the body, lactic acid can cause cramps, pain or even burns. This is also why athletes try to eliminate it as quickly as possible.

Applied to the skin, lactic acid has many benefits. In cosmetics, it is used in synthetic form, thanks to fruit extracts or lactose fermentation. These treatments with lactic acid are good supplements to improve the appearance of the skin, such as those enriched with vitamin C or at thehyaluronic acid for example. Indeed, the body does not produce enough of this acid, so that we see a difference on the skin without using dedicated cosmetics. Today, it is mainly present in anti-aging care, with an action on wrinkles and firmness and on wrinkles, or in exfoliating care.

Lactic acid is one of the alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), along with glycolic acid. It is also often associated with other substances such as hyaluronic acid orsacylic acid.

Lactic acid helps regulate skin acidity: it lowers skin pH in order to eliminate bad bacteria and keep only the good ones.

It is used as an exfoliant or peeling, more or less strong depending on its concentration, to improve the appearance of the skin and the radiance of the complexion. It stimulates the renewal of skin cells without attacking it.

When present in small quantities, it is also considered a natural moisturizer, in order to plump and hydrate the epidermis.

What are the benefits of lactic acid for the skin?

We told you, lactic acid has new benefits for the epidermis. Depending on its concentration, it allows to:

• Eliminate dead cells and impurities
• Unclog pores and fight blackheads
• Act on dull complexions and boost radiance
• Improve the natural hydration of the skin
• Reduce pigment spots
• Stimulate cell renewal and collagen production
• Smooth lines and wrinkles
• Soothe the skin and calm redness
• Reduce the appearance of acne scars

It is therefore interesting to include lactic acid in your daily beauty routine, in the form of an exfoliant or serum.

Lactic acid: for which type of skin?

Lactic acid is mostly theally for sensitive skinbecause it is less aggressive than other acids.

It can be used on all skin types, but will be less effective on combination to oily skin. Lactic acid is indeed a hydrophilic active, this means that it is soluble in water. To be truly effective, it is therefore recommended to combine it with sacylic acid, which is soluble in fat. This will unclog deep pores and eliminate blackheads.

Lactic acid can be used daily, with a serum-type treatment, to be applied every evening.

Otherwise, you can use it as an exfoliant or peeling, once a week.

• If you have the sensitive skinopt for night care with a fairly low concentration or for a slightly more concentrated exfoliant.
• If you have the dry skin, it’s the hydrating side of lactic acid that you’re going to be looking for. So choose a moisturizer containing it.

Do not hesitate to ask your dermatologist for advice before you start!

Which lactic acid treatments to choose?

There are many treatments with lactic acid. Here are our favorites.

• Olehenriksen Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner

This product is rich in very powerful AHAs. It pigment spots, fine lines and wrinkles, illuminates and smoothes the texture.

• Agent Nateur Clarifying Cleanser

This facial cleanser helps fight the first signs of aging.

• P peelingaula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 25% AHA + 2% BHA

This peeling helps eliminate dead cells to regenerate the surface of the skin and reduce the signs of aging.

• The Ordinary Lactic Acid Peeling Serum

This serum gently exfoliates the epidermis and reduces inflammation.

What are the dangers of lactic acid on the skin?

Lactic acid can cause certain side effects if it is poorly tolerated. It can cause burning sensations, redness or itching. Be sure to stop using the product if this is the case, as well as always do a test in the crook of your elbow before applying any product to your face.

You should also know that lactic acid is a photosensitizing substance. It is therefore not used in the evening and requires a reinforced sun protection during the day, especially in summer.