Lactic acid is a natural alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) produced by the body during glucose metabolism. In cosmetics, it is used as an exfoliating and moisturizing agent.
What is lactic acid and how does it work?
Lactic acid acts on the stratum corneum, breaking the bonds between dead skin cells to facilitate exfoliation. Unlike glycolic acid, it has a larger molecule, which makes it less penetrating and less irritating - ideal for sensitive skin.
Benefits of lactic acid for the skin
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Gentle exfoliation - removes dead cells without irritating the skin;
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Hydration - stimulates the production of ceramides and hyaluronic acid;
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Even skin tone - reduces pigment spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation;
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Reduction of fine lines - by stimulating cell renewal;
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Antibacterial effect - useful for acne-prone skin;
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Regulation of skin pH - maintains the skin's natural balance.
Who can use lactic acid?
Lactic acid is suitable for most skin types. It is better tolerated than glycolic acid and can be used by people with sensitive skin. Avoid in cases of active eczema or skin with open lesions.
How do I integrate lactic acid into my skincare routine?
- Use products with concentrations of 5-12% for regular use;
- Apply in the evening, after cleansing and before moisturizing cream;
- Start with a low frequency (2-3 times/week) and increase gradually;
- Always use SPF in the morning - AHAs increase sun sensitivity.
Lactic acid vs. glycolic acid - which is better?
Glycolic acid has higher efficacy due to its smaller molecule, but also a higher risk of irritation. Lactic acid is preferred for sensitive skin or beginners. Both are AHAs and function through the same mechanism.
Lactic acid helps remove dead skin cells and assists in fading pigment spots and softening wrinkles. Additionally, lactic acid is also a moisturizing agent.
To integrate AHAs into your daily routine, the 3% Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel from Ivatherm offers gentle exfoliation with glycolic acid, removing dead cells and evening out skin tone without irritation.
The benefits of lactic acid for the skin and how it can be integrated into your skin care routine
Lactic acid is a natural alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) produced by the body during glucose metabolism. In cosmetics, it is used as an exfoliating and moisturizing agent.
What is lactic acid and how does it work?
Lactic acid acts on the stratum corneum, breaking the bonds between dead skin cells to facilitate exfoliation. Unlike glycolic acid, it has a larger molecule, which makes it less penetrating and less irritating - ideal for sensitive skin.
Benefits of lactic acid for the skin
Who can use lactic acid?
Lactic acid is suitable for most skin types. It is better tolerated than glycolic acid and can be used by people with sensitive skin. Avoid in cases of active eczema or skin with open lesions.
How do I integrate lactic acid into my skincare routine?
Lactic acid vs. glycolic acid - which is better?
Glycolic acid has higher efficacy due to its smaller molecule, but also a higher risk of irritation. Lactic acid is preferred for sensitive skin or beginners. Both are AHAs and function through the same mechanism.
Lactic acid helps remove dead skin cells and assists in fading pigment spots and softening wrinkles. Additionally, lactic acid is also a moisturizing agent.
To integrate AHAs into your daily routine, the 3% Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel from Ivatherm offers gentle exfoliation with glycolic acid, removing dead cells and evening out skin tone without irritation.
Echipa Ivatherm
Conținutul IvaStories este creat de echipa Ivatherm, brand romanesc de dermatocosmetice fondat de Dr. Rucsandra Hurezeanu. Produsele Ivatherm sunt formulate cu Apă Termală Herculane și sunt testate dermatologic, recomandate de medici specialiști.