Ingredient Spotlight – AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) / Lactic Acid
- Macy
- Mar 5, 2022
- 1 min read
Lactic acid is extracted from the fermentation of lactose — a carbohydrate found in milk, the same as the active agent in yogourt. It was rumoured to have been used by the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra in her bath to maintain her youthful look.
I am sharing some of the resources I found, including two articles, one video link, and a product I would love to try (though I make my own skin care products)
Briefly, the benefits of appropriate dosage can remove dead skin cells by exfoliation, keep the skin moisturized and better hydrated, provide a more even skin completion by fading out dark spots, and improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating the renewal of collagen.
On the contrary, we have to be aware on the potential risks by watch the concentration level of this exfoliation ingredient, especially for people with sensitive skin. Like vitamin C or fruity acid, it may attribute the sun sensitivity to our skin. It is strongly recommended not be use with the combination of retinoid products as both have exfoliation purposes. The products containing AHA Lactic Acid should be used at night time and we need to wear sun screen protection during the days even when it’s a cloudy day.
Recommended readings: An Overview of Lactic Acid Skin Care, Verywellhealth What to Know About Lactic Acid for Skin Care, WebMD How to Exfoliate Your Skin: A Guide, Doctorly on YouTube
Related product found online (I do not affiliate with the site below. No purchase is encouraged) Kiehl’s Facial Treatment Essence on Sephora (main ingredients: Ferulic Acid, Lactic Acid (AHA), Squalane)
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