The guides · Chemical exfoliants
Lactic Acid
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Alpha-hydroxy acid derived from fermentation. Larger molecule than glycolic acid — gentler exfoliation profile. Also functions as a humectant.
What it does
Suited to sensitive skin seeking the look of smoother texture.
The facts
- Effective pH
- 3.5–4.0
- Category
- Chemical exfoliants
- Also known as
- Lactic, AHA Lactic
- Pregnancy
- Generally considered fine; ask your doctor
Pairs with · fights with
Pairs well with
Conflicts
- Retinoidssame night
- High-concentration BHA same step
Before you use it
Good entry point for AHA first-timers. Found naturally in fermented formulas (e.g. Biologique Recherche P50). Increases photosensitivity.
On the label
Listed as "lactic acid". 5–12% is the effective range in leave-on formulas. Some "fermented" products contain naturally occurring lactic acid — check if a meaningful concentration is present.
This guide is editorial, not medical advice. For a condition, a reaction or a medical question, see a dermatologist.
See also
Glycolic Acid
Alpha-hydroxy acid with the smallest molecular weight of the AHA family, allowing relatively deeper skin penetration.…
Read the guide →Mandelic Acid
Alpha-hydroxy acid with the largest molecular weight of common AHAs — produces the most gradual exfoliation. Particul…
Read the guide →Gluconolactone
Polyhydroxy acid (PHA) — chemical exfoliant with a larger molecular weight than AHAs. Delivers the smoothing effect o…
Read the guide →
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