Lactic acid in skincare
An alpha-hydroxy acid used for both moisture binding and pH regulation.
What is lactic acid?
An alpha-hydroxy acid used for both moisture binding and pH regulation. On the ingredient list, you can find the name Lactic Acid. The dictionary uses both the common name and the INCI name, so you can compare the explanation with the packaging.
What does lactic acid do for skin and the product?
Can be used for exfoliation or pH adjustment depending on the formulation.
Active ingredients are used for a specific skincare purpose. Amount, stability and combination with other ingredients determine what a product can do. An ingredient name alone does not substantiate a particular result.
Lactic acid on the list does not necessarily mean the product is a peel.
How to read the ingredient list
Look at the product's purpose and overall composition. Position on the list does not tell you the exact concentration used or how your skin will react. One substance can serve several purposes in the same product.
Questions about lactic acid
What does lactic acid do in skincare?
Can be used for exfoliation or pH adjustment depending on the formulation.
What should I know about lactic acid?
Lactic acid on the list does not necessarily mean the product is a peel.
Related ingredients
About sources and ingredient names
The European Commission's CosIng database is a reference for cosmetic ingredient names and functions. An entry does not constitute approval of all uses or evidence of a particular product effect.
DermNet: functions of moisturising care · DermNet: cosmetic formulations