Why This Ingredient is Key!
Lactic Acid is a commonly used Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that you may have noticed on the ingredient list of your favourite exfoliator or even moisturiser. This versatile AHA is one of the more gentle chemical exfoliants out there, which is why it is so popular. Lactic Acid is the perfect skincare ingredient for anyone looking to brighten their dull complexion or sort out some pesky hyperpigmentation. Also working to reduce the appearance of pores and stimulate collagen renewal, lactic acid is a milder alternative to other AHAs such as glycolic acid. Lactic Acid can be used in a very simple form for those who want to use this chemical exfoliant as a targeted step in their nightly routine, or you can choose to use a skincare product that incorporates lactic acid into its formulation.
If you choose a weaker Lactic Acid, this can be used every day, while those stronger formulations should only be used a few times a week. Most people choose to use products containing lactic acid on alternate days when starting out, as well as using them at night to give your skin the chance to renew overnight while you rest. There are many ways to incorporate lactic acid into your skincare routine so you are sure to find the perfect product to suit your skin needs.
Dermalogica Skin Resurfacing Cleanser
If you are ready to experience a new level of clean skin, the Dermalogica Skin Resurfacing Cleanser contains a highly-active Lactic Acid concentrate to help reduce the signs of ageing. This deep cleanse will remove any dulling debris from your skin surface and help speed up the skin renewal process. The addition of vitamin E means that your skin will not only appear softer but will have a stronger moisture barrier to help make these glowing effects last longer.
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The Ordinary Lactic Acid
The Ordinary have two different strengths of Lactic Acid to appeal to a wide range of skin types. Their Lactic Acid 5% + HA 2% is the more mild strength exfoliant, combined with the calming Tasmanian Pepperberry to give your skin a gentle exfoliation. While this amount of lactic acid may be perfect for some people with easily irritated skin, this lower strength formula can be used as a stepping stone to the Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%. This higher strength formula refines your skin texture and appearance, with the same anti-inflammatory properties as the 5% formulation. These products are a great way to introduce lactic acid into your skincare routine due to their flexibility. You can combine these treatments with your moisturiser or facial oils to lower the strength and slowly introduce the new product into your nightly routine.
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Skinstitut L-Lactic Cleanser
If you are after a way to use Lactic Acid on a daily basis, the Skinstitut L-Lactic Cleanser can be used every night to gently cleanse and exfoliate your complexion. Due to the delicate nature of this cleanser, your skin will appear deeply hydrated as the lactic acid provides essential moisture while working to clear congestion. Continued use of this cleanser will help visibly improve the texture and tone of your skin, so there is no reason not to try it!
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Alpha-H Liquid Gold Ultimate Perfecting Mask
Sometimes a targeted treatment mask is exactly what our skin needs! The Alpha-H Liquid Gold Ultimate Perfecting Mask combines Lactic Acid with Glycolic Acid to promote collagen production, refine your complexion and attract moisture to the skin's surface. Additionally, this has been formulated with mature skin in mind. We find it is the best way to treat the signs of ageing such as deep wrinkles, sun damage or enlarged pores. You will notice your skin has a youthful glow and appears stronger thanks to the power of gentle exfoliation and replenishing ingredients.
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Youngblood Advanced Refining Serum
The Youngblood Advanced Refining Serum exfoliating and refining serum has 5% Lactic Acid to retexturise your skin. The addition of Hyaluronic Acid, Squalane and Aloe Extract ensures that your complexion won't be left feeling unbalanced. This is because they all work to plump and hydrate your skin. The added benefit of Licorice and Prickly Pear Extract means any redness that may appear will be reduced so your skin looks clear and flawless.
Shop ThisThe skincare benefits of lactic acid appear to be endless! However, it is important to remember when using an AHA such as Lactic Acid that these ingredients increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun. We are sure that having a product with a high level of sun protection is already an important step in your morning routine, but consider this a friendly reminder! Now you know your skin is protected, you can really start to enjoy the results you can achieve by introducing lactic acid into your skincare routine.
With Graphic Design qualifications in one hand and e-commerce experience in the other, Lilly applies a wealth of industry knowledge with a keen eye on trending beauty products that really deliver. Writing from experience with the connection between a healthy gut and healthy skin, Lilly puts her 10 years at Activeskin to good use through her beautiful blogs that equip and empower you with great know-how, to transform your beauty regime at home. A true picture of health with youthful elegance, she also knows coffee comes first!