{"id":682815,"date":"2025-11-13T05:30:38","date_gmt":"2025-11-13T02:30:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=682815"},"modified":"2025-11-13T05:30:38","modified_gmt":"2025-11-13T02:30:38","slug":"how-lactic-acid-can-improve-your-skin-according-to-the-experts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=682815","title":{"rendered":"How Lactic Acid Can Improve Your Skin, According To The Experts"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
Skin<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

How Lactic Acid Can Improve Your Skin, According To The Experts<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
By <\/span>Georgia Day<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n

November 12, 2025<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n
<\/p>\n
\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

<\/span><\/p>\n

CoffeeAndMilk<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n

Aimed at softening and smoothing skin by gently but effectively exfoliating the top layer of skin, lactic acid can significantly improve the appearance of all skin types with regular use. It can be one of a few acids included in a clever serum or a brilliant mask, or be used as a standalone treatment swept on with a cotton pad. Here\u2019s what you need to know, along with how to use it.<\/p>\n

\n

Key takeaways<\/h2>\n
    \n
  • Lactic acid is a gentle chemical exfoliant that helps to refine skin texture, remove dead skin cells, and assist in efficient skin cell turnover.<\/li>\n
  • Lactic acid is sensitive skin-friendly, as well as being suitable for dry skin types.<\/li>\n
  • Lactic acid can help the skin to retain moisture, as well as gently exfoliating.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
    \n

    What is lactic acid?<\/h2>\n

    Lactic acid is an exfoliant derived from the fermentation of lactose found in milk. You might recognize it as Cleopatra\u2019s skincare ingredient of choice, although today\u2019s sophisticated formulations mean there\u2019s thankfully no need to bathe in sour milk in order to benefit.<\/p>\n

    An alpha hydroxy acid, or AHA for short, lactic acid is from the same family of acids as glycolic acid and mandelic acid, and, like them, is renowned for its ability to encourage cellular turnover and keep skin healthy and bright.<\/p>\n

    How does it work on the skin?<\/h2>\n

    A water-soluble compound, lactic acid works by breaking down dead skin cells. \u201cLactic acid disrupts the bonds between dead skin cells in the outer layer of the skin, allowing them to be shed more easily,\u201d explains Dr. Derrick Phillips, a dermatologist with CeraVe. \u201cThis process not only reveals fresher and more youthful-looking skin, but also helps to unclog pores.\u201d<\/p>\n

    Because it\u2019s a larger molecule than other AHAs, lactic acid can\u2019t penetrate the skin as deeply, and so it\u2019s ideal for more superficial exfoliation on the surface of the skin. As well as giving brightening benefits, that means it\u2019s a great option for anyone with sensitive skin, as it doesn\u2019t have as much potential to irritate.<\/p>\n

    What are the benefits of lactic acid?<\/h2>\n
    Brighter skin<\/div>\n

    Skin brightening is one of the main benefits of using lactic acid, which means softer, smoother skin comes as standard, but it also plays a part in diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. That\u2019s because they\u2019re often formed in the very top layers of skin, and once you eliminate those, you reveal the fresh, younger skin underneath.<\/p>\n

    Increased collagen production<\/div>\n

    \u201cLactic acid can stimulate production of collagen and structural molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGS),\u201d adds Dr. Phillips, \u201cwhich results in firmer and plumper skin with fewer fine lines and wrinkles.\u201d<\/p>\n

    Help with acne and hyperpigmentation<\/div>\n

    The same is also true of shallow hyperpigmentation and even some spots and imperfections. \u201cIt has been shown to be effective at killing bacteria in the skin and some studies show it to be helpful in reducing acne lesions,\u201d says Dr. Emma Craythorne, consultant dermatologist and Klira Founder, so look out for it in your spot treatments, too.<\/p>\n

    Effective hydration<\/div>\n

    Another major benefit of lactic acid is its ability to hydrate skin. Unlike other AHAs, lactic acid has a unique structure that allows it to bind with water in the skin. This helps keep it hydrated by promoting moisture and encouraging skin to hold on to more of its own natural reserves.<\/p>\n

    Skin barrier support<\/div>\n

    Skin barrier health may be a buzz phrase in beauty right now, but it\u2019s essential if you want a healthy, hydrated complexion. A key component in this, lactic acid encourages the skin to make more ceramides, the lipids that form the glue between skin cells, helping to maintain the skin barrier\u2019s integrity and reduce inflammation.<\/p>\n

    Who should use lactic acid\u2014and who should skip it?<\/h2>\n

    Lactic acid is well tolerated by almost all skin types and can help with conditions from bumpy or rough skin texture to dullness, hyperpigmentation, dryness, and fine lines. In instances of a compromised skin barrier, though, lactic acid\u2014and other exfoliating acids in general\u2014are best to be avoided. This would include active eczema, psoriasis flare ups, or people with hypersensitive skin.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    \n
    \n

    Similarly, if you use a powerful retinoid or other potent exfoliating ingredients in your routine already, lactic acid is best introduced slowly. While it is decidedly more gentle than other acids, it is still an exfoliating agent.<\/p>\n

    Can lactic acid be used on the body?<\/h2>\n

    Its exfoliating prowess means lactic acid is an excellent ingredient to incorporate into your top-to-toe exfoliating regimen. If you have dry, scaly, or bumpy skin on areas like your elbows, knees, or the backs of your arms, it does a great job of sloughing off skin and helping to keep it smooth and soft, while also protecting the skin barrier\u2019s integrity. \u201cIt\u2019s very, very good for keratosis pilaris,\u201d adds Dr. Craythorne.<\/p>\n

    What\u2019s the best way to use lactic acid in your routine?<\/h2>\n

    Its versatility means lactic acid is found in many different formulations. Depending on what you\u2019re looking to achieve, you can use it in any type of product you like, although it\u2019s commonly combined with other hardworking AHAs in toner or serum form, which offers even better exfoliating results.<\/p>\n

    What percentage and pH to look for in skincare products with lactic acid?<\/h2>\n

    \u201cThe optimal percentage is the concentration that you can tolerate and comfortably incorporate into your skincare routine,\u201d advises Dr. Phillips. \u201cHigher concentrations are not necessarily better, and jumping to a high concentration may cause unwanted skin irritation. It is best to establish a percentage that your skin can tolerate and gradually increase over time. If you are new to lactic acid, I would recommend products containing five to 10%.\u201d<\/p>\n

    If you want more of an intensive treatment, then it\u2019s worth looking at lactic acid peels done in a professional setting, where concentration strengths can be greater. \u201cAt home strength is around 10% to 20%, and you are less likely to have problems, plus this can be just as effective when used daily or several times a week,\u201d says Dr. Craythorne.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    \n
    \n

    \u201cAn in-clinic peel would be for a more dramatic result, and if it\u2019s being used as a professional peel, it will be more than 30%. That would be a strong exfoliating peel, which some people might use for fine lines, aging, and removing blackheads.\u201d<\/p>\n

    How to pair lactic acid safely with other acids in your routine<\/h2>\n

    It\u2019s boring advice, but it works. When looking to use lactic acid safely\u2014meaning little to no irritation or adverse effects\u2014start slowly, especially if you are already using other acids or exfoliating ingredients. This means not layering lactic acid and retinol, for example, in the same routine. Instead, use lactic acid in the morning and save your retinol for your evening routine. Or, alternate days, switching between lactic acid and other exfoliating\/resurfacing ingredients.<\/p>\n

    Hydrating and moisturizing ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, can be safely used with lactic acid as they help to plump up moisture stores and maintain healthy skin barrier function.<\/p>\n

    Lactic vs glycolic vs mandelic acid<\/h2>\n

    The main difference between lactic, glycolic, and mandelic acid (which are all alpha-hydroxy acids) is the size of their molecules. Smaller molecules, like those of glycolic acid, are able to penetrate the skin more deeply and more quickly. Larger molecules, like lactic and madelic acid, on the other hand, work their way into the skin more slowly, making them less likely to cause irritation and sensitivity.<\/p>\n

    Because of its speed and efficiency, glycolic acid is best suited to oily, normal, or combination skin, while lactic and mandelic acids are best for gentle exfoliation, treating hyperpigmentation, and improving texture and radiance.<\/p>\n

    Can you use lactic acid every day?<\/h2>\n

    Unlike some BHAs (ie, salicylic acid, which goes deeper into skin, and even some other AHAs), lactic acid is usually a safe and effective bet for almost everyone. That said, you should always exercise caution when using active ingredients in your routine, which means not overdoing it, even if it seems to be working well.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    \n
    \n

    \u201cMost people are unable to tolerate using lactic acid every day, unless at very low concentrations,\u201d warns Dr. Phillips. \u201cDaily use may cause excessive exfoliation, disruption of the skin barrier, dryness, and irritation. It will also increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn.\u201d<\/p>\n

    For best results (and a happy, healthy skin barrier long-term), try to incorporate your chosen lactic acid product two to three times a week\u2014provided your skin can tolerate it.<\/p>\n

    Have a beauty or wellness trend you’re curious about? We want to know! Send<\/em>\u00a0Vogue’s senior beauty & wellness editor an email at\u00a0beauty@vogue.com.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n

    Source URL: http:\/\/vogue.com\/article\/lactic-acid<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    Skin How Lactic Acid Can Improve Your Skin, According To The Experts By Georgia Day November 12, 2025 CoffeeAndMilk Aimed at softening and smoothing skin by gently but effectively exfoliating the top layer of skin, lactic acid can significantly improve the appearance of all skin types with regular use. It can be one of a […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":682816,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[50],"class_list":["post-682815","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-politics","tag-vogue-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/682815","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=682815"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/682815\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/682816"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=682815"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=682815"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=682815"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}