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Lactic acid is a frequent component in several over-the-counter (OTC) skincare products. Medical centres can access higher concentration levels of it. In addition to being an exfoliator and an antioxidant, lactic acid also helps to hydrate the skin. Lactic acid formulations for domestic application are typically gentle, having about 10% or less. Products that must be administered professionally contain more than 10% lactic acid. In this post, we will talk about lactic acid’s definition, the effects of lactic acid body lotion on the skin, and how to perform a patch test for it.
The advantages of using lactic acid body lotion on your skin are numerous.
What exactly is lactic acid?
One of the most popular forms of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) utilized in beauty and skincare products, especially lactic acid body lotion, is lactic acid. OTC commercial exfoliants and specialized chemical peels usually contain AHAs. Lactic acid is majorly generated by the fermentation of beet sugar or cornflour, making it suitable for vegetarians. It may also be produced through milk fermentation.
Other forms of AHAs consist of the following:
- Tartaric acid – obtained from grapes
- Citric acid – generated from citrus fruits
- Glycolic acid – obtained from sugar cane
- Malic acid – is derived from apples.
The lactic acid particle tends to be bigger than the other alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid. A bigger molecule implies that it cannot enter the skin as profoundly, so you’re receiving more surface therapy, like exfoliating and, thus, brightening.
This is fantastic information for people who have sensitive skin. They will probably be likely to withstand the effects of lactic acid exfoliating far better than those of glycolic or retinol. Lactic acid also has a lower propensity than glycolic or salicylic acid to alter your skin’s pH, preserving the integrity of your skin’s normal moisture layer.
Advantages Of Using Lactic Acid Body Lotion
Lactic acid is the second most investigated AHA after glycolic acid. Lactic acid benefits are well established. It helps to remove deposited old skin cells from the epidermis, the top layer of skin, and stimulates cell turnover. Here are a few benefits which you will gradually start noticing after using lactic acid body lotion –
- Enhancing skin colour and appearance
- Improving skin tightness or texture
- Minimizing dark patches
- Removing superficial wrinkles and fine lines
- Cleaning and unclogging pores
The skin becomes fuller and firmer when lactic acid at 12% concentration is used. As an outcome, there are fewer superficial and underlying creases and a generally finer appearance. These results demonstrate that lactic acid may penetrate the innermost layers of skin at such large concentrations. The middle layer of skin is unaffected by less than 5% lower doses. Nonetheless, they have a comparable impact on the surface.
Carrying out a patch test for lactic acid body lotion
The likelihood that a lactic acid body lotion may upset someone’s skin depends on the concentration of lactic acid present in it. Before switching to stronger dosages, individuals should always perform a patch test and start with a lesser dosage.
It is advised to follow these steps while testing the skin care products –
- Administer the lactic acid body lotion to a test area, like the backside of the hand or the elbow curve. Employ the same quantity and consistency as if they were being implemented ordinarily. This should be repeated twice a day for 7–10 days.
- Keep the medication on for the recommended time, as stated on the packaging.
- Continue using the product if there is no discomfort or irritation.
Who should stay away from lactic acid?
Although lactic acid is suitable for most skin types, it is advised to take care of in some cases. Those with particularly sensitive or irritated skin might not always be able to handle lactic acid or apply it as frequently as people with other skin types. However, if it is administered gradually and the skin is given the time to acclimatize, it should be all right most of the time.
Lactic acid body lotion is considered harmless if administered during pregnancy, due to its acceptable qualities. To be safe:
- Use products with low concentrations.
- Always conduct a trial run to check how your skin responds.
- Remember that hormonal imbalances might also affect your skin’s typical tolerance limits.
Bottom Line
When used in a carefully prepared exfoliating solution, the skincare component lactic acid swiftly provides a number of advantages. Lactic acid formulations come in different forms. It can be a product meant to be kept on the skin or a strong exfoliator to be washed after some time. Lactic acid body lotion acts by gradually rupturing the bindings that retain old, dried skin cells when applied correctly. OTC lactic acid products are sold in concentrations from 5% to more than 30%.
However, a bigger proportion is not necessarily preferable. Your skin may become irritated if you apply a large proportion of the product immediately away. Begin with a very mild product with a concentration of 5% to 10% if you have never used OTC lactic acid body lotion previously. This will help you observe how your skin responds and give your skin some time to adjust to the component after finishing up if the outcomes are satisfactory. Then, you can continue to use the same level of dosage.