What is Lactic Acid? Effects of Lactic acid on skin care

You’ve probably heard of lactic acid, which is commonly found in milk. But it is also very frequently found in professional skin care products and treatments. So what use do they have on the skin, let’s find the answer with Tnhelearning.edu.vn in the following article!

What is Lactic Acid?

Lactic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid or AHA . Their molecular structure allows to penetrate deep into the skin cells, has a high ability to hydrate and moisturize, making the skin soft . They are suitable for all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin.

Structure of Lactic Acid

There are two types of lactic acid: natural lactic acid and synthetic lactic acid . Lactic acid naturally occurs in milk and dairy products, especially yogurt. Synthetic lactic acid is commonly found in over-the-counter cosmetics and prescription products.

Lactic acid naturally occurs in yogurt

With special properties to help skin become surprisingly smooth, lactic acid is also suitable for all skin types . Especially for dry and sensitive skin , this compound also helps to regenerate the skin structure and after just a few uses, you will notice a noticeable improvement.

Lactic acid in cosmetics

The effects on the skin of lactic acids are highly dependent on their concentration and pH . According to a study published in the journal Molecules (Molecular) in 2018, lactic acid with a concentration of about 5 – 12% and a pH of 3 – 4 will give the best results on the skin . A pH below 3 can cause skin irritation.

Benefits of Lactic Acid

Kill death celk

Lactic acid will gently break down dry and dead skin cell structures on the surface. Therefore, lactic acid acts as an exfoliant for the skin , stimulating skin cell regeneration, helping to improve rough, rough skin.

Lactic acid acts as an exfoliant for the skin

Moisturises, softens, and keeps skin healthy

Compared to other AHAs, lactic acid has the ability to hydrate. Therefore, lactic acid helps to hydrate and moisturize the skin better , reducing the problem of dry skin after use that is common in other AHAs.

Research by Rawlings et al in 1996 in the journal Arch Dermatol Res – Archives of Dermatological Research shows that lactic acid stimulates the production of ceramides, a component of healthy skin, strengthening the skin barrier. Therefore, they help healthier skin, especially sensitive skin.

Fades acne scars, brightens skin, evens skin tone

In the process of removing dead skin, lactic acid helps brighten skin, correct dull skin, and even skin tone . Lactic acid concentration 5 – 12% has a very good effect to lighten the skin, reduce dark spots caused by acne.

Lactic acid helps to lighten skin, reduce dark spots caused by acne

Improve signs of aging

Lactic acid is also an antioxidant, releasing enzymes that stimulate collagen production . Therefore, they are very effective in reversing signs of aging, firming the skin, and smoothing wrinkles . However, lactic acid does not improve deep wrinkles.

Lactic acid reverses signs of aging, tightens skin, fades wrinkles

How to use lactic acid to beautify the skin

First, you determine the right lactic acid for your skin type:

Products containing lactic acid cream will be very suitable for normal to dry skin.

Products containing lactic acid in gel or liquid form will work best for combination and oily skin .

For skin with more problems such as acne skin, uneven skin tone, aging skin, you should use lactic acid serum (essence). Serum formulations are often stronger because they combine lactic acid with other exfoliating acids.

Cosmetics containing lactic acid

The steps to use lactic acid in the skin care routine to achieve the best skin care effect are as follows:

Step 1: Remove makeup and wash your face with cleanser.

Step 2: Use toner or toner to rebalance the skin.

Step 3: Apply a product containing lactic acid.

Step 4: Wait for about 15-30 minutes, continue the cycle with the mask when skin care in the evening.

Step 5: Use moisturizing serums.

Step 6: Apply moisturizer to lock in moisture.

Step 7: Use sunscreen if skin care during the day.

Steps to use lactic acid in the skin care routine

Application of lactic acid in skin care

With great uses in skin care, lactic acid has many different applications:

Cleanser: Lactic acid cleanser is easy to use on the skin with a 2-in-1 function , both washing away dirt, sebum and removing dead cells . The concentration of lactic acid in the cleanser is also quite mild, so it is a good choice for sensitive skin.

Lactic acid face wash

Moisturizers, lotions, toners and serums: Most of these lactic acids are used at night to avoid sun damage. This type is suitable for long-term use of lactic acid to improve skin problems.

Moisturizers, lotions, toners and serums with lactic acid

Exfoliators and Masks: Lactic acid in these products is more concentrated to be able to remove dead skin. This type should not be used daily as a cleanser or cream, but only 1-3 times a week or as directed by a doctor.

Exfoliating scrubs and masks with lactic acid

Specialized lactic acid peeling products: Peeling products containing lactic acid with concentrations from 30 to 88% are usually only used exclusively in spas, medical spas, dermatology clinics, you should not use them. they are at home.

Specialized lactic acid peeling products

Skin Medicines: Lactic acid is also used to treat skin conditions such as folliculitis, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.

Lactic acid in pharmaceuticals to treat skin diseases

Possible side effects and precautions when using

Side effects of using lactic acid:

Increased sun sensitivity: Lactic acid exfoliates dead skin cells thereby making the skin more sensitive to the sun.

Skin Irritation: Lactic acid can cause a tingling sensation but should go away after about 1 hour. But if you have more serious problems like redness, rash, itching, swelling, then you need to see a doctor right away.

Using lactic acid can make your skin sensitive to the sun

Some notes when using lactic acid:

Before starting lactic acid

Consult your dermatologist carefully about the appropriate lactic acid regimen for your skin.

The nature of lactic acid is to renew dead skin cells, so you need to make sure your skin is healthy enough, not too dry and sensitive to start with lactic acid.

Consult your dermatologist carefully about the appropriate lactic acid regimen for your skin.

If you’re using retinol or tretinoin, your skin is already dry and sensitive, so adding lactic acid can irritate your skin. Take a break from retinol or tretinoin for at least 5 days before switching to lactic acid.

Vitamin C and niacinamide combined with lactic acid will neutralize the effects of these ingredients and irritate the skin. Therefore, do not use lactic acid at the same time with these two substances , but divide and use alternate morning / evening.

If you’re using spa or home scrubs, stop at least two weeks before switching to lactic acid.

Read the information and refer to the before and after pictures carefully to get the most accurate information about the use of lactic acid.

Learn more about cosmetics with lactic acid before using

After each treatment with lactic acid

Do not use too much, only need 2-3 drops to apply evenly all over the face.

It takes at least 2 – 10 days to 2 – 4 weeks for the skin to recover from the lactic acid treatment. During this time, it is necessary to protect the skin as much as possible from the sun, dust and sweat, and regularly use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect the skin.

Use only 2-3 drops of lactic acid at a time

Always give your skin time to rest periodically after a course of lactic acid treatment. A course of using lactic acid to reduce dark spots and prevent aging will include 4-6 treatments with a 3-4 week interval between each session.

If you want better-looking skin in preparation for an important event, apply a lactic acid exfoliant 10-14 days before the event.

Use SPF 30+ sunscreen when using lactic acid

Always start with a low concentration product

The higher the concentration of lactic acid, the stronger the effect on the skin . To be safest, start with the mildest lactic acid product. Regularly monitor skin manifestations carefully. If any reaction is detected, reduce dose again or discontinue use .

How should I choose a product containing lactic acid?

Today, over-the-counter lactic acid products are available in varying concentrations ranging from 5% to 30% . Each product is suitable for different skin conditions.

Lactic acid products with the lowest concentration from 5 to 10% are suitable for beginners to use every day. This concentration is enough to gently exfoliate the skin, brighten the skin, help the skin get used to lactic acid. Products you can refer to include The Inkey list lactic acid, The Ordinary lactic acid 5% and 10% .

The Inkey list lactic acid

High-concentration lactic acid products often use specialized peels . This product is only used 1-2 times a week . Always monitor the skin for irritation and if so, stop, switch to a product with a lower concentration. You can refer to the Obagi Nu-Derm Exfoderm Forte exfoliating product .

Obagi Nu-Derm Exfoderm Forte

Hope the sharing of Tnhelearning.edu.vn has helped you better understand lactic acid and how to choose the right product for you. Lactic acid is a “panacea” for the skin, but it needs careful monitoring while using it for best results, in addition to a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits such as apples and grapes, to help you stay healthy and beautiful every day. Please!

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