LACTIC ACID
Lactic acid acts, depending on the concentration used, as a natural moisturizing factor or as an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), which gently exfoliates the skin and provides moisture. Lactic acid also stimulates ceramide biosynthesis and improves the skin’s barrier function. By stimulating ceramide synthesis, the ceramide content in the skin is increased, which strengthens the skin barrier and improves the skin’s structural integrity.(1–4)
1) Barel, A.O., Paye, M., and Maibach, H.I. (Eds.). (2010). Handbook of Cosmetic Science and Technology (3rd ed.). CRC Press.
(2) Martinez, F., Balciunas, E., Salgado, J., González, J., Converti, A., and Oliveira, R. (2013). Lactic acid properties, applications, and production: A review. Trends in Food Science and Technology, 30, 70–83.
(3) Smith, W. (1996). Epidermal and dermal effects of topical lactic acid. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 35, 3(1), 388–391.
(4) Mijaljica, D., Townley, J. P., Hondros, A., Hewson, C., Harrison, I. P., & Spada, F. (2024). Considering Phytosphingosine-Based Ceramide Formulations for Atopic Skin Care. Dermato., 4(1), 5–22.
