Exfoliant

Lactic Acid

Often labeled as: AHA
๐Ÿค Log in to Bookmark

The gentle, hydrating exfoliator for a surface glow.

๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ
Overall Safety Safe
๐Ÿ‘ถ
Pregnancy Safety Safe
๐Ÿ•ณ๏ธ
Comedogenic (0-5) 0 / 5
โšก
Irritancy (0-5) 2 / 5

๐Ÿ”ฌ How It Actually Works

An alpha-hydroxy acid derived from milk. Its larger molecule size means it stays on the surface of the skin, gently dissolving the glue that holds dead skin cells together without penetrating deep enough to cause severe irritation.

๐Ÿ’– Why your skin loves it

Fades superficial pigmentation, smooths rough texture, and uniquely acts as a humectant to draw moisture into the skin.

๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip

Great for beginners to chemical exfoliation. Apply on dry skin after cleansing.

โš–๏ธ Myth vs. Fact

The Myth

All acids dry out your skin.

The Science

Lactic acid is actually a part of your skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) and hydrates while it exfoliates.

๐Ÿงด Formulations featuring Lactic Acid

โ˜… 9.2
Vita-C Bright Exfoliating Water
Aiken
Vita-C Bright Exfoliating Water
Toner

A highly functional hybrid acid toner. It merges the gentle chemical exfoliation of Lactic Acid and Mandelic Acid with the pore-clearing power of Salicylic Acid. By buffering these acids with Betaine and Panthenol, it successfully refines skin texture without destroying the moisture barrier. The inclusion of Ascorbyl Glucoside and Niacinamide provides a rapid brightening effect for dull profiles.

โ˜… 9.4
Tea Tree Oil Pimple Gel
Aiken
Tea Tree Oil Pimple Gel
Treatment

An incredibly robust, multi-acid acne treatment gel. By combining Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, and Mandelic Acid with pure Tea Tree Oil, it forcefully digests the keratin plug blocking the pore while simultaneously neutralizing the bacterial infection. What sets it apart is the massive inclusion of Cica extracts (Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid) and Vitamin C to completely suppress the redness and prevent the pimple from leaving a dark brown scar smoothly.

โ˜… 8.9
Tea Tree Oil Pimple Cream
Aiken
Tea Tree Oil Pimple Cream
Treatment

A highly reliable botanical spot treatment. It utilizes a dense base of Lactic Acid and Phytosphingosine to provide a thick cushion that targets active breakouts. By incorporating pure Tea Tree Oil, it actively neutralizes the infection without requiring harsh synthetic chemicals.

โ˜… 9.0
Botanical AHA Toner
Dr Anne
Botanical AHA Toner
Toner

A highly functional and incredibly gentle exfoliating toner. By relying on the larger-molecule Mandelic Acid alongside hydrating Lactic Acid, it provides effective chemical exfoliation that loosens dead skin cells without the aggressive stinging associated with deep-penetrating Glycolic Acid. The inclusion of Chamomile and Calendula extracts actively soothes the skin, making it an excellent introductory acid for sensitive profiles.

โ˜… 9.2
Oatellia Exfoliating Gel Cleanser
YELLO Skincare
Oatellia Exfoliating Gel Cleanser
Cleanser

A highly intelligent BHA and AHA hybrid cleanser. Unlike harsh alkaline acne scrubs, this utilizes a premium amino-acid surfactant base (Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate) to thoroughly prevent barrier destruction. It packs a clinical 2 percent Salicylic Acid dose to dissolve sebum plugs deep within the follicle, expertly buffered by Lactic Acid, Oat Extract, and Green Tea to suppress the stinging and redness normally associated with daily chemical exfoliation wash loops.