What is lactic acid?

Lactic acid is an antiwrinkle and pigmentation-fighting ingredient found in over-the-counter (OTC) and professional-grade skin care products.

Derived from milk, lactic acid belongs to a class of anti-aging ingredients called alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). Other examples of AHAs include glycolic acid and citric acid.

Keep reading to learn how a lactic acid peel can improve your skin, OTC products to try, what to expect from a professional peel, and more.

How can a lactic acid peel benefit your skin?

A chemical peel works by using a chemical — in this case, lactic acid — on bare skin. It removes the top layer of skin (epidermis). Some stronger formulas may also target the middle layers of skin (dermis).

Despite the name, your skin doesn’t noticeably “peel” off. What is noticeable, though, are the effects underneath the removed epidermis: smoother and brighter skin.

Lactic acid is specifically used to treat hyperpigmentation, age spots, and other factors that contribute to a dull and uneven complexion. Other benefits of AHAs like lactic acid include improved skin tone and reduced pore appearance.

However, unlike AHAs such as glycolic acid, lactic acid is a bit milder. This makes a lactic acid peel a better choice for sensitive skin. Lactic acid may also be an option if you’ve tried another AHA in the past and found the product too strong.

Are side effects possible?

Despite the milder nature of lactic acid, it’s still considered a powerful AHA.

Its “peeling” effects will make your skin more vulnerable to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, so sunscreen is key. Make sure you apply sunscreen every morning and reapply as needed throughout the day.

Over time, unprotected sun exposure can lead to more age spots and scarring. It may even increase your risk for skin cancer.

Lactic acid peels can also cause irritation, rash, and itchiness. These effects are usually mild and improve as your skin gets used to the product. If your side effects persist after the first few applications, discontinue use and see your doctor.

20% beginners

40% regular users 

60% experienced users 

80% Body Peels Only 

LACTIC ACID MUST NOT BE USED BY :

• THOSE PREGNANT OR LACTATING

• THOSE UNDER 16 YEARS OF AGE

• THOSE WITH DIABETE MELLITUS (SUGAR DIABETES) OR CIRCULATORY PROBLEMS INCLUDING RAYNAUD'S DISEASE

• THOSE ALLERGIC TO ASPIRIN OR LACTIC ACID

• DARKER SKIN TENDS TO BE MORE SENSITIVE AND THUS PRONE TO SCARRING. IT IS RECOMMENDED TO START ON THE LOWEST CONCENTRATION OF 10% AND TO MOVE PROGRESSIVELY UP THE STRENGTH IF YOU SKIN DOES NOT ACT ADVERSELY. A PATCH TEST IS ALWAYS ADVISED BEFORE EVERY TREATMENT.

• LACTIC ACID AS BHA INCREASES SKIN PHOTOSENSITIVITY, MAKING THE SKIN MORE PRONE TO SUNBURN. AFTER USING THIS PRODUCT LIMIT SUN EXPOSURE AND WEAR FULL SUN SCREEN AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING.

• ALWAYS CONDUCT A PATCH TEST ON THE AREA TO BE TREATED, BEFORE APPLYING A FULL TREATMENT.

• STRICTLY FOR EXTERNAL USE AND MUST NOT BE INGESTED. DO NOT APPLY TO FINE AREAS OF SKIN INCLUDING LIPS AND UNDER EYE REGION.

You shouldn’t use a lactic acid peel if you have:

• eczema

• psoriasis

• rosacea

If you have naturally darker skin, talk to your doctor or dermatologist before use. Chemical peels may increase your risk of hyperpigmentation.