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La
Moderate evidence

Lactic Acid for Sun Damage (Photoaging)

A gentler exfoliator that also hydrates as it works. Good entry point if you have sensitive skin and want to try acids.

Why it works for Sun Damage (Photoaging)

An exfoliating acid (an AHA) that also draws in water. At 12 percent it measurably improves rough texture, patchy pigment, and dull tone from the sun. Its larger molecules sink in more slowly than glycolic acid, so it is gentler at the same strength, which suits sensitive or easily irritated skin. It makes skin more sun-sensitive, so wear sunscreen and use it at night.

How Lactic Acid works

AHA that exfoliates the surface while drawing water into the stratum corneum as a humectant.

Evidence

4 citations from our ingredient database. Full citation list on the Lactic Acid ingredient page.

journal2023
Fanning N et al., Treatment of mild-to-moderate facial cutaneous aging using a combination peel containing 6% trichloroacetic acid and 12% lactic acid, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 2023;22(11):3033-3041 — three monthly peels significantly improved clarity, pigmentation, fine lines, roughness in 32 subjects
review2018
Tang SC, Yang JH, Dual effects of alpha-hydroxy acids on the skin, Molecules 2018;23(4):863 — effect concentration-dependent
review2012
Babilas P et al., Cosmetic and dermatologic use of alpha hydroxy acids, JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft 2012 — supports AHAs including lactic acid for photoaging, pigmentation, and barrier effects
journal1996
Smith WP, Epidermal and dermal effects of topical lactic acid, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 1996;35(3 Pt 1):388-91 — 12% lactic acid increased epidermal/dermal firmness and thickness

Products with Lactic Acid in our catalog

These are the catalog products that list Lactic Acid as a tracked ingredient.

Tula

The Cult Classic Purifying Face Cleanser

$28 · Cleanser

Some By Mi

AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner

$23 · Toner

Peach Slices

Acne Exfoliating Toner

$13 · Toner

The Ordinary

AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

$10 · Treatment

Drunk Elephant

T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial

$80 · Treatment

Sunday Riley

Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment

$122 · Treatment

Full Lactic Acid guide →Sun Damage (Photoaging) overview →