For your skin
A gentler exfoliator that also hydrates as it works. Good entry point if you have sensitive skin and want to try acids.
Want the science? Keep reading ↓Mechanism of action
AHA that exfoliates the surface while drawing water into the stratum corneum as a humectant.
Why we tier this strong
5 cited papers across 3 countries. Multiple positive efficacy results plus regulatory backing. Our catalog highlights 5 cited papers as direct references, a curated sample from the broader body of published research that earns Lactic Acid its Strong tier (15+ studies including multiple RCTs or a large longitudinal cohort). See our methodology for how we evaluate evidence.
Layering matrix
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Cited research
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
Tang SC, Yang JH, Dual effects of alpha-hydroxy acids on the skin, Molecules 2018;23(4):863 — effect concentration-dependent
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
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
Rawlings AV et al., Effect of lactic acid isomers on keratinocyte ceramide synthesis, stratum corneum lipid levels and stratum corneum barrier function, Archives of Dermatological Research 1996;288(7):383-390 — foundational: L-lactic acid stimulated keratinocyte ceramide biosynthesis (48% increase) and superior barrier function vs D-isomer
Sources: 10 clinical journals and regulatory databases across the US, EU, Korea, Japan, and China. Every entry points to a specific document. See methodology for the full list and what each outcome label means.