Ingredient glossary
Lactic acid
INCI: Lactic Acid · Also: AHA
Worth paying for
Does Lactic acid clash with what you already use? Check it →Strong results with strong evidence behind them. This is one genuinely worth having in a formula.
What it does
- exfoliation
- hydration
strong evidenceSignificant evidence for AHA exfoliation, improving texture, tone and photoaging signs at appropriate pH and strength.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Tends to suit
- dry
- normal
- combo
Approach with care
- very sensitive
- compromised barrier
- Clogs poresLow
- Irritation riskModerate
- pH-dependentIts effect depends on the product's pH
Pregnancy: Check with your doctor before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Plays well with
- humectants
- ceramides
This, for every label you own
One ingredient is easy. A full label is where it gets confusing. The Ingredient Decoder reads any product and tells you the honest truth, ingredient by ingredient.
Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.