The Importance of Lactic Acid in your skincare regime
The ‘Skin-vest-ment’ that you need to do should be on acids that hydrate your skin from within. Give your skin a little more love by adding Lactic acid to it.
It is a hydrating and moisturising hydroxy acid which is mainly derived from milk. Thus, it glides on the skin quite smoothly. It also falls under the category of AHA which is Alpha Hydroxy Acid.
Benefits of Lactic Acid Serum on your face
Lactic acid not only hydrates the skin but has other adding advantages as well.
- It brightens up your skin, smooths and evens it like butter, while also making it look firmer.
- It also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots.
- It works as a chemical peel and removes the epidermis, meaning the top layer of the skin which is affected by dirt and pollution.
However, lactic acid, if strong enough in formula, may treat the middle layer of skin as well (the dermis).
In literal terms, the skin essentially does not peel off. It works under the treated epidermis making the skin glow from within. One of the main benefits of lactic acid is that it is quite mild on the skin. Unlike other AHAs such as glycolic acid, it is gentle on the skin and is not too harsh.
The Uses
Lactic acid serum is mainly used to reduce fine lines and wrinkles by deeply exfoliating the top layer of the skin. Following are the additional uses of Lactic acid :
- It removes hyperpigmentation which can be caused due to sun tan, age spots and other factors that lead to uneven and polluted or dull looking skin.
- Lactic acid also improves skin texture by reducing visible pores and improving skin tone.
- Being a chemical peel, it exfoliates your skin and gives you a radiant complexion by hitting on the dead skin cells. It renews and replenishes the skin.
The entire family of AHA improves skin texture. However, lactic acid has an adding use. It retains the skin’s natural moisture and keeps it glowing throughout the day.
Side Effects
Every skin is different in its texture. Even though Lactic Acid Serum is mild and gentle on your skin, it can have possible side effects.
- It will make your skin more prone to the sun’s Ultraviolet (UV) rays which can cause sun tan and hyperpigmentation.
- It may thus increase age spots and scarring. So, you have to re-apply sunscreen after every 3-4 hours to prevent the skin from getting directly exposed to the sun.
- Being a chemical formula, it can cause irritation, rash, redness and itchiness.
However, all the side effects mentioned above are quite mild and go with time once your skin gets used to the product. But if the problem still persists, you should discontinue using the product and immediately see a doctor or a dermatologist.
How to Use a Lactic acid Serum
It is advised to do a skin patch test before applying the product directly on your whole face. It is safe and will have less chances of any side effects.
- Apply the 2-3 drops of serum before applying any oil, cream or moisturiser at night.
- Allow a few minutes for it to absorb into the skin and lock it with a moisturiser.
Highlights
- Lactic acid serum is preferably used in the evening.
- Never use lactic acid and retinol together. Both of them are quite strong if used on the same day. Thus, it is advised to use both of the formulas on alternative days.
- Be regular with the product, consistency is the key. The benefits of the product will start showing after a few applications.
- Having sensitive skin might not allow you to use any AHA on your skin even if it's Thus, it is important to consult your dermatologist if you have skin sensitivity or any skin issue before.