Glossary: Functional and Active Substances

Lactic Acid

Gently exfoliates, hydrates, and strengthens the skin barrier while supporting the microbiome

Benefit
Exfoliant, Moisturizer, Highlighter
Type Active and Functional

What is it?

Lactic Acid is an AHA (Alpha-Hydroxy Acid) derived from milk fermentation. Thanks to its gentle exfoliating and hydrating action, it is ideal for sensitive skin, helping to improve skin hydration and skin softness.

What is it used for?

Lactic Acid helps gently exfoliate the skin by removing dead cells from the surface, thanks to its ability to dissolve the bonds that hold them together. stimulates cellular turnover, promoting the formation of new skin cells and improving skin brightness and texture.
In addition to its exfoliating action, Lactic Acid has antibacterial properties, which makes it particularly useful for acne-prone skin or skin subject to microbiome imbalances. The result is smoother, softer skin.


Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are water-soluble organic exfoliating acids, and they occur naturally in many foods and milk sugars. Among the various types of alpha-hydroxy acids, we find:
Glycolic acid: derived from sugarcane, it is known for its effectiveness in promoting cell turnover and improving skin texture.
Lactic acid: obtained from milk fermentation, it is gentle and hydrating, ideal for sensitive skin and increasing skin hydration.
Malic acid: extracted from apples, this acid helps exfoliate the skin and improve its glow.
Tartaric acid: derived from grapes, it helps exfoliate the skin while improving its evenness and glow.
Citric acid: found in citrus fruits, it is used to adjust the pH of cosmetics and has antioxidant properties.
Mandelic acid: derived from bitter almonds, it is known for its antibacterial properties and helps regulate sebum production.
Pyruvic acid: a powerful exfoliant that can significantly improve skin texture and reduce imperfections like scars and dark spots.
The factors that affect the safety and effectiveness of AHAs include concentration, pH, exposure time, and the amount of free acid present.
For this reason, they should be used with caution to avoid potential adverse reactions, such as swelling, burning, and itching. Our top recommendation is to avoid overusing overly high concentrations and prolonged exposure times.
AHAs are typically found in products like toners, serums, peels, and even cleansers: so be careful not to use too many skincare products that contain them. They can end up being irritating and intolerable for your skin.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ALPHA AND BETA HYDROXY ACIDS
AHAs are short-chain hydroxy acids that, acting on the outermost layer of the skin, stimulate cell turnover and improve skin elasticity. Thanks to their properties, AHAs are often used to treat dry skin, sun-damaged skin, or skin with dark spots.
BHAs, meanwhile, are long-chain hydroxy acids that, acting deeply, penetrate the pores and remove excess sebum and dead skin cells. Thanks to the benefits they provide, BHAs (mainly Salicylic Acid) are used to treat oily skin, acne-prone skin, or skin with enlarged pores.
If a cosmetic product is formulated with both of these types of acids, it will provide a deeper exfoliation full of benefits for the skin. Always remember to follow the instructions for proper application of the product!

Products with Lactic Acid

  • Exfoliant for Sensitive Skin

    Exfoliant for Sensitive Skin

    Renews, smooths, and soothes: the gentle exfoliant that sensitive skin has been waiting for.

    Function Polishing agent, Soothing, Moisturizer
    Ingredients Lactobionic Acid, Sensityl™, Lactic Acid (+)
    Use Also every day (depending on skin type and needs)