10 best lactic acids

Lactic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) commonly used in facial peels, treatment masks, and skincare products. It is derived from milk and belongs to a class of organic compounds known for their exfoliating and moisturizing properties. Here's what you should know about lactic acid in the context of skincare and beauty personal care:

  1. Exfoliation: Lactic acid is often used as an exfoliant in skincare products. It works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, helping to slough off the dull and dead skin cells. This process can leave the skin looking smoother and more radiant.

  2. Skin Brightening: Lactic acid is known for its ability to promote skin brightening. It can help reduce the appearance of dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone over time.

  3. Moisturization: Unlike some other acids, lactic acid has humectant properties, which means it helps the skin retain moisture. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or dehydrated skin.

  4. Gentle Exfoliation: Lactic acid is considered to be one of the milder AHAs, making it suitable for a wider range of skin types, including sensitive skin. It is generally less likely to cause irritation compared to stronger AHAs like glycolic acid.

  5. Anti-Aging: Regular use of lactic acid can stimulate collagen production, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, making it a popular ingredient in anti-aging skincare products.

  6. Acne Treatment: Lactic acid can also be effective in treating acne-prone skin. It helps to unclog pores, reduce the formation of blackheads and whiteheads, and improve overall skin texture.

  7. Application: Lactic acid can be found in various skincare products such as peels, masks, cleansers, serums, and moisturizers. When using products containing lactic acid, it's essential to follow the instructions provided and wear sunscreen during the day, as the skin may be more sensitive to UV radiation.

  8. Patch Testing: As with any new skincare product, it's a good idea to perform a patch test before applying lactic acid-containing products to your entire face. This helps ensure that your skin doesn't react negatively to the product.

  9. Consultation: If you're unsure about incorporating lactic acid into your skincare routine, it's best to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your skin type and concerns.

In summary, lactic acid is a versatile ingredient in the realm of skincare and beauty personal care. It offers benefits such as exfoliation, skin brightening, moisturization, and anti-aging properties, while being generally suitable for a wide range of skin types. However, as with any skincare product, it's important to use it correctly and consider individual skin needs.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best lactic acids on the market
  

Home Brew Ohio Lactic Acid 88% 5oz for Home Brew, White (6111)

Home Brewing Supplies

Based on 412 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Lactic Acid can be used in place of a sour mash. When using very pale malts it is easy to push your PH well above 5.2 - 5.4 PH range. Using Lactic Acid you can lower the PH without going through all of the trouble of making a sour mash for its Lactic Acid properties. Many will argue that the addition of high Lactic Acid malts can make a flabby beer lacking in mouth feel, but controlling the PH with Lactic Acid you can avoid this. Lactic Acid in light colored beer production is very common. There is no set amount to use, but a PH meter should be used and the Lactic Acid added till you reach your 5.2 ph range.

  • 5 ounce
  • Food grade lactic acid
  • Used in place of sour mash
  • White

User questions & answers

Question: do you refrigerate this
Answer: Thank you for your inquiry. Refridgeration is not required for lactic acid.
Question: So is this the same exact ingredients in most other lactic acid peels made for skin
Answer: I've used this for facial (and body) peels and I've also used the kind bottled specifically for facial peels. I found no difference, except for the price.
Question: What's the source of the lactic acid? Does it come from milk or from a vegan source
Answer: Lactic acid is made industrially, by fermenting corn or beet sugars. While it can be extracted from fermented dairy products, it would be a slow, and very expensive process.
Question: I see that 88% is the purest available lactic acid. My question is: what's the other 12% in this product
Answer: Water. You can't remove water from lactic acid any further, without starting to form a different chemical called lactic anhydride.

Wine And Beer Making Lactic Acid 88% 32oz

L.D. Carlson

Based on 79 reviews Check latest price

Product description

88 percent lactic acid solution. Lactic acid is a chemical compound that provides a pleasant tangy acidity found in many fermented foods and beverages such as wine, yogurt, sourdough bread and kombucha tea. It is used in the beer brewing process to reduce pH and increase acidity.

  • Liquid lactic acid solution for wine and other food and beverage applications
  • Provides a pleasant, tangy acidity found in fermented foods including wine, yogurt, sourdough and kombucha tea
  • Food-grade
  • 88 percent solution
  • Volume: 32oz

User questions & answers

Question: is this product food grade
Answer: Yes, this is food grade.
Question: Can you tell me which isomer(s) it contains
Answer: Thanks for asking. This is L (+) lactic acid.
Question: Your ad says an order over $35 has free shipping, but when I check out there are shipping charges, how come
Answer: Thanks for asking. We'd be happy to help you with that. Yes, this item does qualify for the current free shipping offer. First, just make sure that all the other items in your cart are sold from us and are also part of the free shipping offer. Please message us directly with your shipping destination and links to each of the items in your cart so we can help you further. Thanks!
Question: What are the other ingredients
Answer: Thanks for asking. This is a solution of just lactic acid and water.

Lactic Acid 88% - 32 oz.

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Lactic Acid 88% - 32 oz.This lactic acid is used to lower the pH of your sparge water. When making pH calculations, calculations must be based upon the initial pH of the water being used. Your recipe should have a reference for the proper pH level needed for your brew. Use a syringe to dose your brew accordingly.Check Out Our Full Supply of pH Testing Equipment and Accessories Here!

User questions & answers

Question: can this be used as skin peel
Answer: No!
Question: Can it be used in lotions and body creams
Answer: Thank you. This is food-grade and can be used in any application that food-grade lactic acid is required.

Belei by Amazon: Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum, Fragrance Free, Paraben Free, 2 Fluid Ounces (60 mL)

Amazon.com Services, Inc.

Based on 320 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This multi-tasker tackles a multitude of skin needs in a single gel-like serum. A blend of five specialized hyaluronic acids helps retain moisture all day or night, while reducing the appearance of fine lines.



To use, pump once onto fingertips and apply as a thin layer over the face and neck. Allow serum to absorb fully before applying moisturizer, sunscreen or makeup.



Upon first use, product may take 10-20 pumps to dispense due to the consistency of this serum.

  • Created for all skin types
  • Formulated without parabens, fragrance, sulfates, phthalates
  • Dermatologist tested. Formula not tested on animals
  • This multi-tasker evens out complexion by reducing the prominence of wrinkle depth through hydration and its unique gel-like texture.
  • Long-lasting blend of five specialized hyaluronic acids to help retain moisture while reducing the appearance of fine lines
  • Apply a thin layer to face and neck daily after cleansing. Allow product to fully absorb before applying moisturizer or sunscreen, or using under makeup
  • For first use, product may take 10-20 pumps to dispense

User questions & answers

Question: Delivery to Canada
Answer: How would know this .... Amazon you andwer
Question: what should I expect when I first start using this product
Answer: When I started it, it started to lightly peel my nose (where I truly needed it). After that I noticed my pores were much smaller and my texture was improved. (both on my nose and on my face). My makeup now goes on smoother and a lot of my redness went away! I LOVE this product!
Question: What is the percentage of hylauronic acid
Answer: It does not say on the packaging. It is the next to last ingredient. To me, Oil of Olay Regenerist serum seems to do more...
Question: Does this product bead up with all the silicone in the ingredients
Answer: Absolutely....I returned this product.

Lactic Acid- 5 oz

Midwest Homebrewing and Winemaking Supplies

Based on 54 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Lactic acid- 5 oz.

  • Lactic acid- 5 oz
  • Used in making stouts
  • Used in making beer at home

User questions & answers

Question: Can you use this for skin lightening
Answer: Yes you can but please be careful. If you apply this directly to skin, you will burn yourself. Be sure to dilute this in a lotion to the desired strength, and mix in small batches if you are not adding preservatives so it won't spoil. Good luck!
Question: What's the source of the lactic acid? Does it come from milk or from a vegan source
Answer: Sorry, I don't know. Perhaps checking with the manufacturer would give you that information.
Question: what is the strength or percentage of the lactic acid
Answer: The label says 88% so I had made the assumption that this was true. My best guess is the lactic acid is 88% and the balance is water. I do not know the pH or anything like that.
Question: Is this lactic acid in powder form or liquid form
Answer: This lactic acid came in liquid form to me.

LACTIC Acid 50% Skin Chemical Peel- Alpha Hydroxy (AHA) For Acne, Skin Brightening, Wrinkles, Dry Skin, Age Spots, Uneven Skin Tone, Melasma & More (from Skin Beauty Solutions) - 1oz/30ml

Skin Beauty Solutions

Based on 21 reviews Check latest price

Product description

How does a chemical peel work?



Chemical peels work by loosening and gently sloughing off the damaged, unattractive skin cells. Depending on the strength of the peel, you may feel a slight tingling or the mild sting of sunburn. Flaking may occur several days following the peel as the damaged skin is freed and new, unblemished skin cells rise to the surface. Lactic Peels can also work on the deeper layers of skin to accelerate the skin's natural production of collagen and elastin.



Lactic acid skin peel will gently exfoliate your complexion’s outer layer, removing dead skin cells and dirt build-up.



Natural, Non-Toxic Fruit Acid That Can Take Years Off Your Skin.



Lactic Acid has been beneficial in improving dry skin, treating age spots, decreasing facial lines, and rejuvenating the skin's surface. Dermatologists and estheticians have been utilizing lactic acid as an effective and proven tool in the fight against the aging process.

Here are more benefits that your skin will enjoy when using our skin peel:

✅ It can be used more frequently than other peels.

✅ Does not include any artificial colors, fragrance, fillers and more.

✅ We are so confident you will love your renewed skin once you start seeing the results that we are giving a 30-day money back guarantee in the rare case you face ANY issues with your purchase.

  • ✅ RENEWS & REFRESHES - Our highly effective skin peel will gently remove the outer layer of your skin, brushing away debris and reducing excess oil. It can also get deep into the pores to help unclog it by breaking down the cellular bonds of dead skin thus pushing unsightly blackheads out.
  • ✅ENJOY AGELESS BEAUTY: Forget about wrinkles, fine lines, spots and aging signs once and for all! This premium quality chemical peel is the ultimate defence against the aging process!
  • ✅ERASE BLEMISHES AND ACQUIRE A FLAWLESS COMPLEXION: Stop worrying about your dry, damaged skin that looks dull! This lactic acid chemical peel will perfectly treat your complexion. Sun spots, uneven skin tone, acne scars, blackheads, whiteheads and large pores are history for you!
  • ✅SETTLE FOR NOTHING LESS THAN THE BEST: This incredible skin exfoliator includes lactic acid, one of the hydroxy acids, also known as fruit acids that are used by dermatologists and aestheticians to naturally and safely soften the skin.
  • ✅A MUST HAVE FOR YOU: No matter what your age or skin type is, this skin peel comes in four different strengths for your skin tolerance.

User questions & answers

Question: what is the best peel for melasma
Answer: Hi, I do use the Olay Pro X Microdermabrasion Cleansing System with this product. I use it every other day, however, when using with the brush start with a small amount of crystals then add more if needed. I use a small plastic Ziploc container with cover to make a mixture of the crystals with my cleanser. I keep this container in the shower so it's always available to me and a plus....completely washes off in the shower. Be sure to rinse well especially around the eyes. Enjoy your skin!!!
Question: I use this, it’s a great product and I’m here to buy more. Can you tell me what shelf life is? I don’t see an exp date on my current bottle. Thanks
Answer: Our products are made in the USA and are not tested on animals. =)
Question: Do you leave on your face or rinse off
Answer: Wash your face first then use the facial scrub. Hope that helps

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + Ha 2% 30ml - A Mild Lactic Acid Superficial Peeling Formulation

Ordinary

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Lactic Acid is an alpha hydroxyl acid that exfoliates the skin. This 5% formulation offers very mild exfoliation and is supported with a purified Tasmanian pepperberry known to reduce signs of inflammation and sensitivity that is often associated with exfoliation. A stronger 10% formula is available here.

This formula contains a studied Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative to help reduce irritation associated with acid use. This derivative is of plant origin and varies in colour seasonally and this colour variation may be apparent in the formula from time to time.



Contraindications: Lactic Acid should not be used on sensitive, peeling or compromised skin. Please refer to additional sun protection note and other warnings in provided Directions.



Directions: Apply once per day, ideally in the PM. Can be diluted with other treatments to reduce strength until skin develops tolerance. Avoid contact with eyes. If irritation persists, discontinue use and consult a physician. (Sunburn Alert: This product contains an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that may increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun and particularly the possibility of sunburn. Use a sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterwards.)



Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Triethanolamine, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Arginine, Potassium Citrate, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Ethyl 2,2-Dimethylhydrocinnamal, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol.

  • A mild lactic acid superficial peeling formulation -- lactic acid is an alpha hydroxyl acid that exfoliates the skin.
  • This 5% formulation offers very mild exfoliation and is supported with a purified Tasmanian pepperberry known to reduce signs of inflammation and sensitivity that is often associated with exfoliation.
  • This treatment gently resurfaces the skin to promote a bright, even tone and a smooth, soft texture.

User questions & answers

Question: My first bottle was clear in color. the second bottle i ordered is peach/light rust colored. is this ok
Answer: Yes, the first bottle I ordered two years ago was clear, the most recent one 2-1-2020 has a pinkish/rust color. I assumed it was because I bought the 10% instead of the 5%.
Question: Can it be combine with a glycolic acid
Answer: Probably best to use skip other AHAs in the same routine as Lactic acid.
Question: Is this supposed to have an odor or feel tingly or anything? It feels like I’m just putting water on my face
Answer: Most people do not feel any tingling or other sensation when they apply, only very sensitive skin will notice this effect. There is little to no discernible smell with this product.
Question: I have a question...why would anyone pay $12 + for this product when they can get it for $6.80 at either their website or at Sephora
Answer: $12 with free shipping is the same as Sephora's price because they charge $5.99 for shipping. I've ordered from both and I ended up paying a similar amount.

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + Ha 30ml

The Ordinary

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Lactic Acid is an alpha hydroxyl acid that exfoliates the skin. This 10% formulation offers mild exfoliation and is supported with a purified Tasmanian pepperberry known to reduce signs of inflammation and sensitivity that is often associated with exfoliation. This formula contains a studied Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative to help reduce irritation associated with acid use. This derivative is of plant origin and varies in colour seasonally and this colour variation may be apparent in the formula from time to time. Contraindications: Lactic Acid should not be used on sensitive, peeling or compromised skin. Please refer to additional sun protection note and other warnings in provided Directions. This pH of this formula is approximately 3.8. Lactic Acid has a pKa of 3.8 and pKa is the most important aspect to consider in formulating with acids. pKa implies acid availability. When pKa is close to pH, there is an ideal balance between salt and acidity, maximizing effectiveness of the acid.

  • This product has NO safety seal
  • Mild lactic acid superficial peeling.

User questions & answers

Question: Should the color of the liquid be clear or slightly yellow
Answer: It mentions on the product’s packaging that it contains a studied Tasmanian Pepperberry (to help reduce irritation associated with the acid). Since it is of plant origin, there can be color variation depending on the season. Hope this helps :)
Question: Can this be used with the ordinary Granactive retenoid %2 emulsion? If so how do you use them together
Answer: I would not use them together at the same time. Research and articles I've read state they may cancel each other out, therefore a waste of product. The retinols are not as effective on acidic skin. If you want to use both products, I would do the lactic acid in the morning routine and the retenoid at night. If you want to use them both at night, then I would alternate, making sure to leave at least one night free of both, to give your skin a chance to do its thing. Hope this helps.
Question: Can anyone tell me how do i use this is it left on the face overnight or is it washed off after 15 mins or so
Answer: its left on the face you do not wash it off
Question: Will someone please take a pic of the ingredient's label and post it or just post the ingredients
Answer: Ingredients Aqua (Water), Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Propanediol, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Isoceteth-20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol.

Lactic Acid 80% Standard - 125g

Mystic Moments

Based on 39 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Lactic Acid 80% Standard. It is a liquid solution in water of about 80% purity.

5 - 20% Lactic Acid would be a good place to start, as this is milder while still having excellent skin peel affects.

Uses: Treating dry, rough & scaly skin. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Warnings: Dilute before use. As with all of the acids, it is important to let your skin acclimate to their use. For those whose skin is not used to the acids a slight stinging and redness may result. If this occurs, reduce usage. If irritation persists, discontinue use. This product contains an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that may increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun and particularly the possibility of sunburn. Use a sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterwards.

Lactic Acid is a strong Alpha-Hydroxy Acid and hence will have excellent exfoliant properties, although these are weaker than, but second only to, Glycolic Acid. AHA products should be a stand alone treatment product and not included in another product. While AHA can be included in other products there are certain incompatibilities that may arise plus AHAs (because of the pH required for best effectiveness) may not allow other products (such as cleansing masks) to work properly, and vice versa.

AHA products should have a pH of 3.5 to 4.5 for best effectiveness (Note at pH 7 AHAs are totally ineffective); while masks have a pH dependant on the function (cleansing masks with a pH of 7 to 8; moisturizing masks with a pH of 5 to 6 and some treatment masks with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5). Hence these may have incompatible pH.

If a product has some film forming agent or, in the case of masks, have materials which are not absorbed, these may reduce the absorption of AHAs. Hence reduce their effectiveness.

Shipped from the UK

  • Lactic Acid 80% Standard - 125g
  • It is a liquid solution in water of about 80% purity
  • 5 - 20% Lactic Acid would be a good place to start, as this is milder while still having excellent skin peel affects.
  • Uses: Treating dry, rough & scaly skin. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
  • Lactic Acid is a strong Alpha-Hydroxy Acid and hence will have excellent exfoliant properties, although these are weaker than, but second only to, Glycolic Acid.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this product vegan
Answer: My understanding is that lactic acid comes from milk so I would not think this is vegan but that is just my understanding of it.
Question: Does this come with dilution instructions from seller
Answer: One-way to do it would be to use some type of lotion because it can burn your skin if you're not careful I don't remember if it came with instructions I had to YouTube how it's supposed to be used
Question: Can this be applied directly without dilution? Also, can you please tell maximum how long can it be left as a facial peel
Answer: Hi, actually for my face I started by using the 50% gel 2 applications one week apart,then I start to add 1:1 amount of the 50% and the 80% and the maximum time I kept it on my face 15 minutes I started by 5 minutes and I extend it gradually every time I apply it, actually on your face don't be aggressive go slow and gentle as you tolerate increase the time gradually and the concentration also, you don't want to have chemical burns and hyper pigmentation on your face, on the other hand on my knees I started the same but now on my knee I am applying the 80% directly and keep it for 30 minutes ( also gradually increasing the time weekly), I hope it is helpful, and ready for any further questions,Regards.
Question: Hello. Would it be possible to know the full ingredient list? Thanks
Answer: The product comes plain without manufacturer's packaging (other than the packaging of shipment). It is pure 80% lactic acid, clear, transparent solution in a clear plastic 125 gm bottle. My guess is that the other 20% is pure water because the bottle itself offers no other details about this other than providing information regarding its use in 5 European languages of English, French, Spanish, German, and Italian. It is highly astringent (a peel) and therefore, there is need for this information about mixing with another lotion before use.
Question: What is the description in English? Is this a peel or a daily serum
Answer: Superficial peeling formulation - that is what the bottle says.

LACTIC Acid Peel 90% Skin Chemical Peel- At Home Peel-Alpha Hydroxy (AHA) For Acne Scars, Skin Brightening, Wrinkles, Dry Skin, Age Spots, Uneven Skin Tone, Melasma, Clogged Pores, Blackheads (1oz)

Skin Beauty Solutions

Based on 521 reviews Check latest price

Product description

How does a chemical peel work?



Chemical peels work by loosening and gently sloughing off the damaged, unattractive skin cells. Depending on the strength of the peel, you may feel a slight tingling or the mild sting of sunburn. Flaking may occur several days following the peel as the damaged skin is freed and new, unblemished skin cells rise to the surface. Lactic Peels can also work on the deeper layers of skin to accelerate the skin's natural production of collagen and elastin.



Lactic acid skin peel will gently exfoliate your complexion’s outer layer, removing dead skin cells and dirt build-up.



Natural, Non-Toxic Fruit Acid That Can Take Years Off Your Skin.



Lactic Acid has been beneficial in improving dry skin, treating age spots, decreasing facial lines, and rejuvenating the skin's surface. Dermatologists and estheticians have been utilizing lactic acid as an effective and proven tool in the fight against the aging process.

Here are more benefits that your skin will enjoy when using our skin peel:

✅ It can be used more frequently than other peels.

✅ Does not include any artificial colors, fragrance, fillers and more.

✅ We are so confident you will love your renewed skin once you start seeing the results that we are giving a 30-day money back guarantee in the rare case you face ANY issues with your purchase.

  • ✅ RENEWS & REFRESHES - Our highly effective skin peel will gently remove the outer layer of your skin, brushing away debris and reducing excess oil. It can also get deep into the pores to help unclog it by breaking down the cellular bonds of dead skin thus pushing unsightly blackheads out.
  • ✅ENJOY AGELESS BEAUTY: Forget about wrinkles, fine lines, spots and aging signs once and for all! This premium quality chemical peel is the ultimate defence against the aging process!
  • ✅ERASE BLEMISHES AND ACQUIRE A FLAWLESS COMPLEXION: Stop worrying about your dry, damaged skin that looks dull! This lactic acid chemical peel will perfectly treat your complexion. Sun spots, uneven skin tone, acne scars, blackheads, whiteheads and large pores are history for you!
  • ✅SETTLE FOR NOTHING LESS THAN THE BEST: This incredible skin exfoliator includes lactic acid, one of the hydroxy acids, also known as fruit acids that are used by dermatologists and aestheticians to naturally and safely soften the skin.
  • ✅A MUST HAVE FOR YOU: No matter what your age or skin type is, this skin peel comes in four different strengths for your skin tolerance.

User questions & answers

Question: What ingredients are in this product
Answer: a moisturizer helps with moisturizing the skin which helps the skin to heal faster after a peel
Question: can it be applied in the active sun? She's always active in new York
Answer: It dissolves the granules so they don't sit at the bottom of your pool. Every instruction on how to shock your pool I've seen says do not put in skimmer - fill bucket with water, add shock, stir, then pour around pool. I use 5 gallon pool bucket, fill 2/3 to 3/4 with water, add 1lb shock, stir slowly without splashing, distribute around pool - repeat twice since I have 30k pool. I do it at 10pm when my pool pump comes on (electricity rates are cheaper then in my area).
Question: does your face peel from this
Answer: We put the shock in at night and swim in the morning.
Question: What does everyone use as a moisturizer after the peel
Answer: Everything I have read states that it should keep for decades. I stuffed mine in a sealed wide mouth nalgene liter bottle, wrapped it in plastic and put it in storage for emergency water treatment. If the powder gets damp or wet, all bets are off as it will outgas chlorine, corrode some metals, and could cause a fire. Be careful, especially around kids. It can cause blindness and worse.

Latest Reviews

View all