Lactic Acid is a concentrated aqueous solution of lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) commonly used to improve the look of dullness, uneven tone, and rough texture through gentle surface exfoliation.
Compared to glycolic acid, lactic acid is generally perceived as milder, and it also contributes to skin comfort and hydration support because it is part of the skin’s natural moisturizing factors. This makes it a popular choice for formulas designed for smoother texture with less sting.
This 88% grade is typically used as a manufacturing concentrate. It allows formulators to dose accurately, then fine-tune the final pH for the intended performance and skin feel.
FEATURES
- Gentler AHA exfoliation – supports smoother-looking texture and a more even appearance.
- Hydration support – can contribute to improved skin feel versus more aggressive acids.
- Flexible dosing – 88% concentrate makes it easy to hit target active levels.
- pH adjuster – also useful for lowering pH in water-based systems.
BEST FOR
- Exfoliating toners
- Gentle resurfacing serums
- Body lotions for rough texture
- Brightening routines
- Rinse-off AHA cleansers
- pH adjustment in emulsions and gels
FORMULATION GUIDELINES
| INCI | Lactic Acid (and) Water |
|---|---|
| Type | Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) exfoliant concentrate / pH adjuster |
| Solubility | Water soluble |
| Active Content | 88% Lactic Acid (as supplied) |
| Use Rate | Depends on target active level and final pH. Common finished-product levels: 2–10% (leave-on) and 3–15% (rinse-off), subject to your formulation goals and compliance requirements. |
| Best Phase | Water phase (add with mixing, then pH adjust) |
| pH Compatibility | Works in acidic systems. Typical finished-product pH is often set around 3.5–4.5 for exfoliation-focused products, or higher when used mainly for pH adjustment. |
| Temperature Tolerance | Stable during processing. We recommend adding below 40–50°C when possible, especially if your formula contains other heat-sensitive components. |
| Pro Tip | Lactic acid can thin or haze some polymer gels at low pH. If your viscosity collapses, check polymer acid tolerance and electrolyte sensitivity. For smoother sensory, many formulators use lactic acid in buffered systems and avoid overly low pH unless a strong exfoliation profile is required. Handle as a strong acid concentrate: use suitable PPE, add slowly, and avoid incompatible metals during batching. |
| Appearance | Clear to pale yellow liquid |
| Stability Notes | Final pH impacts stability, preservative efficacy, and polymer compatibility. Validate pH drift, clarity, and viscosity over time. |
| Storage | Store tightly closed in a cool, dry place, away from heat and moisture. |
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