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The material selection platform
Cosmetics Ingredients
The material selection platform
Cosmetics Ingredients

LACTIC ACID

CAS Number 50-21-5
Chem/IUPAC Name: Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-
EINECS/ELINCS No: 200-018-0
COSING REF No: 34809
LACTIC ACID
Lactic acid is a miracle ingredient in personal care products that mainly functions as an exfoliator - removing the dead skin cells from the surface and leaving the smooth, soft surface underneath. Lactic acid is also a humectant that draws moisture to the upper layers of the skin and keeps it hydrated. This ingredient is quite beneficial in maintaining healthy looking and youthful skin. Further, lactic acid also helps moisturize and condition the hair shafts to leave them smoother and shinier. The chemical formula of lactic acid is C3H6O3.

What is LACTIC ACID used for?

Lactic acid is quite a popular ingredient in the cosmetic and personal care industry because of the numerous benefits that it provides. It can commonly be found in products like moisturizers, exfoliators, cleansers, and toners.
  • Skin care: It is a great humectant that draws moisture to the topmost layer of the skin and traps it there to keep the surface hydrated throughout the day. It is also a great exfoliator that removes dead skin cells to improve the texture and tone of the skin
  • Hair care: It has amazing benefits for hair as it deep conditions them and leaves them moisturized. The ingredient also helps reduce the split ends on the shafts thus making them healthier
  • Cosmetic products: Cosmetics with lactic acid prevent the skin from sun damage and also reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It has antibacterial properties that protect the surface of the skin from harmful environmental factors

Origin

Lactic acid can be made naturally by the fermentation of sugarcane, corn or beet. It can also be made synthetically by the hydration of acetaldehyde.

What does LACTIC ACID do in a formulation?

  • Antimicrobial
  • Humectant
  • Skin conditioning

Safety profile

Lactic acid is safe for skin and hair. It works well on all skin types however it is especially beneficial for dry and sensitive skin. The recommended usage concentration for lactic acid in cosmetics is between 1-5%. A patch test should be performed before full application. Further, plant based or synthetic sources of lactic acid are also vegan and halal.

Technical profile

Property Values
Boiling Point 203°C
Melting Point 16°C
pH 2.7-3.6
Solubility Soluble in water
90
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