You have probably heard of alpha hydroxy acid, and maybe even lactic acid. As you weed through various treatment methods that may be able to help you with your acne, you will undoubtedly want to consider this as an option. This colorless, odorless and organic acid compound is derived from mild sugars. Lactic acid is generally found as a component to aid in alpha-hydroxy products.
This acid helps exfoliate the skin and improve the surface of the skin as well as the overall appearance. It tends to be a preferred method for many because it can lead to obvious results while still being gentle enough to the skin. Even those with sensitive skin claim they were less affected while using products with lactic acid then others. You can find products such as cleansers, moisturizers and peels that contain this ingredient.
How It Works
Lactic acid works by attracting and maintaining moisture in the skin, which makes it a popular choice for patients who experience dry skin in addition to or because of their acne. Lactic acid also works by stimulating the creation of collagen in the deeper layers of skin below the surface. The greatest benefit lactic acid offers those who suffer with acne is the ability to free up the substance that acts like a glue compound within the skin.
This tends to cause the skin to hold on to dead skin cells too long. If the skin in unable to shed off that top layer of dead skin cells, this creates blocked pores which leads to acne. By exfoliating the skin, which is like a peel, the skin has a more difficult time producing whiteheads or blackheads. By removing the dead skin cells, the skin can breathe easier and is not clogged, so it is less likely there will be breakout.
Who Can Use Lactic Acid Products?
Generally, those who suffer from bouts of mild acne could potentially see results from using this product. More severe cases of acne tend to need something that is a bit harsher. Some patients have noticed results with their less than mild acne by using products that contained higher levels of lactic acid or alpha-hydroxy. Generally, though, this works better for people suffering with more mild cases.
Also, those who tend to have dry skin and acne may notice less of a harsh, drying effect from using this type of product. Although all acne treatments have the potential to cause some dryness, reports indicate fewer problems when using lactic acid. If you think you may be a candidate, the best thing you can do is speak to your doctor to find out if this may work for you.
Side Effects of Lactic Acid
There are fewer side effects reported from using lactic acid and alpha hydroxy than many other types of acne treatments. This also means you are not using something quite as drastic, which is why this is generally best for use with patients battling with mild cases of acne. As with any topical skin treatment, you may experience dryness, redness or other forms of skin irritations.
To prevent issues, you should not use products with this ingredient if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant or are nursing. If you are taking certain types of prescriptions or over the counter medications, you should consult your doctor first. Some of it depends on the type of product you use, of course, though patients find some of the best results from using peels that contain lactic acid.
Lactic Acid Peels
Generally, the main difference may be as simple as the content level within the peel, but there are several popular lactic acid peels available.
- Skin Laboratory makes one that is the Glyco-Lac 60 Level 2 Gel Peel. The solution is applied and left to sit for one minute before removing.
- For a stronger dose, try their Lactic Acid 70% Gel Peel. This claims to offer you results when used on a regular weekly basis.
- Another popular lactic acid product is the Philosophy Microdelivery Purifying Peel. This trusted name in skin care has developed a one minute purifying peel to help keep your skin in optimal condition.
In addition to these, there are plenty more to choose from, but these are some that you may want to consider.