Exfoliants
Lactic acid
It changes both acidity and skin-feel behavior, with the available free acid depending on pH and the formula's buffering system.
- INCI
- LACTIC ACID
- CAS
- 50-21-5
- Also known as
- 2-hydroxypropanoic acid · AHA
- Function
- Exfoliants
Ingredient answer
What is Lactic acid?
Lactic acid is a water-soluble alpha-hydroxy acid used for pH adjustment, exfoliation, and humectant-supporting skin-care concepts.
Formulation behavior
How it works inside a formula
Add from a controlled dilution, monitor heat and pH after equilibration, and validate claims, exposure, packaging, and market requirements.
Where it appears
Common product contexts
- rinse-off treatments
- toners and serums
- targeted masks
Practical caution
What to keep in view
Control pH, free-acid level, exposure, packaging, consumer directions, and market-specific restrictions.
Take the ingredient into a working formula.
Keep supplier details, percentages, compliance checks, and batch records inside your private Formuley workspace.