Description
Lactic acid exfoliates the skin and is an alpha hydroxy acid. This 5% formulation provides very mild exfoliation and is backed by a distilled Tasmanian pepperberry, which has been shown to minimize inflammation and sensitivity associated with exfoliation.
This formula includes a Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative that has been researched to help relieve discomfort caused by acid use. This plant-derived derivative changes color seasonally, and this color variation can be visible in the formula from time to time.
Lactic Acid should not be used on skin that is sensitive, peeling, or compromised. Please see the directions for more information on sun safety and other cautions.
This formula has a pH of approximately 3.8. The pKa of lactic acid is 3.8, and the pKa is the most important factor to remember when formulating with acids. Acid availability is indicated by the pKa value. When pKa is similar to pH, a perfect combination of salt and acidity exists, optimizing the acid’s efficacy while reducing irritation. In this case, higher pH numbers would increase salt, which would, counterintuitively, make the formula much more annoying than if it were more acidic.
- Note: While Lactic Acid may provide immediate visible results, we usually recommend indirect exfoliation over direct exfoliation, such as this formula, due to the risk of inflammation and sensitivity associated with acids. Please see NIOD’s Non-Acid Acid Precursor for more information.
Instructions - Apply once a day, preferably in the evening. To minimize strength, dilute with other treatments before skin develops tolerance. Avoid coming into contact with your eyes. The product’s contact with the skin should be restricted in both frequency and length.
If annoyance occurs, discontinue usage and seek medical advice. On unbroken skin, use only as guided. It is recommended that you test the product on a patch before using it. Keep out of children’s control. Sunburn Warning: This product contains an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), which may make your skin more sensitive to the sun, increasing the risk of sunburn. When using this product and for a week afterward, use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and reduce sun exposure.
Patch checks are a simple way to see whether you’re likely to have a negative reaction to a new product. Before adding every new product to your routine, it’s a good idea to do a patch test. Based on the type of product, we’ve outlined a general method for performing your own patch test below.
- A small amount of the substance should be applied to a clean region of the upper forearm.
- Keep the place as dry as possible.
- If the product specifies a time limit for use, rinse after the time has passed. Otherwise, wait 24 hours before rinsing.
- Do not use the product if you notice any redness, burning, scratching, blistering, or discomfort at any point during the test.
