Ingredients Lab: Lactic Acid

Lactic acid is one of skincare’s most effective yet gentle actives. It helps to exfoliate, hydrate and smooth the skin, improving texture and radiance with every use. Understanding how lactic acid works and how to include it in your routine can make a noticeable difference to your skin’s comfort and appearance. 

What Is Lactic Acid? 

Lactic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk and fruit sugars. It works on the surface of the skin to dissolve the bonds that hold dead cells in place, helping them shed naturally. This reveals a brighter, smoother and more even complexion. 

Unlike some exfoliating acids, lactic acid also attracts moisture to the skin. This makes it one of the gentlest AHAs available, suitable for dry, rough or sensitive skin. It refines texture while helping to maintain hydration, making it a true multitasking ingredient. 

How Lactic Acid Works 

Healthy skin renews itself every few weeks, but dryness, ageing or environmental stress can slow that process down. Lactic acid supports natural cell turnover while enhancing the skin’s ability to stay hydrated. 

When applied topically, lactic acid: 

• Exfoliates to remove dull surface cells 
• Draws in water to boost hydration and elasticity 
• Supports the skin barrier to reduce dryness and flakiness 

Together, these actions make lactic acid on the skin one of the most effective ways to achieve softer, smoother and more radiant results. 

Benefits of Lactic Acid for Skin 

Lactic acid is known for improving the look and feel of the skin in several key ways: 

• Smooths texture by encouraging gentle surface renewal 
• Improves hydration by drawing and retaining moisture 
• Brightens tone by reducing dullness and uneven patches 
• Softens rough skin including bumps caused by Keratosis Pilaris 
• Enhances suppleness by supporting the skin’s natural barrier 

These lactic acid skin benefits make it ideal for those looking for visible results without irritation. 

Product support:AMELIORATE Transforming Body Lotion is powered by lactic acid and the LaH6 Hydration Complex to smooth, soften and hydrate rough or dry skin. 

How to Use Lactic Acid 

Lactic acid is gentle enough for regular use, but it’s important to build it into your routine gradually and pair it with hydration. 

1. Start slowly – Use once or twice a week to allow your skin to adjust. 
2. Apply to clean, dry skin – Follow with a moisturiser to maintain hydration. 
3. Use in the evening – Apply before bed to allow skin renewal overnight. 
4. Always wear SPF – Protect your skin from sun sensitivity during the day. 

Product support:AMELIORATE Smoothing Body Exfoliant combines lactic acid with gentle exfoliating particles to refine texture and prep skin for moisture. 

Why AMELIORATE Uses Lactic Acid 

At the heart of AMELIORATE’s formulations is the LaH6 Hydration Complex, which uses lactic acid alongside five other key ingredients: urea, sodium lactate, serine, allantoin and hydrolysed milk protein. 

Together, they exfoliate, hydrate and protect the skin barrier, leaving skin noticeably smoother, softer and more comfortable. This science-led blend is what makes our approach to skincare both effective and kind to the skin. 

Product support:AMELIORATE Resurfacing Facial Cleanser uses lactic acid to refine texture and boost radiance while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance. 

The AMELIORATE Difference 

AMELIORATE was created to transform the look and feel of dry, rough, and bumpy skin, with lactic acid at the heart of that mission. Each formula is designed to gently renew the skin’s surface while maintaining essential moisture, helping to restore softness and balance. 

By combining clinically proven results with expert dermatological care, our lactic acid-powered products visibly improve texture, tone, and hydration. With consistent use, skin feels smoother, looks brighter, and stays comfortably hydrated all day long.