The Magic of Lactic Acid
I regularly get bombarded with questions regarding products that will help heal and fade acne marks over time.
One of the magic ingredients that I discovered over the last year that has helped immensely with my acne scar healing is Lactic Acid.
WHAT IS LACTIC ACID?
Lactic acid is part of the group of Alpha Hydroxy acids, or AHAs.
AHAs are a class of chemical compounds that can be either naturally occurring or synthetic.
Essentially, Lactic acid works to slough away dead skin and eliminate discoloration without the irritation that tends to come along with some of the stronger exfoliating acids (more on that in another post to come).
What are AHAs in skincare products used for?
In over-the-counter products, AHAs are known for their chemical exfoliating benefits as an alternative to physical exfoliation. AHAs work by dissolving the bonds between skin cells to slough away the dead cells and promote cell turnover in the upper layers of your skin (the epidermis). This process gives way for plumper skin cells and a smoother glowier complexion.
As an ingredient incorporated in skincare products, Lactic Acid is unique in that it does all of the following:
It increases ceramides in the skin's protective barrier (molecules that help the skin retain moisture)
It works to prevent congestion (since, again, it is sloughing away dead skin cells that when left on skin over time, build up and turn into those painful cysts we so badly want to squeeze out)
And it improves pigmentation
Put it all together and you got yourself one hell of a helper in improve skin pigmentation and subsequently the prevention of new spots.
Since I started using Lactic Acid in my daily routine I find that my skin is all of the above: plumper, smoother, glowier, and my breakouts occur less.
Lactic Acid can be incorporated into your routine through your cleanser, toner, face mask, serum, or mixed with your moisturizer.
If you are looking to incorporate an AHA like Lactic Acid into your skincare regimen, check the ingredients of your next product purchase for AHAs like Lactic Acid of at least 4% to reap the benefits.
Dermatologists recommend introducing it gradually. Start off by using the product only once every three nights until your skin builds up a tolerance. As your skin builds up this tolerance you can use it more often.
I like using it in serum form since serums are applied and left on the skin and have smaller molecules than moisturizers to penetrate deeper into pores and work their magic.
Not sure how a serum should be worked into your routine? Check out my article on the order you should apply your skincare to find out more!
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