Description
A naturally occurring alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and a component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor. Larger molecular size than glycolic acid translates to gentler penetration and a humectant component that softens stratum corneum while exfoliating.
Clear, colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid, typically supplied at 80 or 88 percent concentration in water. Fully water-soluble and miscible with ethanol and propylene glycol. Strong acid character requires careful pH adjustment in finished formulations.
We supply cosmetic-grade Lactic Acid from manufacturers in China holding ISO 22716, ISO 9001, Halal, Kosher and pharmaceutical-GMP certifications relevant to the product and production. Fermentation origin from corn or sugar substrates.
Common market grades include L(+)-Lactic Acid 80% and 88% solutions (the dominant cosmetic forms) and DL-lactic acid racemate at lower price points. The L-isomer is biologically identical to the skin's endogenous form and is the standard choice for skincare positioning.
Bulk and reduced-MOQ shipments. Batch-level COA covering HPLC purity, isomer ratio, color, heavy metals, and microbiology.
Introduction
Lactic acid was first isolated by Carl Wilhelm Scheele in 1780 from sour milk, hence the name. Cosmetic adoption as an exfoliant followed Eugene Van Scott and Ruey Yu's landmark AHA work in the 1970s and 1980s, which established the alpha hydroxy acid category that now anchors modern resurfacing skincare.
Industrial production is by microbial fermentation of glucose or sucrose using Lactobacillus or engineered strains, followed by membrane separation, distillation, and chiral purification to deliver high-purity L-isomer. Petrochemical synthesis of racemic DL-lactic acid is also commercial but dominantly serves industrial applications.
Regulatory status is that of a listed cosmetic ingredient in CosIng, the PCPC INCI dictionary, and China IECIC. EU SCCS guidance recommends AHA leave-on products carry sun protection advisories. No fixed concentration limit at the cosmetic level, with professional peel concentrations regulated separately under medical device frameworks in some jurisdictions.
Clinical evidence for lactic acid cosmetic use is substantial. Peer-reviewed studies show measurable improvement in skin texture, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and barrier hydration at 5 to 12 percent topical concentration over 8 to 12 weeks. The hydration component differentiates lactic from glycolic acid and is the basis for sensitive-skin positioning.
Strategically, lactic acid sits in the gentler-AHA premium slot of the global exfoliant category. Demand is driven by dermocosmetic and indie brand positioning of single-acid serums for users who do not tolerate glycolic acid.
Where it is used
- AHA exfoliating toners and serums at 2 to 10 percent
- Chemical peel formulations at 10 to 30 percent (professional and at-home)
- Gentle resurfacing creams for sensitive and mature skin
- Body lotions targeting keratosis pilaris and rough texture
- Brightening serums combining lactic acid with niacinamide
- Anti-aging night creams positioned around cell turnover
- Combination AHA blends with glycolic, mandelic, or citric acid
- Foot creams and hand treatments for thickened skin
- pH adjusters in cleanser and toner formulations
Technical data
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid |
| INCI Name | Lactic Acid |
| Assay (HPLC) | 80.0% to 90.0% (per grade) |
| L(+)-Isomer purity | ≥ 98.0% of total lactic acid |
| Color (APHA) | ≤ 30 |
| Sulfated ash | ≤ 0.1% |
| Chloride | ≤ 0.005% |
| Sulfate | ≤ 0.01% |
| Iron | ≤ 10 mg/kg |
| Heavy metals (as Pb) | ≤ 10 mg/kg |
| Arsenic | ≤ 1 mg/kg |
| Total plate count | ≤ 100 CFU/g |
| E. coli, Salmonella, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa | Negative |
| Source | Microbial fermentation of corn or sugar substrates |
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