Lactic Acid
About
Lactic Acid belongs to the class of medication called ‘Alpha-hydroxy acid’ primarily used for brighter, more radiant skin complexation. Besides this, it is also used to treat skin problems like acne scars, melasma, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and photoaging (premature ageing of the skin caused by repeated exposure to UV radiation). Lactic Acid is derived from milk with an antibacterial, antioxidant, keratolytic (remove warts, calluses), comedolytic (inhibits the formation of blemishes), and anti-inflammatory activity.
Lactic Acid contains Lactic acid, which works by increases the turnover rate of epithelial cells (cells that line the surface of the skin), eventually helps in peeling the skin and moisturizing the skin. Lactic Acid acts as an acid exfoliant that softens and dissolves the keratin. Besides this, it also helps to slow down the shedding of skin, thereby allowing the skin to function longer before flaking off.
Use Lactic Acid as advised by your doctor. Lactic Acid is only for external (skin only) use. Avoid contact with eyes, eyelids, lips, mouth, and nose. If the medicine comes in contact with any of these areas, rinse with water immediately. Do not use Lactic Acid on sunburned, windburned, or irritated skin. Common side effects of Lactic Acid include dry skin, erythema (skin redness), burning sensation, itching, skin irritation, and skin rash.
Please tell your doctor if you are allergic to Lactic Acid. Let your physician know if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or a breastfeeding mother. Lactic Acid can make the skin more sensitive in the sunlight, hence always use sunscreen and protective clothing before you step outdoors. Care should be taken while applying Lactic Acid on sensitive areas, such as the neck. Please limit the use of products that contain large amounts of alcohol (astringents, shaving creams, or after-shave lotions), hair removal products, and products containing lime or spices while using Lactic Acid.
Uses of Lactic Acid
Medicinal Benefits
Lactic Acid protects the skin from dryness, lightens dark spots and blemishes and the skin even tone and soft. It is a moisturizing agent that forms an oily layer on the top of the skin, hence traps in the water. Thereby moisturizes the outermost layer of skin and makes it smoother and softer. Also, it breaks down a protein known as keratin (that forms part of skin structure) and removes dead skin cells and softens skin. Applying directly to the skin gets easily absorbed into the skin, provides excellent moisture to dry patchy skin areas. It acts as an anti-ageing tool by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It promotes collagen production, which helps firm the skin. It also plays a major role in lightening age spots. It can lighten hyperpigmentation and decrease age spots and acne scars.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Lactic Acid
- Erythema (skin redness)
- Burning sensation
- Irritation
- Application site tingling
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
If you are allergic to Lactic Acid or any other medicines, please tell your doctor. If you are pregnant or a nursing mother, it is advised to consult a doctor before using Lactic Acid. Avoid contact of Lactic Acid with normal skin, nose, mouth, eyes. In case Lactic Acid comes in contact with these areas accidentally, rinse with water thoroughly. Avoid smoking or going near naked flames as it can catch fire and burn quickly. Do not apply Lactic Acid on cuts, grazes and broken skin. Do not apply Lactic Acid in large amounts or use for a long time than recommended as it does not give quick or better results but increases the risk of side effects. Lactic Acid can make the skin more sensitive in the sunlight, hence always use sunscreen and protective clothing before you step outdoors. It is recommended to avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Please inform your doctor if you are using any other medications you are taking, including vitamins, herbal supplements before starting Lactic Acid.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interaction: No interactions found.
Drug-Food Interaction: No interactions found.
Drug-Disease Interaction: No interactions found.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionThe interaction of Lactic Acid with alcohol is unknown. Please consult a physician before consuming alcohol while using Lactic Acid.
Pregnancy
cautionPlease consult a physician if you are pregnant before using Lactic Acid. Lactic Acid is given to pregnant women if the doctor thinks benefits are greater than risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionThe excretion of Lactic Acid in human milk is unknown. Lactic Acid is given to breastfeeding mothers only if the physician thinks benefits are greater than risks.
Driving
not applicableLactic Acid usually does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Liver
consult your doctorLactic Acid is safe in liver patients. If you have any concerns regarding the use of Lactic Acid in patients with liver problems, please consult a physician.
Kidney
consult your doctorLactic Acid is safe in kidney patients. If you have any concerns regarding the use of Lactic Acid in patients with kidney problems, please consult a physician.
Children
cautionLactic Acid should be used with caution in children if recommended by a doctor.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat foods rich in quercetin (a flavonoid) such as apples, cherry, broccoli, spinach and blueberries.
- Consuming food rich in probiotics helps in developing the immune system against allergies.
- Limit intake of food that might trigger allergies such as dairy products, soy, eggs, and nuts.
- Avoid consumption of foods with excess sugar as it may flare-up inflammation.
- Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and fish in your diet.
- Reducing stress and maintaining a regular sleep pattern would be helpful.
- Avoiding getting in contact with harsh soaps, detergents and rough fabrics.
- Avoid long, hot, or frequent bathing or washing as it can worsen dry skin.
Special Advise
- Consult your dermatologist if you do not notice any improvement after 4-6 weeks of treatment with Lactic Acid.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Hyperpigmentation: It is a skin condition in which patches of skin become darker in colour than the normal surrounding skin. This darkening of skin occurs when an excess of melanin (hormone), the brown pigment that produces normal skin colour, forms deposits in the skin.
Dark spots: These occurs when some skin areas start producing more melanin(a natural pigment that gives colour to eyes, hair, and skin) which can range from light to dark brown.
Dry skin: It is a condition in which skin becomes dry and marked by itching, cracking and scaling especially in winters.
Sensitive skin: It refers to the skin that has a more strong reaction when coming in contact with dyes, fragrances and other products.
FAQs
Lactic Acid contains Lactic acid that works by breaking down a skin protein known as keratin and removes dead skin cells, thereby softening the skin.
You can leave Lactic Acid overnight on the skin if you are using cream/gel/lotion formulations. However, if any irritation occurs, please stop usage and consult your physician.
No, it is not advised to stop using Lactic Acid even after your symptoms are relieved. You should complete the full course of treatment. You might see improvement in your symptoms, but the disease might not be cured completely.
Lactic Acid can make your skin more sensitive to the harmful effects of sunlight. Hence it is advised to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing while using Lactic Acid. It is recommended to avoid tanning booths and sunlamps.
You are recommended to use Lactic Acid for as long as your doctor has recommended it. However, if the condition persists or worsens after 6 weeks of treatment with Lactic Acid, please consult a doctor.
