Ingredient Spotlight: Lactic Acid

When our president, Ann Marie, formulates any one of our skincare products, she always makes sure to source some of the highest-quality ingredients available. Formulas that are good for you and on you, no matter your age, gender or skin tone. 

Among several alpha hydroxy acids (also known as AHAs) on the market, lactic acid is one of our favourites. It's the hero ingredient in our AHA Cream and possibly the first Miracle 10 product majority of our readers first experienced. Before we get into the amazing benefits of our AHA Cream, let's review the history of lactic acid in skincare. In the 1700s, a Swedish scientist isolated lactic acid from sour milk and well, the rest is history. Lactic acid can occur in any form of fermented food such as pickled vegetables, yogurts, beer and wine. In today's day and age, the majority of commercial-grade lactic acid is vegan and produced by fermenting vegetables like cornstarch and potatoes. 

Why it's one of our faves comes down to its versatility. Known as a hydrating AHA, lactic acid is one of the gentler chemical exfoliants available. People with sensitive/reactive skin, even rosacea, would benefit from a low percentage of lactic acid exfoliants. Those with a heartier tolerance would benefit from a more potent dose. Although it cannot penetrate as deeply into the skin layers like glycolic and salicylic acid, this makes it a gentler alternative and a great option for every skin type!

Here are a few benefits of adding lactic acid to your skincare routine:

Exfoliation is key to a healthy complexion. If you're someone who struggles with congestion in your skin (blackheads, uneven texture, flakiness), then allow us to introduce you to your life companion. Lactic acid gently exfoliates the skin by breaking the bonds between dead skin cells to allow for new cell turnover. Get ready for a mega-glow!

AHA Cream is our well-beloved product for dry and/or delicate skin but it really is suited for all skin types. Not only does it gently exfoliate, it seriously hydrates for an ultimate glow. If you have sensitive skin, our AHA Cream is mild but effective in smoothing texture while improving the look of fine lines, age spots, and damage. Did we mention it's infused with hyaluronic acid that deeply hydrates your skin overnight? Now you know 😉 We recommended applying AHA Cream as a part of your nighttime routine, alternating nights with your retinol products. After cleansing and toning, apply with your fingertips to the face (yes, you can apply it to your neck!). Always make sure to use SPF come morning, as with any chemical exfoliant or active.

Here are a few extra reasons why you need to get yourself a bottle (or two):

It increases skin cell turnover - Lactic acid breaks down the debris and dead skin cells and helps new skin cells turn over. You'll wake up with a literal glow to the skin!

Reduces blemishes and breakouts - Infused with vitamin E which is known to protect the skin from free-radical damage while soothing the look of the skin.

Now that you know everything there is to know about lactic acid (and why we're so obsessed with it), shop these other Miracle 10 products with lactic acid in its formulation: