By now, especially if you’ve been dealing with these topics for a while, you already have a good idea of what lactic acid is and how it benefits the skin. The focus of today’s blog post is on how often you should use lactic acid peels. Don’t let the name scare you, peels are a quick and effective way to get beautiful skin, but you’ll need to take some time to make sure you find the right formula and feel confident using it.
What is Lactic Acid?
Naturally found in acidified dairy products like milk, its derivatives are used to formulate lactic acid in skincare products.
Effectively fights signs of aging and smooths fine lines and wrinkles.
Removes dead skin cells, dirt, bacteria, debris, and other impurities that accumulate on the outer surface of the skin.
Targets areas of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and sun damage by preventing overproduction of melanin and making these areas more pigmented.
Boosts the production of collagen and elastin in the skin, ensuring that the skin is hydrated and plump.
Lactic acid acts as a humectant, or H. It draws moisture into the skin and locks in the protective skin barrier.
Known as the gentlest acid, it’s suitable for all skin types, even mildly sensitive skin.
Helps skin rejuvenate and reveal new skin cells for a brighter, more vibrant complexion.
How do chemical peels work?
Chemical peels use a peeling acid, such as B. Lactic acid, applied to freshly cleansed skin. A thin layer is applied to the surface of the skin to remove the top layer of the epidermis. Dead skin cells, excess sebum, dirt, and bacteria can accumulate in the surface layer and, if not removed, can lead to breakouts and spots, making the complexion appear dull. In some cases, chemical peels can penetrate deeper into the dermis of the skin to help open up pores and prevent blackheads or whiteheads from appearing.
The difference with using lactic acid is that it is a gentler alpha hydroxy acid and can be used by almost all skin types. Its benefits include the ability to fight hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and age spots, revealing a healthy, radiant layer of skin cells. You’ll also find that lactic acid has the unique property of being a humectant, or H. It attracts water and holds it in place. This not only keeps your skin soft and hydrated, but it also ensures that the lipid barrier is functioning properly and protects the skin from free radicals and other environmental influences.
If you want to learn more about lactic acid itself and its effects on the skin, read our dedicated blog post.
How often can I do a lactic acid peel?
Lactic acid peels are best done every few weeks. However, the acid content can affect whether you should use them more frequently. You’ll find that a 30% lactic acid concentrate is a good place to start when incorporating peels into your daily routine.
Before we go on, don’t be alarmed if the word “peel” sends chills down your spine, as this doesn’t mean the skin is literally peeling off your face. Instead, you’ll find that the acid works on the underlying layers, removing bacteria, dead skin cells, and other impurities from the skin. The “peel” will look more like a fresh layer of skin coming to the surface. Be aware that exfoliation can increase your risk of sun damage, so using sunscreen every day is an important step to protect your skin.
How often should lactic acid be used?
This largely depends on the formula and strength of the lactic acid used. Weaker concentrates are often found in cleansers and face washes, both of which rinse off the skin and are gentle enough to be used daily, some even twice a day. These formulas are preferred by those with dry, sensitive skin, as they rarely cause much irritation.
More potent formulas, like serums, may need to be slowly introduced into your routine, especially if you have sensitive skin. If the acid is highly concentrated, I would also recommend using it only at night to avoid the risk of further damage to the skin from sun exposure.
Many people find that combining this acid with other ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide is an easy and effective task with few side effects. For more potent active ingredients like retinol and salicylic acid, it’s best to alternate between each ingredient, as this allows enough time for the skin and pH levels to rebalance so that you’re ready for the next step in your routine.
If you’re unsure how your skin will react to certain ingredients, a 24-hour patch test can help you determine if you can apply them to your face without causing side effects.
Can lactic acid peels be used daily?
As I mentioned earlier, lactic acid is one of the gentlest acids for the skin. But that doesn’t mean it can’t cause irritation or dry out the skin. You may also find that overusing an exfoliating formula (especially one as potent as an exfoliant) can strip the skin of the right amount of water and oil from its protective barrier, causing the skin to become fragile and susceptible to further damage.
Therefore, it’s important to use the product according to the instructions on the packaging. If you have concerns about using certain acids, I recommend consulting with your doctor or dermatologist to make sure you are using the best acid for you and your needs.
