Check for Different Age (6 available)
Is this safe for adults to use Lactic Acid?
ℹ️General Overview
For adults: lactic acid is commonly used to gently exfoliate and adjust product pH. When used in products made for adult skin and at recommended strengths, it is usually safe. Some people may feel stinging, redness, or dryness, and it can make skin more sensitive to the sun.
✅What to Do
Use products as directed and choose formulas meant for adult skin. If you are new to lactic acid, start with a lower-strength product and use it a few times a week. Do a small patch test first. Avoid using on broken, raw, or very irritated skin. Always wear daily sunscreen while using lactic acid and limit sun exposure. If you are using other strong skin treatments (like prescription retinoids or other acids), check with a clinician before combining them.
⚠️Warnings
Watch for signs of irritation (burning, lasting redness, peeling) and stop use if these happen. Authorities such as Health Canada and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review note limits on concentration and pH and recommend careful formulation; a position paper also identifies lactic acid as a penetration enhancer. There is limited evidence of skin irritation reported by health literature. If you have very sensitive skin, allergies, or are on medications, consult a healthcare professional before use.
Are you holding the product?
Scan the full ingredient label and understand if it's safe for your child.
Safety Risk Labels
This ingredient has the following documented risks:
Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.
Alternative Names for Lactic Acid
This ingredient may also be listed as:
Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.
Products Containing Lactic Acid
This ingredient is found in the following products:
This list shows products that contain Lactic Acid or its alternative names.
Research Articles on Lactic Acid
Scientific research related to this ingredient:
These research articles provide scientific evidence about Lactic Acid safety and effects.
Common Questions About Lactic Acid
Is this safe for adults to use Lactic Acid?
Yes, Lactic Acid is generally considered safe for adults based on current research.
What are the banned risks of Lactic Acid for adults?
Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries.
What are the absorbed risks of Lactic Acid for adults?
Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream.
What are the sun burn risks of Lactic Acid for adults?
May increase skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and cause faster burning.
What products contain Lactic Acid?
Lactic Acid is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.
When can adults using products with Lactic Acid?
The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for adults. Use the age selector above to check other ages.
Want to scan another product?
Use our camera scanner to analyze more ingredient labels
Scan Another Product