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lactic acid

Generic Lactinol
Used for Itching, Dry Skin
Used for Itching, Dry Skin

Lactic acid is an ingredient that's in many prescription and over-the-counter topical skin products. It's an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), which works by getting rid of dead skin cell buildup. Because lactic acid products made by different manufacturers have different age cutoffs, concentrations, and directions, it's important to follow the instructions on the package. Generally, you can apply lactic acid to the affected skin(s) two times daily. Lactic acid is typically used to relieve dry, scaly skin. Common side effects of this medication are temporary burning and stinging.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Ally Tsai, PharmD
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on February 26, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageAlternativesLatest newsReferencesPricesMedicare
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What is Lactic acid?

What is Lactic acid used for?

How Lactic acid works

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). It exfoliates the skin by shedding dead skin cells. It's also thought to trigger the skin to make more collagen. This helps to soften and smooth out the appearance of skin.

Are you looking for information on ammonium lactate instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsLactinol-E (brand no longer available)
Drug ClassAlpha-hydroxy acid
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription or over-the-counter
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What are the side effects of Lactic acid?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Stinging
  • Burning
  • Peeling

Other Side Effects

  • Other skin irritations

Source: DailyMed

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Lactic acid

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Pros

Generally well-tolerated

Available in many different topical products

No significant interactions with other medications or supplements

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Cons

Raises risk for sunburn

Not well-studied in children

Higher concentration is more effective, but might cause more irritation

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Lactic acid

pharmacist

  • Different formulations of lactic acid products have different directions. Always read the package labels for instructions and age limits before using lactic acid products.

    • Lactic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, which means you might sunburn more easily. This can happen even during the winter and on overcast days. Make sure to avoid sun exposure to the areas where you applied the medication. Wear protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, and use a moisturizing sunscreen while you're using lactic acid.

      • To help with dry skin while using lactic acid, make sure to stay hydrated and avoid hot water and harsh skin products (e.g., soaps, hand sanitizers). Ask your dermatologist or pharmacist for recommendations on non-irritating, mild cleansers to use.

        • You might experience mild stinging, burning, or peeling after applying lactic acid to your skin. This is temporary and should go away after a while. Be careful applying this medication to your face since your skin is more sensitive there. Talk to your dermatologist if side effects don't go away.

          • Lactic acid should only be used on the outside of your body (i.e., intact skin). Don't use this medication on cuts, wounds, or burns. Avoid getting lactic acid near or in your eyes, lips, mouth, or nose.

            • Store lactic acid up and away and out of children's reach and sight. This prevents them from accidentally swallowing medicine that was left out. If you think that your child might’ve accidentally swallowed lactic acid, call your Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away even if you aren't completely sure.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Lactic acid

              What does lactic acid do for skin?
              Lactic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). It works by shedding dead skin cells, which causes your skin to exfoliate. By taking off the buildup of dead skin cells, lactic acid softens and smooths your skin. This can help improve your skin's firmness and smoothness, as well as reduce your fine lines and wrinkles.
              Does lactic acid cause soreness?
              Some people experience mild burning or stinging after applying lactic acid. This is more likely if you've sensitive skin. Avoid putting products with lactic acid on skin areas that are more delicate, such as on the face or near the eyes, unless you've checked with your dermatologist first. If your skin gets sore or irritated, especially if it doesn't improve over time, let your dermatologist know. They can talk with you to see if it's safe to continue lactic acid or whether you should consider a different product for your skin.
              Does lactic acid cause sunburn?
              Lactic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun and raise your risk for sunburn. If you're going out, it's best to stay out of direct sunlight. Make sure to apply sunscreen and wear clothing that covers your arms and legs to help prevent sunburns.
              Is lactic acid safe during pregnancy?
              Discuss with your obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) about the benefits and risks of using lactic acid during pregnancy. The safety of this ingredient hasn't been well-studied during pregnancy. But some studies showed that pregnant mothers were able to uselactic acid 2% with no reports of harm to their unborn babies. More research is still needed in this area. But if you're concerned about safety, talk to your OB/GYN or dermatologist about other skin recommendations.
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              What are the risks and warnings for Lactic acid?

              Lactic acid can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              Sunburn

              Lactic acid can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen and protective clothing when going out. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds.

              risk-warning

              Use only on your skin

              Lactic acid should only be used on your skin. Don’t put it in your eyes, nose, mouth, or ears. If you think that your child might’ve accidentally swallowed this medication, call your Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 immediately.

              dosage

              Lactic acid dosage forms

              Typical dosing for Lactic acid

              Lactic acid products made by different manufacturers might have different concentrations, directions, and age-cutoffs. To make sure you're using this medication correctly, follow the specific product instructions on the package or talk with your dermatologist about how to use it. In general:

              alternatives

              What are alternatives to Lactic acid?

              There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Lactic acid. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
              Lactic acid
              Used for:
              View Prices
              Ammonium lactate
              Used for:

              • Dry, itchy, or scaly skin

              $16.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
              Urea
              Used for:

              • Hyperkeratosis (abnormally thick or tough skin or nails)

              $45.71 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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              References

              Best studies we found

              Ding, D. M., et al. (2019). Association between lactic acid sting test scores, self-assessed sensitive skin scores and biophysical properties in Chinese females. International Journal of Cosmetic Science.

              Garg, T., et al. (2002). Long term topical application of lactic acid/lactate lotion as a preventive treatment for acne vulgaris. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology.

              Karwal, K., et al. (2023). Topical AHA in dermatology: Formulations, mechanisms of action, efficacy, and future perspectives. Cosmetics.

              View All References (6)

              Pedinol Pharmacal, Inc. (2009). Lactinol-E- lactic acid cream [package insert]. DailyMed.

              Smith, W. P. (1996). Epidermal and dermal effects of topical lactic acid. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

              Trivedi, M. K., et al. (2017). A review of the safety of cosmetic procedures during pregnancy and lactation. International Journal of Women’s Dermatology.

              U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2018). Guidance for industry: Labeling for cosmetics containing alpha hydroxy acids.

              U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Alpha hydroxy acids.

              Van Scott, E. J., et al. (1984). Hyperkeratinization, corneocyte cohesion, and alpha hydroxy acids. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

              GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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