6 Benefits of
Lactic Acid in Skincare

Lactic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from natural sources like milk, fruits and vegetables. It benefits the skin by gently exfoliating dead skin cells, improving hydration, supporting collagen production and helping with concerns such as hyperpigmentation and acne.

Lactic Acid is generally suitable for most skin types, including normal, dry and combination skin. However, if your skin is sensitive or reactive, you should be cautious with higher concentrations and do a patch test before using it regularly.

Lactic Acid exfoliates the skin by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed more easily. Its exfoliating benefits include smoother skin texture, a more refined complexion and a more even skin tone.

Yes, Lactic Acid may help with hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. By promoting exfoliation, it can help fade dark spots and support a brighter, more uniform complexion, and it may also play a role in influencing melanin production.

Lactic Acid can benefit acne‑prone skin by helping to unclog pores and reducing how often breakouts occur.

Higher concentrations of Lactic Acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s usually best to use them at night and always follow up with sunscreen during the day to protect your skin.

Lactic Acid can help stimulate collagen production, which is important for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. This makes it a useful option for addressing early signs of ageing.

Some people may experience mild tingling, redness or irritation when using higher concentrations of Lactic Acid, especially if they have sensitive skin. Doing a patch test first and starting with lower concentrations can help minimise potential reactions. However, NIVEA products are dermatologically tested and are designed to be safe for your skin.

It’s generally best to avoid applying Lactic Acid directly to sensitive areas such as around the eyes. Use a gentle eye cream in those areas instead.

How often you use Lactic Acid depends on your skin’s tolerance and the product’s concentration. If you’re new to it, start with low‑dose products, for example once a week, and only move to more frequent use – several times a week or even daily – if the product instructions allow and your skin tolerates it well in the target area. The NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Scrub, which contains Lactic Acid, is suitable for use 2–3 times a week.

It’s always best not to mix different products and ingredients unless you know they work well together. In particular, avoid using high concentrations of Lactic Acid together with other skin‑resurfacing ingredients such as Retinol, as this may lead to over‑exfoliation.
Instead, choose formulas that already combine several active ingredients and whose skin tolerance and stability have been checked. If you’re using different care products in one routine, leave a few minutes between each application to reduce the chance of interactions.

As with any new skincare ingredient, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding it’s advisable to talk to your healthcare professional before using Lactic Acid for the first time.

Whether Lactic Acid is suitable for vegans depends on where it comes from. Traditional Lactic Acid is often derived from animal by‑products such as milk. Many modern skincare products, however, use Lactic Acid made from plant‑based materials, which makes it vegan‑friendly. Always check product labels or contact the manufacturer to make sure the Lactic Acid in your skincare product fits your vegan lifestyle. The NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Scrub is suitable for vegans.

Yes, like other skin‑resurfacing ingredients, Lactic Acid can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. It’s essential to use a broad‑spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF every day, especially when using Lactic Acid products, to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and help prevent sun reactions.