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The science of lactic acid and its skin benefits

In the intricate world of skincare, certain ingredients stand out as transformative agents, and one such compound that takes centre stage is lactic acid. Beyond its association with fermented foods and beverages, lactic acid plays a pivotal role in nurturing and rejuvenating the skin.

Skin Benefits of Lactic Acid

Benefit #1: Natural Hydration Booster

  • Lactic acid distinguishes itself by being an exceptional hydrator. Unlike other alpha hydroxy acids, it actively works to keep your skin naturally moisturized, leaving it feeling supple and preventing dryness.

Benefit #2: Gentle Exfoliation and Cell Renewal

  • Acting as a gentle exfoliant, lactic acid dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, unveiling a fresher and more youthful complexion. This meticulous removal of dull, old cells also stimulates skin cell turnover, ensuring a continuous renewal process.

Benefit #3: Accelerated Skin Cell Turnover

  • Post-exfoliation, lactic acid continues its transformative work by accelerating skin cell turnover. This dual action of shedding old cells and promoting cell renewal results in smoother, softer skin and a brighter complexion.

Benefit #4: Reduction of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

  • At specific concentrations, lactic acid contributes to firmer and thicker skin, visibly improving the appearance of fine lines and deep wrinkles. By stimulating collagen renewal, it aids in maintaining skin elasticity.

Benefit #5: Hyperpigmentation Treatment

  • Aging and sun exposure can lead to increased melanin production, causing spots on the skin. Lactic acid steps in as a remedy, helping fade age spots and contributing to a more even skin tone.

Benefit #6: Relief for Various Skin Conditions

  • Lactic acid's antimicrobial properties make it a versatile solution for skin concerns. From acne and eczema to psoriasis, low concentrations of lactic acid have demonstrated efficacy in reducing inflammatory lesions and alleviating symptoms.

Benefit #7: Combatting Keratosis Pilaris

  • For those dealing with Keratosis Pilaris (KP), the buildup of skin cells around hair follicles can lead to bumpiness. Lactic acid proves to be a solution, dissolving these excess cells and promoting smoother skin.

Overall Benefit: Transformed Skin Appearance

  • Through its powerful and diverse benefits, regular use of lactic acid can leave your skin not just rejuvenated but visibly healthier. Revel in the radiant transformation that comes with embracing the skincare prowess of lactic acid.
Already using goats milk soap and has made vast improvement to some excema that suddenly appeared on face. Decided to then purchase some goats milk lotion which is really helping with any dry patches left. The service provided is excellent and an email I sent asking for advice was promptly answered. They also sent small free sample of soap with the lotion I ordered which I thought was rather nice. Will definitely recommend them to anyone struggling with skin problems.
Debbie Wigg

Understanding Lactic Acid

Lactic acid, classified as a type of Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), is a chemical compound present naturally in certain foods like raw milk. Additionally, it can be either synthetically produced in a laboratory setting or naturally generated by lactic acid bacteria.

These bacteria, recognized as beneficial microorganisms, engage in the digestion of simple carbohydrates, producing lactic acid along with other by-products such as carbon dioxide and ethanol. To illustrate this process in a simplified manner, envision a scenario similar to the way yeast consumes grapes to produce alcohol when making wine. Similarly, in the fermentation of foods like sauerkraut or yogurt, lactic acid bacteria consume carbohydrates, resulting in the production of lactic acid.

While this analogy might be vivid, it accurately depicts the fundamental process at play. Lactic acid plays a pivotal role in lowering the pH of fermented foods, acting as a natural preservative against spoilage. Additionally, it imparts the characteristic tanginess that can be either adored or disliked by individuals.

It's crucial to note that although lactic acid is naturally present in goat milk, it doesn't categorize as a dairy product. Surprisingly, lactic acid is entirely vegan.

Can Lactic acid be bad for my skin?

Lots of off-the-shelf skincare products boast high concentrations of chemical lactic acid. Individuals, eager to make the most of the benefits associated with lactic acid, often turn to these potent formulations, such as chemical peels containing lactic acid. However, the intensified levels of lactic acid in these products can provoke adverse reactions,

Adverse reactions to Lactic Acid include:

  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Burning
  • Itching, peeling
  • Heightened sensitivity to the sun.

In stark contrast, the naturally occurring lactic acid found in goat milk soap eliminates the risk of such strong reactions. Instead, goat milk soap offers a gentle and natural approach to unlocking the benefits of lactic acid over time. This makes it particularly suitable for individuals with extremely sensitive skin who require delicate care.

Benefits of naturally occuring lactic acid for the skin:

  • Skin that remains consistently moisturized, eliminating the discomfort of persistent dryness.
  • The attainment of a more youthful appearance.
  • Reduction in the visibility of lines, spots, and wrinkles.
  • Improved skin conditions, providing relief from issues like eczema, psoriasis, or acne.
Have used the shampoo bars on my son since he was young. It was the only thing I could use on his very sensitive skin, and have continued to use for over 5 years now. Easy to use website, quick postage and even sent us a free sample. Brilliant.
Sandra

Where is lactic acid found?

Lactic acid is a naturally occurring compound that can be found in various food sources. Here are some natural sources of lactic acid:

1. Fermented Dairy Products:

  • Yogurt: A popular and delicious source of lactic acid, yogurt is produced through the fermentation of milk by lactic acid bacteria.
  • Kefir: This fermented milk drink is rich in probiotics and lactic acid, contributing to its tangy flavor and potential health benefits.
  • Buttermilk: Another dairy product resulting from the fermentation of milk, buttermilk contains lactic acid and is often used in cooking and baking.

2. Fermented Vegetables:

  • Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage is a classic source of lactic acid and is known for its crisp texture and distinct tangy flavor.
  • Kimchi: A staple in Korean cuisine, kimchi is a spicy fermented vegetable dish, often made with cabbage, radishes, and lactic acid-producing bacteria.

3. Pickled Foods:

  • Pickles: The fermentation process involved in pickling cucumbers can lead to the production of lactic acid, contributing to the characteristic sour taste.

4. Sour Dough Bread:

  • Sourdough: The fermentation of the dough by lactic acid bacteria and yeast gives sourdough its unique flavor and can introduce lactic acid into the final product.

5. Fermented Soy Products:

  • Miso: A traditional Japanese seasoning, miso is produced by fermenting soybeans with salt and koji fungus, resulting in the formation of lactic acid.
  • Tempeh: Another soy-based product, tempeh, is created through the fermentation of soybeans, providing a source of lactic acid.

6. Fermented Beverages:

  • Kombucha: A popular fermented tea, kombucha is created through the fermentation of sweetened tea by a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), producing lactic acid.
  • Fermented Fruit Juices: Some fruit juices, when naturally fermented, can contain lactic acid. However, this is less common than in other fermented products.

7. Fermented Meat and Fish:

  • Fermented Sausages: Certain types of sausages undergo fermentation, introducing lactic acid into the mix.
  • Fish Sauce: Traditional fish sauce production involves fermentation, which can contribute to the presence of lactic acid.

8. Natural Sources in Skincare:

  • Goat Milk: Goat milk naturally contains lactic acid, making it a common ingredient in skincare products for its moisturizing and exfoliating properties.

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Littleworth
Faringdon
Oxfordshire
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