When it comes to skincare acids, these powerful ingredients can do it all. Whether it’s eliminating signs of aging, hyperpigmentation, or brightening a dull complexion, the powerful family of AHAs and BHAs can tackle it all at once. However, there are a number of acids that are slowly but surely making their way into our skincare routines: polyhydroxy acids, also known as PHAs. I’ve discussed these acids before in a dedicated blog post, but today I want to focus on one specific acid.
Stay tuned if you want to learn more about lactobionic acid and its benefits for your skin.
What is Lactobionic Acid?
Lactobionic acid is the newest skin-transforming ingredient. Also known as LA, it is naturally produced in the body as a result of the oxidation of lactose. As a member of the PHA family, it has gained recognition from dermatologists and beauty experts in recent years for its impressive antioxidant properties. This makes it a highly effective ingredient for skincare products, as it can significantly protect the skin from free radical damage caused by things like pollution, UV radiation, and other environmental aggressors. When the skin is exposed to these influences without the help of antioxidant-rich compounds, a host of skin issues can occur, from fine lines to congestion and uneven skin to hyperpigmentation.
What does lactobionic acid do for the skin?
Lactobionic acid has high antioxidant benefits, which keep the skin’s natural protective barrier fully functional and fight all free radicals. But that’s not the only benefit this clever PHA provides to the skin. It is an acid that removes the buildup of dead skin cells, debris, and other impurities that often cause the skin to look dull. By gently exfoliating, lactobionic acid can restore the skin’s balance and significantly improve overall skin tone and radiance. You’ll also find that due to its larger molecular size, LA is unable to penetrate deep into the skin and cause skin irritation.
Skincare Benefits of Lactobionic Acid
Lactobionic acid belongs to the PHA family and is one of the gentlest acids used in skincare.
Lactobionic acid is suitable for all skin types, but is particularly beneficial for dry and sensitive skin.
Lactobionic acid has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from free radical damage.
Lactobionic acid can help the skin stay moisturized.
Lactobionic acid gently removes the buildup of dead skin cells that can make the skin look dull and lackluster.
Lactobionic acid improves dark spots and hyperpigmentation, making them less noticeable.
Lactobionic acid has anti-aging benefits and reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
Like any chemical peel, lactobionic acid has been used in a variety of skin care products. This allows you to incorporate the ingredient into your daily care in a way that is most convenient and best suited to your lifestyle, budget, and daily skin care routine. While lactobionic acid is a very gentle facial acid, it is recommended that you perform a patch test and consult a dermatologist to ensure that it is the right ingredient for you.
What is the difference between lactobionic acid and other skin care acids?
The main difference between lactobionic acid and other skin care acids is that it is a PHA, which means that its molecular size (as mentioned earlier) is very large and cannot penetrate as actively as other acids, such as: B. glycolic acid or salicylic acid. LA exfoliates the skin and eliminates all skin issues and impurities without the side effects (irritation, redness, and dryness) that are often associated with stronger AHAs and BHAs. In fact, lactobionic acid works mainly on the outer layer of the skin, where it can help maintain the function of the protective barrier and provide the right amount of essential oils and water to fight environmental damage and other skin stressors due to its antioxidant, exfoliating, and moisturizing properties. .
Which skin types can benefit from using lactobionic acid?
Many skin types benefit from incorporating LA into their daily care. However, those with sensitive and very dry skin will particularly benefit, as this acid can allow them to achieve the overall glow they would get using chemical peels. They couldn’t do this in the past because other acids were too harsh on the face. You now know that lactobionic acid is one of the gentlest acids on the market. Therefore, it is safe enough for all skin types.
If you choose a serum enriched with lactobionic acid and are sure it is safe to use, you can first apply a thin layer of the serum on thoroughly cleansed skin. Face in your daily life. If you use it during the day, don’t forget to protect your skin with SPF 30 or higher, as the exfoliating properties of the acid may make your skin more sensitive to UV radiation.
How often can you use lactobionic acid in your daily skin care routine?
Generally, it’s best to use the acids once a day in your evening routine, building up to about 2 to 3 times per week while monitoring your skin for signs of irritation. Once your skin is happy and tolerance is established, you can increase the frequency of use.
Another factor to consider is the type of products you use that contain LA. For example, a therapeutic product such as a mask may be used once or twice a week. This is best if you find you have more problem skin and can combat breakouts with more frequent but gentle exfoliation. For dry skin, a serum used at night can enhance exfoliation and lock in moisture. While you catch up on your beauty sleep, they’ll work overtime to ensure you have a clear, hydrated complexion in the morning.
