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What’s Better For You? Lactic Acid Or Glycolic Acid?

Introducing a new ingredient in your routine is nothing short of an exhilarating task. Especially when the ingredient in conversation is a skincare acid. It offers a multitude of benefits and without any exaggeration, is totally capable of transforming your skin’s tone and texture. But which one should you pick? Out of the many many options out there, these two are quite prominent: Lactic Acid and Glycolic Acid. Both offer a myriad of benefits, but when you’re standing in a skincare alley deciding which one to buy, which one should you choose? We’ll tell you.

 In This Article:

What Are Acids In Skincare?

What Is Lactic Acid?

What Are Acids In Skincare? 

Before delving into the specifics of Lactic and Glycolic Acid, it's essential to understand the role of acids in skincare. They are essentially chemical compounds that work by breaking down the bonds between skin cells, thus promoting exfoliation and revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath. Broadly categorised based on their molecular size and potency under AHAs, BHAs and PHAs, with each offering unique benefits for different skin types and concerns. Lactic and Glycolic Acid, both belong to the group of AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), which means that they exfoliate and shed the surface layer of your skin. 

What Is Lactic Acid? 

t is known for its gentle yet effective exfoliating properties, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. Lactic Acid works by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, promotLactic acid is naturally derived from milk and other natural sources. Iing cell turnover and revealing a brighter complexion.

5 Lactic Acid Benefits  

  1. Mild Exfoliation: Unlike other harsher acids, Lactic Acid exfoliates the skin very gently, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
  2. Offers Hydration: Lactic Acid also has humectant properties, which helps the skin retain moisture, leading to a plump and hydrated appearance.
  3. Brightens Skin: Regular use of Lactic Acid can help fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone, resulting in a more radiant and healthy  complexion.
  4. Reduces Signs of Ageing: By stimulating collagen production, Lactic Acid helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting a more youthful-looking skin.
  5. Improves Skin Texture: Lactic Acid helps smoothen out bumpy, rough and congested skin leaving it soft and supple to the touch.

What Is Glycolic Acid? 

Glycolic acid is naturally derived from sugarcane and is renowned for its potent exfoliating properties. It has a smaller molecular size compared to Lactic Acid, allowing it to penetrate deeper into the skin as compared to other types of AHAs.

5 Glycolic Acid Benefits 

  1. Deep Exfoliation: Glycolic acid penetrates deeply into the skin, effectively unclogging pores and removing dead skin cells, resulting in a smoother complexion. It might not be suitable for people with sensitive skin type due to its potency.
  2. Boosts Collagen Production: Just like Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid stimulates collagen synthesis, helping to reduce the signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles.
  3. Improves Skin Tone: Regular use of Glycolic Acid helps fade dark spots, acne scars, and other forms of hyperpigmentation, promoting a more even skin tone.
  4. Reduces Acne: It possesses antibacterial properties that help combat acne-causing bacteria, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin.
  5. Enhances Product Absorption: By exfoliating the outer layer of dead skin cells, Glycolic Acid enhances the penetration of other skincare products, improving their efficacy.

Which Acid Is Better Overall? 

While both these acids offer numerous benefits for the skin, it can be said that Lactic Acid emerges as the superior choice for several reasons. Firstly, its gentle exfoliating properties make it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and easily irritated skin. Unlike Glycolic Acid, which can sometimes cause irritation and redness, Lactic Acid provides effective exfoliation without compromising skin barrier function.

Additionally, Lactic Acid's ability to hydrate the skin sets it apart from Glycolic Acid. This makes Lactic Acid an excellent choice for those with dry or dehydrated skin as well, as it addresses both exfoliation and hydration simultaneously.

Furthermore, Lactic Acid's brightening and anti-ageing effects are comparable to Glycolic Acid, making it equally effective in improving skin tone and texture.

The best way to introduce Lactic Acid in your routine is with our 100% soap-free Simple Active Skin Barrier Care Smoothing Gel Cleanser. It contains 5% Lactic Acid along with 7% Ceramide Boosters, Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin that resurfaces skin, replenishes lost moisture and boosts skin’s natural ceramide production. Use it 1-2 times every week and follow it up with a moisturiser and sunscreen for optimum results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:1 Can I use Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid together?

A. No, using them together can potentially irritate your skin and lead to a damaged barrier. It is best to pick one which is more suited for your skin type and limit to using them twice a week.

Q:2 Can I use Lactic Acid everyday?

A. Just like all other exfoliating acids, Lactic Acid too should be used only twice a week. Using it everyday can cause skin irritation, redness and it can also damage your skin barrier.

Q:3 What not to mix with Lactic Acid?

A. Avoid using Lactic Acid and Vitamin C together. This combination can become too harsh for your skin.

Rhea Shah
Written by Rhea Shah on Jun 06, 2024
Rhea has banked on her passion for writing and beauty to be where she is today. When she isn't looking up fancy synonyms for simple words aka working, she is either traveling, making travel plans, or exploring a new restaurant.
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