Our customer service representatives are available 24 hours a day, from Monday to Sunday.
| Catalog Number | CI-SC-0542 |
| Product Name | Lactic acid |
| CAS | 50-21-5 |
| Structure |  |
| Synonyms | α-Hydroxypropanoic acid lactic acid 2-hydroxypropanoic acid DL-Lactic acid 50-21-5 2-hydroxypropionic acid |
| Description | A concentrated solution of lactic acid is typically a mixture of lactic acid lactate and lactic acid. The concentration of this solution is approximately 90% (w/w). Lactic acid appears as a colorless to yellow odorless syrupy liquid. Corrosive to metals and tissue. Used to make cultured dairy products, as a food preservative, and to make chemicals. 2-hydroxypropanoic acid is a 2-hydroxy monocarboxylic acid that is propanoic acid in which one of the alpha-hydrogens is replaced by a hydroxy group. It has a role as a Daphnia magna metabolite and an algal metabolite. It is functionally related to a propionic acid. It is a conjugate acid of a lactate. A normal intermediate in the fermentation (oxidation, metabolism) of sugar. The concentrated form is used internally to prevent gastrointestinal fermentation. Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid, and has a mild saline taste. It is produced by fermentation of a sugar source, such as corn or beets, and then, by neutralizing the resulting lactic acid to create a compound having the formula NaC3H5O3. Lactic acid was one of active ingredients in Phexxi, a non-hormonal contraceptive agent. |
| IUPAC Name | 2-Hydroxypropanoic acid |
| Molecular Weight | 90.08 g/mol |
| Molecular Formula | C3H6O3 |
| Canonical SMILES | CC(C(=O)O)O |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C3H6O3/c1-2(4)3(5)6/h2,4H,1H3,(H,5,6) |
| InChI Key | JVTAAEKCZFNVCJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| Boiling Point | 122 °C /15mmHg (lit.) |
| Melting Point | 18 °C |
| Flash Point | >230 °F |
| Purity | 98% |
| Density | 1.209 g/mL |
| Solubility | Water-soluble |
| Appearance | Clear, water-white viscous liquid, characteristic odor |
| Application | Lactic acid appears as a colorless to yellow odorless syrupy liquid. Corrosive to metals and tissue. Used to make cultured dairy products, as a food preservative, and to make chemicals.Used as a solvent and acidulant in the production of foods, drugs, and dyes; Also used as a mordant in woolen goods printing, a soldering flux, a dehairing agent, and a catalyst for phenolic resins; Also used in leather tanning, oil well acidizing, and as a plant growth regulator. Applied in Petroleum Production and Refining, Soldering, Farming (Pesticides) ,Leather Tanning and Processing, Fur Dressing and Dyeing, Textiles (Printing, Dyeing, or Finishing) The fastest growing use for lactic acid is its use as a monomer for the production of polylactic acid or polylactide (PLA). Applications for PLA include containers for the food and beverage industries, films and rigid containers for packaging, and serviceware (cups, plates, utensils). The PLA polymer can also be spun into fibers and used in apparel, fiberfill (pillows, comforters), carpet, and nonwoven applications such as wipes. In dyeing baths, as mordant in printing woolen goods, solvent for water-insoluble dyes (alcohol-soluble induline, nigrosine, spirit-blue). Reducing chromates in mordanting wool. Manufacturing cheese, confectionery. Component of babies' milk formulas; acidulant in beverages; for acidulating worts in brewing. In preparation of sodium lactate injections. Ingredient of cosmetics. Component of spermatocidal jellies. For removing Clostridium butyricum in manufacturing of yeast; dehairing, plumping, and decalcifying hides. Solvent for cellulose formate. Flux for soft solder. Manufacturing lactates which are used in food products, in medicine, and as solvents. Plasticizer, catalyst in the casting of phenolaldehyde resins. |
| Storage | Store light-protected at a cool and dry place |
| Composition | Lactic acid, water |
| Features And Benefits | Very useful to rejuvenate the skin by encouraging the shedding of old surface skin cellsCan reduce the appearance of fine lines, irregular pigmentation, age spots & decreases enlarged poresGood choice for first-time peel users or for those with sensitive skinOften used in creams & lotions at a lower concentration for a more gentle acid-based peel. |
| GMO | GMONo data available |
| HS Code | 1518004000 |
| INCI | Lactic acid |
| Manufacture | Lactic acid is produced by bacterial fermentation (various Lactobacilli) of carbohydrates (sugar, starch). Pure sucrose, glucose from starch, raw sugar beet juice are frequently applied. |
| pH | 2 |
| Preservation | Preservative-free |
| Purity Grade | No purity grade applicable |
| Raw Material Source | Corn starch and various sugars |
| Refractive Index | n20/D 1.4262(lit.) |
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 57.5 Ų |
| Uses | Typical use level is between 1-20%. |
Lactic acid serves a multifaceted role in skincare, primarily as a moisturizing and exfoliating agent. As a core component of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor, it effectively hydrates the skin while promoting collagen renewal. Naturally found in various foods and milk, it is an FDA-approved ingredient in cosmetic and skincare products at concentrations up to 12%. This alpha-hydroxy acid gently exfoliates the skin, facilitating the turnover of surface cells to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, revealing a firmer and more radiant complexion. Additionally, it participates in the Krebs cycle, providing cellular energy. Lactic acid is less irritating compared to glycolic acid and supports skin renewal by inducing keratinocyte apoptosis in photoaged skin. By rapidly lowering the skin's pH, it activates enzymes that help to maintain clear pores and reduce pore visibility while aiding in the lightening of post-acne hyperpigmentation. While it may cause irritation to mucous membranes, it is highly effective in hydrating and smoothing dry, flaking skin. Available as a colorless, transparent liquid with a characteristic odor, it is typically used in concentrations ranging from 1% to 5% and is soluble in water, alcohol, and glycerol.
What are the benefits of using lactic acid in skincare products?
Lactic acid is an integral component of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) and aids in moisturizing and hydrating the skin while stimulating collagen renewal. As part of the alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), it provides gentle exfoliation that accelerates the renewal of surface cells. This process helps diminish fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, resulting in a firmer and more radiant complexion. Moreover, it reduces pore visibility and assists in lightening post-acne hyperpigmentation.
How is lactic acid recognized for safety in cosmetics?
The FDA has approved the use of lactic acid in cosmetics and skincare formulations at concentrations lower than 12% due to its natural occurrence in foods and milk. This ensures its safe application as an ingredient provided it's used within recommended levels.
How does lactic acid differ from other alpha-hydroxy acids like glycolic acid?
Lactic acid is less irritating compared to glycolic acid, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. While both acids promote exfoliation and skin renewal, lactic acid offers these benefits with a reduced likelihood of irritation, especially on the skin's surface.
Can lactic acid cause any side effects when used in skincare?
While lactic acid is generally safe when used at recommended concentrations, it may irritate mucous membranes and cause skin irritation in some individuals. Therefore, it is advisable to perform a patch test before incorporating it into a regular skincare routine and consult with a dermatologist if any irritation occurs.
In what forms can lactic acid be found, and what is its typical concentration in products?
Lactic acid is a colorless, transparent liquid with a characteristic odor that is soluble in water, alcohol, and glycerol. It is usually supplied as an 88% solution. In skincare products, it is typically used at concentrations between 1-5%, which ensures its efficacy while minimizing potential irritation.
How does lactic acid contribute to cellular processes in the body?
Lactic acid is a vital member of the Krebs cycle, which is the enzymatic process inside cells that provides energy in the form of ATP molecules. This underscores its importance not only in skincare but also in the body's overall metabolic functions.
If you have any questions, please contact us. You will get a satisfactory answer.
