What is lactic acid in skincare?
Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid originally derived from milk, now usually produced by fermentation. Its molecule is larger than glycolic acid’s, so it penetrates more slowly and irritates less – which makes it the AHA of choice for drier or more reactive skin.
It is also part of the skin’s own natural moisturising factor, so unlike most exfoliants it hydrates while it resurfaces. Research shows it increases ceramide production in the stratum corneum.
What skin concerns does lactic acid treat?
It smooths dullness, flakiness and rough texture, fades pigmentation and post-acne marks, and softens fine lines. Because it improves barrier lipids at the same time, it suits dry, mature and mildly sensitive skin better than stronger acids.
A controlled study pairing lactic acid with ceramides found measurable gains in both moisturisation and even shedding within two weeks.
What ingredients are best paired with lactic acid?
Ceramides are the standout partner, since lactic acid supports the skin making its own. Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane and panthenol round out the hydration side.
Niacinamide layers comfortably, and vitamin C works well on alternate mornings. Keep it out of the same step as retinoids or BHAs while your skin adjusts, start twice weekly, and use SPF daily. Take our Skin Quiz.
What is crepey skin?
Crepey skin is skin that has become thin, loose and finely wrinkled, with the papery texture of crepe paper. It differs from ordinary wrinkles in that it affects a broad area rather than forming distinct lines, and it appears most on the under-eyes, neck, décolletage, upper arms and inner thighs.
The hallmark is loss of elasticity: pinched skin takes longer to snap back, and the surface looks crinkled even at rest.
What causes crepey skin?
The main driver is degradation of the elastin network in the dermis. Cumulative ultraviolet exposure breaks down elastic fibres and replaces them with disorganised material – the process called solar elastosis – while collagen production falls at the same time.
Age, chronic dehydration, significant weight loss, smoking, and the natural drop in oestrogen around menopause all accelerate it. Body areas get less skincare attention than the face, which is why crepiness often shows there first.
What ingredients are best for crepey skin?
Retinoids remain the best-evidenced option for rebuilding collagen and thickening the dermis over months of use. Peptides support elastin and collagen signalling, and vitamin C protects existing fibres while aiding synthesis.
Layer those over rich hydration – hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, squalane and shea butter – which visibly improves the crinkled look even before structural change happens. Daily SPF on neck, chest and hands prevents further breakdown. Take our Skin Quiz.
