Lactic Acid | The INKEY List

• Only use in your PM Skincare routine
• After cleansing and hydrating with Hyaluronic Acid, gently apply a pea-sized amount of Lactic Acid and pat into the face and neck
• Follow with preferred treatments and moisturizer.
• We advise using every other night to begin with.
• Apply SPF as the last step in your AM skincare routine.
• INKEY Tip:
  • Lactic Acid is the gentlest of all of the Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). If you're new to AHAs or have dryer or more sensitive skin, Lactic Acid is a good place to start.
  • As this product is exfoliating, avoid using at the same time as AHAs (AHA, Glycolic Acid, Apple Cider Vinegar or Mandelic Acid), BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acid or C-50 Blemish Treatment), PHA Toner, Vitamin C or Retinol. Use on alternate nights.

When adding new products to your skincare routine, we always recommend patch testing. Learn more here.

It is not recommended to use both Lactic Acid and Retinol at the same time, use on different nights if required. Don't mix with other AHAs (Glycolic Acid, Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Mandelic Acid or Apple Cider Vinegar) , BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acid or C-50 Blemish Treatment) or PHA Toner. Avoid mixing Vitamin C products at the same time (Use Vitamin C AM and AHA PM)

Store in a cool dry place out of sunlight. Avoid direct contact with eyes. External use only. Keep out of reach of children.

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• 10% Lactic acid for mild exfoliation.
• 1% Hyaluronic Acid for extra hydration.

CAN I USE LACTIC ACID EVERY DAY? Although Lactic Acid is the gentlest of all AHAs, it is an exfoliant and we advise against everyday exfoliation as this can cause irritation and skin sensitivity. Ideally you should exfoliate 1-3 times per week in your PM routine.

WHEN SHOULD I APPLY LACTIC ACID? We suggest using your Hyaluronic Acid first, it can help your following products work better acting as transport for them into the skin! Apply your Hyaluronic Acid and wait 30/60 seconds before gently patting your Lactic Acid into your skin. 

IS LACTIC ACID AN AHA? Yes it is. AHAs, encourage cell turnover to reveal a brighter, more even complexion. Use in the PM and protect your skin with SPF during the day.

HOW TO USE WITH OTHER PRODUCTS: It is not recommended to use both Lactic Acid and Retinol at the same time, use on different nights if required. Don't mix with other AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Glycolic Acid, Mandelic Acid or Apple Cider Vinegar), BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acid or C-50 Blemish Treatment) or PHA Toner as this can cause irritation and sensitise the skin. Avoid mixing with Vitamin C products at the same time (Use Vitamin C in the AM and Glycolic Acid in the PM) What products should I not layer together? >

CAN I LAYER NIACINAMIDE AND LACTIC ACID? We would usually suggest alternating between these two, as they counteract each other due to their different pH levels. However, if you wish, allow Lactic Acid 15-30 minutes to do its work, and then follow with your Niacinamide.  

I HAVE SENSITIVE SKIN, CAN I USE IT? Lactic Acid is the gentlest of all of the Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). If you're new to AHAs or have dryer or more sensitive skin, Lactic Acid is a good place to start. We advise starting with every other night to begin with.

I HAVE DRY SKIN, CAN I USE IT? Yes! Lactic Acid is a gentle exfoliant and works to target concerns with less irritation. The treatment also has 1% Hyaluronic Acid to help with hydration whilst soothing the skin

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PHA AND LACTIC ACID? Both are great for dry skin types, as they both bind well with moisture in the skin. PHA’s have larger molecules than AHA’s (Lactic Acid) which means that they penetrate more slowly into the skin and thus do not exfoliate as strongly. Therefore, opt for Lactic Acid if your skin is not on the more sensitive side.

WHY DO I NEED TO WEAR SUNSCREEN WHEN USING AHA'S? Due to the exfoliating properties of AHA, and the fact it increases skin renewal, means the top layer of skin is newer and potentially more sensitive to sunlight. So we always recommend using in the PM and wearing a broad spectrum sunscreen during the day.

WHERE IS YOUR LACTIC ACID IS DERIVED FROM? Our Lactic Acid is a natural Alpha Hydroxy Acid which is derived from maize.

WHAT'S THE % OF LACTIC ACID? Our Lactic Acid is 10% for mild exfoliation.  

WHAT IS THE PH LEVEL OF THIS PRODUCT? PH LEVEL: 3.5-4.0.

AHAS VS BHAS - WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) are chemical exfoliators. They work on the surface of the skin, encouraging cell turnover to reveal a brighter, more even complexion. Use in the PM and protect your skin with SPF during the day. Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) are also chemical exfoliators. They work deeper in the pores, helping to target blackheads and reduce the bacteria that can lead to breakouts. Use AM or PM and protect your skin with SPF during the day.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO SEE RESULTS? Products can take up to six weeks to show full results, due to the time it takes for your skin cells to turnover and the results of any products to reach the surface. Consistency is key, so apply regularly even if you’re not seeing the effects straight away. It can be very tempting to increase use of some products to try and see quicker results, don't overdo it though. More is not necessarily more, and overuse can cause irritation and sensitivity.

IS THIS PRODUCT VEGAN? Yes! This product contains no animal derivatives and is now certified by The Vegan Society.

IS THIS SAFE FOR THOSE WHO ARE PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING? We do not recommend this product if pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before use. Our PHA toner is a great alternative, this one also helps to brighten and reduce texture. Your guide to pregnancy safe skincare >

CAN I USE THIS WITH PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION? We would suggest you consult with your doctor to be sure.