Biologically Active Substance
lactic acid Audio
lac·tic ac·id [ lak-tik a-sid ]
Effect:
Decreased Skin Keratinization; Emollient Activity
May Prevent:
Dermatitis
May Treat:
Dermatitis; Facial Dermatoses
More Information:
ChemID; DrugBank; DailyMed; PDR
Definitions related to lactic acid:
  • A normal intermediate in the fermentation (oxidation, metabolism) of sugar. The concentrated form is used internally to prevent gastrointestinal fermentation. (From Stedman, 26th ed)
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
  • A substance made from sugars in milk, by the action of certain enzymes. It is used in skin care products to reduce wrinkles and soften the skin. It is also being studied in the treatment of hand-foot syndrome (a condition marked by pain, swelling, numbness, tingling, or redness of the hands or feet) in patients receiving chemotherapy. Lactic acid is also made in muscles in the body and is used in many chemical processes in the body. It is a type of alpha hydroxyl acid.
    NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
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