Lactic Acid
Quick answer
Lactic Acid is an AHA that needs a little extra thought during pregnancy. While low concentrations in rinse-off products are generally considered low-risk, we advise caution—Use with Caution for leave-on products and to avoid high-percentage treatments like peels. Always check your specific product in the SafeMom app!
INCI name
Lactic Acid
What is Lactic Acid?
Lactic acid in low concentrations, especially in rinse-off products, is generally considered low-risk, but high-percentage treatments should be avoided.
What is Lactic Acid?
Think of lactic acid as one of the gentler members of the Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) family. It’s a naturally occurring compound, even found in milk and produced by our own bodies! In skincare, lactic acid is a superstar for its ability to gently exfoliate the skin’s surface. It helps to slough away dead skin cells, revealing a brighter, smoother complexion underneath.
Unlike some of its AHA cousins, lactic acid is also a humectant, meaning it helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin. This dual action of exfoliation and hydration makes it a popular choice for those looking to improve skin texture, tone, and overall radiance without excessive dryness or irritation. It’s often found in cleansers, toners, serums, and even body lotions.
Why pregnant women ask about it
Pregnancy can bring a whole host of skin changes, from hormonal breakouts and increased oiliness to dullness and uneven skin tone, sometimes even new dark spots or melasma. Many pregnant women naturally reach for their trusted skincare products to address these concerns, and AHAs like lactic acid are often a key part of routines aimed at exfoliation and brightening. Since many ingredients need a second look during pregnancy, it’s totally natural to wonder if your favorite lactic acid serum or peel is still a good fit.
Because lactic acid is known for being a bit gentler than some other acids, and for its hydrating properties, it often feels like a ‘safer’ choice for sensitive or reactive skin, which many experience during pregnancy. However, the concentration and type of product (rinse-off vs. leave-on) can make a big difference in how an ingredient is absorbed by your body, leading to questions about its overall pregnancy safety.
What research and expert consensus say
For lactic acid, our verdict is caution — Use with Caution. Here’s why: Lactic acid is an AHA with a larger molecular size compared to some other acids, which generally means less penetration into the skin. When used in low concentrations, particularly in products that are rinsed off, it’s widely considered to be low-risk during pregnancy. Think of your everyday cleansers or mild toners.
However, the concern increases with higher concentrations and leave-on products, such as stronger serums, masks, or professional peels. While the overall systemic absorption of topically applied lactic acid is generally thought to be minimal, higher concentrations mean a greater potential for absorption. To err on the side of caution, especially when it comes to ingredients that are absorbed into the bloodstream, it’s best to avoid these more potent formulations during pregnancy. Always check the ingredient list and product claims for percentage if available, and remember that even if a product doesn’t state the percentage, the feeling of a strong ‘tingle’ or ‘burn’ can be a sign of a higher concentration.
Safer alternatives to use instead
If you’re looking for gentle exfoliation and brightening during pregnancy without the guesswork, there are some lovely alternatives! Enzymes found in fruit extracts, like papaya or pineapple, offer a very mild form of exfoliation without deep penetration. You could also explore gentle physical exfoliants, like konjac sponges or very fine-grain scrubs, used sparingly.
For hydration and mild brightening, ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide are generally considered safe and wonderful choices. They can help with skin texture and tone without the same absorption concerns as higher-percentage AHAs.
How SafeMom can help
Navigating skincare ingredients during pregnancy can feel like a maze, but SafeMom is here to light the way! Instead of guessing or spending hours researching, simply scan any specific product in the SafeMom app. We’ll give you a clear, easy-to-understand pregnancy-safety check for every ingredient, so you can make informed choices with confidence and peace of mind.
Can I use lactic acid in a face wash?
Generally, low concentrations of lactic acid in rinse-off products like face washes are considered low-risk. The contact time with your skin is brief, and absorption is minimal. However, always check the specific product in the SafeMom app to be sure!
What about lactic acid peels?
High-percentage treatments like lactic acid peels — whether at home or professionally administered — should be avoided during pregnancy. These deliver a much higher concentration of the acid to the skin, increasing the potential for systemic absorption.
Is lactic acid safe in body lotions?
Similar to facial products, low concentrations of lactic acid in body lotions are generally considered low-risk. However, if the lotion covers a large surface area or is a higher concentration, it’s best to use caution. Scan your specific body lotion in the SafeMom app.
How do I know the concentration of lactic acid in my product?
Product labels don’t always state the exact percentage of lactic acid. Look for clues like where it appears on the ingredient list (higher up means higher concentration) or if the product is marketed as a ‘peel’ or ‘exfoliating treatment.’ If you’re unsure, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and scan the product in the SafeMom app for guidance.
SafeMom content is informational only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before changing your routine during pregnancy. Scan any specific product in the SafeMom app for a complete pregnancy-safety check.
Related SafeMom Ingredient Guides
Trimester-specific note
The guidance for lactic acid generally remains consistent throughout all trimesters. The key is to be mindful of concentration and product type, regardless of what stage of pregnancy you're in.
When to talk to your OB
If you used a product containing Lactic Acid before learning you were pregnant, mention it at your next prenatal visit — but most topical cosmetic exposures are not a cause for panic. For prescription exposures or specific concerns, contact your OB or midwife directly.