Lactic Acid: effective % & pH 락틱애씨드
⏱ 1 min read
⚡ Quick answer: Lactic Acid: effective concentration 5–10% in leave-on formulas, optimal pH 3.5–4.0, evidence Strong. A well-evidenced AHA that hydrates as it exfoliates — a sensible first acid for dry skin.
How much Lactic Acid actually works? Here's the dosage, pH and evidence — the formulator-level read behind the % on a Korean label.
| Effective % | 5–10% in leave-on formulas |
|---|---|
| Optimal pH | 3.5–4.0 |
| Evidence | Strong |
| Onset | 4–8 weeks |
What the % on the label really means
A well-evidenced AHA that hydrates as it exfoliates — a sensible first acid for dry skin.
⚠️ Ceiling: Above 10% it is peel territory for the face — though 12% ammonium lactate lotions sell over the counter for rough skin on the body, which is a different job entirely.
Lactic Acid guide →How Lactic Acid works →
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⏭ Up next⚗️ Polyglutamic Acid (PGA): effective % & pH 폴리글루탐산
✍️ Written & reviewed by the KoreaPlus Editorial team — dermatologist-informed, cosmetic-science researched & source-cited. Last reviewed: 2026-08-23.
General educational information using cosmetic structure-function wording — not medical advice. Always patch-test new actives. © KoreaPlus.