Tag: Chemical exfoliant

First isolated in 1780 by Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele from sour milk, lactic acid has evolved from a scientific curiosity to a widely used compound with roles in everything from your skincare routine to the food on your table. Today, its applications span numerous industries, leveraging its unique properties as an alpha-hydroxy acid and a product of natural fermentation.

While both are valuable skincare acids, linoleic acid is fundamentally different from AHAs and is not an alpha hydroxy acid. Linoleic acid is an essential omega-6 fatty acid known for its moisturizing and barrier-repairing properties, while AHAs are primarily chemical exfoliants. Understanding this distinction is key to building an effective skincare routine that addresses your specific skin concerns.

Lactic acid, a naturally occurring alpha-hydroxy acid, was first isolated from sour milk in 1780. Today, this multipurpose ingredient is widely used in both the skincare and food industries for its unique properties as an exfoliant, humectant, and preservative.