Lactic Acid from The Ordinary was one of the first products I tried. I have used chemical peels for a few years to help with exfoliation and their 5% came with a great price point. Lately, my skin has been rougher so I jumped up to 10% in December. The Ordinary’s Lactic Acid 10% comes with Hyaluronic Acid to help absorb some moisture into the freshly exposed layer of skin. Plus Tasmanian Pepperberry which can reduce signs of inflammation and sensitivity.
It is milder on the skin than some of the lower strength peels I have tried, but if you are new to peels, do try the 5% first. You can use it daily while 1-2 times a week is plenty for me with the 10%. AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) is in many products, so you have likely used it before. While suitable for most skintypes, 10% is probably a bad idea for sensitive skin. In general, a daily exfoliator is better for your skin than peels unless you really need one too.
Deciem The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% with HA 2% ~$6.70 CDN for 30ml
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Propanediol, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Isoceteth-20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol.
- Lactic Acid: A high strength superficial peel/exfoliator
- Tasmanian Pepperberry: a toner that helps reduce redness during peeling
- Hyaluronic Acid: Helps retain moisture in the fresh layer of skin
How To Use The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10%
The packaging says you can use this daily. For me, that is too much and I use it twice a week. Simply swipe over the face with a cotton pad after cleansing. It has a lightweight texture that spreads easily. It takes about 4 drops for my entire face so the bottle lasts for ages. Regular use helps not only exfoliate but you get brighter skin as you are getting rid of the dull outer layers.
The addition of Hyaloronic Acid means the fresh layer of skin can absorb moisture better and looks and feels plumper, brighter and more toned too. Expect a little redness when using this, it is literally peeling off a layer of skin. Not like a deep glycolic peel would, but you will notice some skin removed. You should use it at night which also cuts down on the risk of sunburn after using it. Follow with a good serum and moisturizer to replenish the fresh layer of skin.