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Essentially Natural

Essentially Natural Lactic Acid 80%

Essentially Natural Lactic Acid 80%

Regular price R 29.00
Regular price Sale price R 29.00
Liquid error (snippets/price line 157): divided by 0 Sold out

3 in stock

INCI: L-lactic acid

Essentially Natural Lactic Acid 80% is a liquid alpha hydroxy acid used in cosmetic formulation for gentle exfoliation and as a pH regulator. It is commonly added during cool down to adjust pH and to support smoother-feeling skin in suitable formulas. Lactic acid is water soluble and is often used in facial products and body lotions at low percentages. It should never be applied directly to skin at this strength.

Read more on how to work with it: Working with Lactic Acid

And also:  A Quick Guide To Humectants

Learn how to formulate:  The Beginner's Guide To Cosmetic Formulation

Also available in  Sample Sizes.

This product is certified: Vegan, Food Safe, and Beauty Without Cruelty.

Need detailed info? COAs and SDSs are available — just send us the product name and batch number, and we’ll gladly share them with you.
  • Ingredient Name: Lactic Acid
  • Strength: 80% (L-lactic acid)
  • Format: Liquid
  • Solubility: Water soluble
  • Recommended Usage Rate: 0.1 to 10% (cool down phase)
  • Features: Vegan friendly, GMO-free
  • Size Options: 50ml, 100ml, 200ml, 500ml, 1L or 5L
  • pH adjustment in creams, lotions, toners, and gels
  • Low-level exfoliating leave-on products
  • Body lotions and moisturisers aiming for smoother feel
  • Pairing in formulas with compatible humectants and vitamins

    This product is suitable for:

  • DIY formulators who can measure and adjust pH accurately
  • Makers creating gentle exfoliating lotions and toners
  • Formulators building pH-sensitive preservative and active systems
  • This product is not for:

  • Direct application to skin at full strength
  • Very sensitive skin routines that avoid exfoliating acids
  • Anyone wanting a finished exfoliating product rather than an ingredient
  • As a pH Regulator: Add gradually in cool down and test pH until desired range is reached.
  • As an Exfoliating Active: Use within 0.1 to 10% depending on product type and comfort, and confirm pH.
  • As a Formula Support Ingredient: Use to fine-tune pH for preservatives and actives where appropriate.
  • Processing Tip: Always test pH, small changes can shift pH quickly.

  • For external use only.
  • Do not apply directly to skin at this concentration.
  • Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
  • Patch test finished products and discontinue if irritation occurs.
  • Use sun protection when using exfoliating acid products, as skin can become more sun sensitive.
  • Keep well sealed and store away from children, animals, moisture, sunlight, and heat.
  • If pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a healthcare professional before use.

Q: Is lactic acid only for exfoliation?
A: No, it is also used as a pH regulator in many cosmetic formulas.

Q: When should I add lactic acid to a formula?
A: It is commonly added in the cool down phase so pH can be adjusted carefully.

Q: Does lactic acid dissolve in water?
A: Yes, it is water soluble and mixes into water phases easily.

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