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Lactic acid: what % is safe to use?
I have read the FDA’s info. about lactic acid, but I cannot find any info. as to what % can be used in a leave-on lotion/cream WITHOUT causing sun sensitivity?
I have purchased:lactic acid 90% USPThe seller says it’s typically used at 1 - 5%.My question is:What is the highest % that can be used in lotions/creams WITHOUT causing sun sensitivity?I cannot find this info. on the internet. Perhaps I am not phrasing my question correctly(?).Thanks for any help you can provide. -
5 Replies
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Any percentage of Lactic acid can potentially cause photo sensitivity. It is only partially dose related. Of note is that Purac recommends it at 0.2-10% and many of the studies often cited were done with an 8% Lotion.
Hence the FDA guidance to use a Sunscreen warning.
http://www.fda.gov/Cosmetics/GuidanceRegulation/GuidanceDocuments/ucm090816.htm
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No wonder the FDA did NOT state what % of lactic acid is safe w/o using SPF in the formula!! Thanks Mark! (My spouse-unit said the same thing)
Now I have no idea what I can use the lactic acid for, by golly. Maybe foot cream!
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You don’t have to use SPF in the Formula! You have to put a warning on the label instructing them to also use a sunscreen if they will be exposed to sunlight. Different product, used to preven the side effect from the Lactic acid.
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I am not selling what I make, but I sure don’t want to be walking around with pink-face due to my use of lactic acid in my face lotion.
I was thinking of using just 1% lactic acid in my lotions & creams. I do not have SPF ingredients other than the zinc which makes my skin completely white.I have been using sodium lactate (not the same as lactic acid, I know) at 2% in lotions & creams for its humectant properties & to keep the surface of the lotions & creams from drying out too fast & cracking. -
Hi Margreat. In my opinion, you should abide by FDA’s regulation in your country. In the ASEAN region, any % of lactic acid can be used as long as the final pH of your product is above 3.00.
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