Description

In cosmetics, it is used as the most common alternative to glycerin as a softener. It is primarily used as an anti-aging chemical to smooth contours, reduce sun damage, and improve skin texture, tone, and overall appearance.
However, serious precautions must be taken when using cosmetics with lactic acid, as they increase sensitivity to the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
In food, lactic acid is used in various products as an acidity regulator. Although it can be obtained from lactose (milk sugar), most commercially used lactic acid is derived from using bacteria such as Bacillus acidilacti, Lactobacillus delbrueckii, or Lactobacillus bulgaricus to ferment carbohydrate sources like cornstarch and potatoes. Thus, what is commonly called “sour milk” in vegetarian or vegan foods contains lactic acid as an ingredient.