Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid with both exfoliating and humectant properties. It is produced naturally in the body. Can also be found in dairy products.
It can help stimulate collagen and strengthen the skin, which equals fewer fine lines and wrinkles. The hydroxy acids exfoliate the top layer of skin, helping smooth and even complexion, keep pores unclogged, brighten skin and even fade dark marks and discoloration.
Once again we provide you with a potent 80% Lactic Acid, how do you get from this to a lower concentration of 10 or 20% ??? Dilutions, concentrations and percentages are commonly found in chemistry, however you need not be a chemist to work with them! Just remember to work safely!
The equation for safe formulation is:
C1V1 = C2V2,
C is the concentration (%)
V is the volume (ml, or in grams)
Example: We have 80% Lactic acid, how to attain a final peel of 20% Lactic acid?
Known C1 = the starting concentration: Lactic acid is 80%.
Known C2 = The final concentration, Lactic Acid 20%.
Unknown V1 = This is the value we require
Known V2 = Assume you are attaining 100g final
* If you want a different amount you can simply change it to whatever you want (V2).
Solving for V1 by rearranging the formula:
V1 = C2*V2/C1
Ensure to convert % amounts into decimal form for ease of calculation, eg. 10% = 0.1
Therefore
V1 = (0.2 x 100)/0.8
V1 = 16.0g
Hence you will dilute 16.0g of Lactic acid 80% with 84.0 (100g - 16.0g) of water (Purified) or other ingredients if you are making a hybrid peel (Only advisable to professionals). The above mix formula will yield a 20% Lactic peel.
The C1V1 = C2V2 equation can be used for any concentration that you want to convert into a different concentration
Benefits of Lactic Acid
- Brightens a dull complexion
- Humectant and skin firmer
- Exfoliates
- Improves skin tone and texture