Lactic Acid (CAS 50-21-5) is a gentle AHA produced by fermentation and naturally present in milk. It uniquely combines exfoliation with humectant moisturizing — smoothing skin while attracting and binding moisture, making it ideal for sensitive and dry skin.
Physical & Chemical Properties
- INCI: Lactic Acid
- CAS number: 50-21-5
- Appearance: colorless to yellowish liquid (as supplied) or crystalline solid
- Solubility: fully water soluble, miscible with ethanol
- Ionic type: AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid), humectant
- Source: fermentation (milk sugar / corn-derived)
Key Benefits for Formulation
- Mild exfoliation: smoother skin with less irritation than glycolic acid
- Humectant moisturizing: attracts and binds water to the skin
- Improves skin barrier: texture and barrier function improve over time
- Sensitive & dry skin friendly: one of the most tolerable AHAs
- pH adjustment: effective acidulant in formula optimization
Main Applications
- Gentle exfoliating serums & lotions: daily AHA care
- Moisturizing & smoothing creams: dual-action hydration
- Body care: rough skin and keratosis pilaris
- pH-adjusting systems: formula optimization
- Anti-aging & skin-renewal products
Why Choose Our Bulk Lactic Acid?
- GMP manufacturing: full quality control from raw material to finished product
- Complete documentation: COA, SDS and heavy metal test reports available on request
- Flexible supply: MOQ and lead time on inquiry, from R&D samples to mass production
- Export experience: reliable shipping to EU, North America, Australia and Middle East
Recommended Usage
Typical use level 1%–10% depending on format and target skin type; lower concentrations for daily leave-on products, higher for professional peels. Adjust pH in final formula for stability. For external use only.
FAQ About Wholesale Lactic Acid
What is the CAS number of lactic acid?
CAS 50-21-5.
What is the INCI name?
Lactic Acid.
Is lactic acid water soluble?
Yes — it is fully water soluble and miscible with ethanol.
Is lactic acid gentler than glycolic acid?
Yes — lactic acid has a larger molecular size and humectant properties, producing milder exfoliation that suits sensitive and dry skin.
Does lactic acid moisturize?
Yes — it acts as a humectant, attracting and binding moisture while exfoliating.
What dosage is recommended?
Typically 1%–10% depending on format and skin tolerance; validate in finished product trials.
Is it suitable for keratosis pilaris?
Yes — lactic acid is commonly used in body care for rough skin and keratosis pilaris.
Start Your Lactic Acid Bulk Order
Contact our sales team today for spec sheets, samples and bulk pricing — our technical team is ready to support your formulation development.