Increased Sun Sensitivity

Lactic acid use can increase sun sensitivity due to exfoliation, raising the risk of sunburn and sun damage. Protect skin from the sun when using products with lactic acid.

Topical application of lactic acid exfoliates the skin, removing the outer layer of dead cells, which reduces the skin's natural protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. This leads to increased sun sensitivity, resulting in a higher risk of sunburn, sun damage, premature aging, and an elevated risk of skin cancer. Symptoms include redness, pain, blistering, and peeling after sun exposure that would not normally cause such a reaction.