A salt of lactic acid. It hydrates and gently exfoliates, softening rough, flaky skin, common in urea body products. At high levels it may slightly sting on broken skin.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
A hydrating, gently exfoliating ingredient. Safe; may sting on cracked skin.
Ammonium Lactate (INCI: Ammonium Lactate) is the ammonium salt of lactic acid. It hydrates and gently exfoliates, softens rough, flaking skin, and is common in body creams alongside urea. Here there is an active with real backing. Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid with a solid evidence base for hydrating and improving the texture of thickened skin; ammonium lactate is used for that in dryness and rough skin. It works, this is not just marketing. Applied topically it has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is sensible to keep usual cosmetic concentrations and apply sun protection, as with any acid exfoliant. Overall tolerance is good, with low irritation and allergy potential. Still, at high concentrations it can sting a little on cracked or freshly shaved skin.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Ammonium Lactate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Ammonium Lactate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
A salt of lactic acid.
The INCI name is Ammonium Lactate. It may also appear as: Аммония лактат.
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