Ammonium Lactate
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.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A hydrating, gently exfoliating ingredient. Safe; may sting on cracked skin.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
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.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ammonium Lactate safe during pregnancy?
Ammonium Lactate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Ammonium Lactate for?
Ammonium Lactate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Ammonium Lactate and what does it do in cosmetics?
A salt of lactic acid.
What's the INCI name for Ammonium Lactate?
The INCI name is Ammonium Lactate.
See Ammonium Lactate in a product composition right on the store page
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