Polylactic Acid
A biodegradable plant polymer. It gives a soft matte feel and replaces synthetic microbeads. Well tolerated.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Polylactic acid (INCI: Polylactic Acid) is a biodegradable polymer made from fermented plant starch. In cosmetics it works as a filler and texture agent: it forms microspheres that give a soft matte finish, improve slip, and replace synthetic plastic microparticles in foundations and powders. This is a functional texture component, not a skincare active. It does not treat wrinkles or pigmentation; its value lies in how the product feels and looks on skin. In injectable form polylactic acid acts as a filler, but that procedure is medical and has nothing to do with topical cosmetic use. For topical use the systemic contribution is nil. It can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is excellent. The irritation and allergy potential is low, so it suits sensitive skin. The ingredient is non-comedogenic and does not dry the skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Polylactic Acid safe during pregnancy?
Polylactic Acid is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Polylactic Acid for?
Polylactic Acid suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Polylactic Acid and what does it do in cosmetics?
A biodegradable plant polymer.
What's the INCI name for Polylactic Acid?
The INCI name is Polylactic Acid. It may also appear as: PLA.
See Polylactic Acid in a product composition right on the store page
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.
Similar role in the formula
Published: · updated: