For skin
- HumectantWater binding can help support a hydrated skin feel in a well-formulated product.
- Skin ConditioningA broad skin-conditioning role is recorded. A more specific benefit needs ingredient-level evidence.
An alpha-hydroxy-acid ingredient used in different types of cosmetic formulas.
Explore the recorded roles of LACTIC ACID and what they can mean in a cosmetic formula.
The panels below interpret this ingredient’s recorded functions. They describe possible contributions, not proven clinical results. Any individually reviewed study is shown separately.
No hair-specific function has been mapped from this source record. Hair or scalp benefits have not yet been reviewed here.
Examples associated with the recorded function classes; these are not verified product listings or instructions to apply the raw ingredient.
Ingredient form, concentration, pH, delivery system and contact time can change the result. A skin finding does not establish a hair benefit; a conditioning or fibre result does not establish hair growth.
CosIng record · function source ↗CAS and EC identifiers are source references. A botanical extract, polymer or mixture may have more than one identifier; a name does not establish purity, supplier grade or sourcing.
Matched through one source CAS and a confirmed ingredient name or source alias. These facts describe the matched PubChem record; they do not describe particle form, supplier grade or finished-product performance.
Helps manage a formula’s pH. The final pH depends on the whole formulation.
Helps a formula attract and retain water. The overall moisturising effect depends on the complete product.
Used to help keep skin in good condition. This broad function does not identify a specific clinical result.
Functions describe possible roles in a formulation. They do not establish the performance of every product containing this ingredient.
Lactic acid and sodium lactate are different ingredient names with separate records.
A familiar acid can have different functions in different products. Do not assume every appearance means an exfoliating treatment.
These documents form a reading list. A linked opinion may address a particular purity, exposure, concentration or product category. Historical links and current applicability require further review.
Applicable Cosmetics Rules and standards need to be checked for the ingredient, product type and use. Ingredient-specific restrictions have not yet been mapped here.
CosIng records do not authorise use. Check the current Cosmetics Regulation and annexes for restrictions and conditions.
FDA guidance has a US scope. Product classification, colour additives and other ingredient conditions require separate checks.
No personalised suitability or allergy assessment is provided. A source function is separate from human efficacy and finished-product testing.
2D structure · PubChem CID 612 · 2D structure depiction using the PubChem isomeric SMILES record. This does not show particle size, crystal form, supplier grade or raw-material appearance.
Structure rendered for Beaut.in from PubChem data.
Original image / data source ↗
Rendered from the source isomeric SMILES representation. This is not a photograph of the cosmetic raw material. · Reference checked 28 October 2026.
Identity, identifiers and functions. Snapshot checked 28 October 2026. CosIng source reference: 34809.
Beaut.in explains ingredient information in original language. Source inclusion does not constitute endorsement. Source descriptions and annex-table fields are reproduced with credit to the European Union; formatting is normalised. The current record is a dated snapshot, not a live regulatory monitor. Reuse terms: European Commission · CC BY 4.0 ↗.