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Glycolic acid vs Lactic Acid

 
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Mike



Joined: 29 Sep 2006
Posts: 121

PostPosted: Fri Oct 27, 2006 5:40 pm    Post subject: Glycolic acid vs Lactic Acid Reply with quote

What are the advanatages and disadvantages of using glycolic acid vs lactic acid in the treatment of sun damaged skin? What are the issues that would make either one a better choice? I believe glycolic acid is a smaller molecule and penetrates into the dermis better than lactic acid, and lactic acid may be a better humectant than glycolic acid. But what about things like collagen stimulation and remodeling? Are the side effect profiles much different?
Thanks!
Mike
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drtodorov
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Joined: 10 Dec 2004
Posts: 3177

PostPosted: Fri Oct 27, 2006 11:41 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

It is true that for very dry skin lactate seems to work better. However, most studies showing improvements in signs of aging have been done with glycolic acid. You are right, glycolic acid is smaller, but both are quite small. Besdes, latic is a bit more lipophilic and a weaker acid, so it is hard to say which will penetrate better. Many factors affect penetration including size, charge (and its dependency on pH), polarity, lipophilicity, etc.

But glycolic acid is a stronger exfoliator.


Last edited by drtodorov on Sat Oct 28, 2006 7:29 pm; edited 1 time in total
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Mike



Joined: 29 Sep 2006
Posts: 121

PostPosted: Sat Oct 28, 2006 6:43 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Would it be reasonable to try using a lactic acid wash, rather than a glycolic acid wash for someone with sensitive skin? If so, what do you thin would be the equivalent concentration to try to match the efficacy of a 10% glycolic acid wash?
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Mike
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drtodorov
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PostPosted: Sat Oct 28, 2006 7:32 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

If you have sensitve skin AHA may not be the way to go. You can gently exfoliate with, for example, sugar scrub. If you want the benefits of lactate as a hydrating agent, consider lachydrin.
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Mike



Joined: 29 Sep 2006
Posts: 121

PostPosted: Sat Oct 28, 2006 11:16 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Are there any known advantages / disadvantages comparing a lactic acid wash vs a glycolic acid wash for any skin type?
Thanks!
Mike
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drtodorov
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PostPosted: Sun Oct 29, 2006 1:19 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

As far as wash goes, assuming same pH, I don't think there will be much difference between glycolic or lactic based one because contact with the skin is brief. As a skin cream (for improvement of skin texture, etc.) studies indicate glycolic to be a bit more effective - if I recall correctly.
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wannerce



Joined: 20 Jan 2009
Posts: 63

PostPosted: Wed Jan 21, 2009 9:39 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

try dermalogica's lactic "resurfacing" cleanser from their age smart line - excellent results, athough a little drying, so use maybe every other night.
Let me know what you think!

Claudia
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