LACTIC ACID (MILK ACID)

Lactic Acid, also known as Milk Acid, is an organic acid commonly found in fermented foods and produced by the body during exercise.
Lactic Acid is widely used in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries due to its role as a preservative, acidity regulator, and exfoliating agent.
Lactic Acid has the chemical formula C3H6O3 and is known for its gentle exfoliating properties, making it a popular choice in skincare formulations.

CAS Number: 50-21-5
EC Number: 200-018-0
Molecular Formula: C3H6O3
Molecular Weight: 90.08 g/mol

Synonyms: Milk Acid, Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), 2-Hydroxypropanoic Acid, Propanoic Acid, Lactic Acid 90%, Lactic Acid Solution, Lactic Acid USP, Lactic Acid Food Grade

APPLICATIONS

Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is widely used in skincare products, such as facial peels and exfoliants, where it acts as an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) to remove dead skin cells, brighten skin tone, and improve skin texture.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is applied in lotions and creams as a humectant, helping to retain moisture in the skin, making it softer and smoother.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is used in anti-aging products, where it promotes cell turnover and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is essential in food preservation, particularly in pickling and fermentation processes, where it prevents the growth of harmful bacteria and adds a tangy flavor.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is added to dairy products like yogurt and cheese, enhancing flavor and helping to create the ideal acidity level for taste and preservation.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is used in the meat processing industry, where it helps to reduce bacterial contamination on meat surfaces, extending shelf life and improving safety.

Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is a common ingredient in chemical peels for sensitive skin types, where it provides gentle exfoliation without causing irritation.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is incorporated into shampoos and conditioners, where it helps to balance the pH of hair products, leading to healthier, shinier hair.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is used in hand and body washes, where it acts as a natural pH regulator and mild exfoliant, leaving the skin clean and refreshed.

Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is applied in pharmaceutical formulations, where it serves as an acidity regulator and buffering agent, enhancing the stability and effectiveness of medications.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is used in food and beverage products as an acidity regulator, contributing to the tangy taste of sour candies, soft drinks, and sauces.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is employed in baby care products, such as gentle exfoliating lotions, where it provides moisture and mild exfoliation for sensitive skin.

Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is included in oral care products, such as mouthwashes, where it helps to lower the pH of the mouth and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is found in foot care products, where it softens calluses and rough skin, making it easier to exfoliate and achieve smoother feet.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is used in deodorants and antiperspirants, where it inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria, helping to keep the skin fresh.

Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is a popular ingredient in eco-friendly cleaning products, where its natural acidity effectively removes mineral deposits, soap scum, and grease.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is used in agriculture as a pH modifier in animal feed, promoting healthy digestion and reducing pathogenic bacteria in livestock.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is utilized in industrial applications as a biodegradable solvent and acidity regulator for environmentally friendly cleaning products.

DESCRIPTION

Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is a naturally occurring organic acid that belongs to the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family, known for its gentle exfoliating properties.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is widely used in personal care and cosmetic products for its ability to promote cell turnover, brighten skin tone, and improve texture.
In the food industry, Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) plays an essential role as an acidity regulator and preservative, commonly found in fermented foods such as yogurt, pickles, and sauerkraut.

Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is valued for its ability to retain moisture in skincare formulations, making it a popular humectant in lotions, creams, and serums.
As a pH regulator, Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) helps to balance the acidity levels in both cosmetic and food formulations, ensuring product stability and effectiveness.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is an environmentally friendly choice in industrial and cleaning applications due to its biodegradability and low toxicity.

Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is highly versatile, suitable for use in various products ranging from exfoliating facial products to food preservatives.
In hair care, Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) improves the smoothness and strength of hair by balancing pH levels and removing buildup from hair products.
Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is used in pharmaceutical and medical products as a pH-adjusting agent, ensuring that medications and treatments remain stable and effective.

PROPERTIES

Chemical Formula: C3H6O3
Molecular Weight: 90.08 g/mol
Common Name: Lactic Acid (Milk Acid)
Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
Density: 1.2 g/cm³
Boiling Point: 122°C
Melting Point: 16.8°C
Solubility: Soluble in water and ethanol
Flash Point: 110°C
Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions; reacts with strong oxidizing agents
Chemical Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions
Storage Temperature: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Vapor Pressure: Low

FIRST AID

Inhalation:
If Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is inhaled, move the affected person to fresh air immediately.
If breathing difficulties persist, seek immediate medical attention.
If the person is not breathing, administer artificial respiration.
Keep the affected person warm and at rest.

Skin Contact:
Wash the affected area with soap and water.
If skin irritation or rash develops, seek medical attention.

Eye Contact:
In case of eye contact, flush the eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, lifting upper and lower eyelids.
Seek immediate medical attention if irritation or redness persists.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do; continue rinsing.

Ingestion:
If Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) is ingested, do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so by medical personnel.
Rinse the mouth thoroughly with water.
Seek immediate medical attention.
If the person is conscious, give small sips of water to drink.

Note to Physicians:
Treat symptomatically.
No specific antidote.
Provide supportive care.

HANDLING AND STORAGE

Handling:

Personal Protection:
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and safety goggles when handling large quantities of Lactic Acid (Milk Acid).
Use in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhalation of vapors.

Ventilation:
Ensure adequate ventilation when handling large amounts of Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) to control airborne concentrations below occupational exposure limits.

Avoidance:
Avoid direct contact with eyes and prolonged skin contact.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling Lactic Acid (Milk Acid).
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

Spill and Leak Procedures:
Contain spills to prevent further release and minimize exposure.
Absorb with inert material (e.g., sand, vermiculite) and collect for disposal.
Dispose of in accordance with local regulations.

Storage:
Store Lactic Acid (Milk Acid) in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials.
Keep containers tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination.
Store away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and moisture.

Handling Cautions:
Avoid inhalation of vapors and direct contact with skin and eyes.
Use explosion-proof equipment in areas where vapors may be present.