What Is Ammonium Lactate?
Ammonium lactate is the ammonium salt of lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid that naturally occurs when sugars are broken down in milk and in our own bodies. Combining lactic acid with ammonia neutralizes some of the acid’s sting while keeping its hydrating talents intact. First explored in the 1970s as a gentler way to deliver lactic acid to the skin, it was soon adopted by cosmetic chemists who wanted effective exfoliation without harshness. Industrially, manufacturers ferment plant-derived sugars to create lactic acid, then add food-grade ammonia until a stable salt forms. The result is a water-soluble white powder or clear liquid that blends easily into creams, lotions and gels. You will spot it in everyday moisturizers, foot creams, hand lotions, body exfoliators, anti-aging serums and even some sheet masks where smoother softer skin is the goal.
Ammonium Lactate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In a formula ammonium lactate works in several helpful ways:
- Buffering: It helps control and stabilize pH so other active ingredients stay effective and skin feels comfortable.
- Humectant: It draws water from the environment into the upper layers of skin, boosting hydration and leaving a plumper look.
- Keratolytic: By loosening the bonds between dead surface cells it encourages gentle exfoliation which can improve texture and radiance.
- Skin conditioning: Regular use supports a smoother barrier making skin feel soft and supple while enhancing overall appearance.
Who Can Use Ammonium Lactate
Most skin types can benefit from ammonium lactate. Its humectant action suits dry and dehydrated skin, while the gentle exfoliation can smooth rough patches on normal and combination skin. People with very sensitive or broken skin may feel a mild sting because the salt still carries some acidity, so they might prefer lower strengths or skip it entirely.
The ingredient is made by fermenting plant sugars then neutralizing the lactic acid with ammonia, so it is usually considered vegan and vegetarian friendly unless a brand states otherwise.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women are generally not restricted from using topical ammonium lactate, but this is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare choice past a doctor to stay on the safe side.
Unlike stronger alpha-hydroxy acids, ammonium lactate is less likely to cause photosensitivity yet it is still wise to keep up daily sunscreen because fresher skin cells are always more vulnerable to UV damage.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical ammonium lactate vary by individual. The points below list potential side effects that could occur although most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Stinging or burning may be felt during the first few minutes after application especially on freshly shaved or compromised skin
- Redness or irritation can appear if the formula is too strong for the user’s tolerance
- Dryness or flaking may develop when overused because the exfoliation speeds up cell turnover
- Sun sensitivity could increase slightly making diligent daytime SPF more important
- Allergic reaction such as itching hives or swelling is rare but possible for those with an ammonium or lactic acid allergy
- Interaction with other actives like potent retinoids or strong acids can heighten irritation
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs stop use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Ammonium lactate is water soluble and leaves no oily or waxy residue that could clog pores. Its gentle exfoliating action can even help clear away the dead cells and debris that sometimes trap sebum. Because it does not add occlusive film and is usually formulated at low concentrations in lightweight bases it earns a zero on the comedogenic scale. This makes it well suited to those prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
As with any exfoliant, overuse can irritate skin which might flare existing blemishes, so frequency and formulation strength still matter.
Summary
Ammonium lactate acts as a buffer, humectant, keratolytic and skin conditioner. It balances pH so other actives stay stable, pulls moisture into the upper layers for lasting hydration, loosens the bonds between dead cells for smooth even texture and leaves skin feeling softer and more resilient.
It shows up in many body lotions and targeted treatments for rough elbows, heels or keratosis pilaris but remains less of a headline ingredient in facial serums compared with trendier acids. Even so its mix of hydration and mild exfoliation keeps it a quiet staple in pharmacy aisles and dermatologist offices.
Topically it is considered low risk with minimal chance of clogging pores or causing allergy when used as directed. Still, skin can be unpredictable so performing a small patch test before full use is a smart precaution with any new product that contains ammonium lactate.