Lac-Hydrin Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, Studies, Metabolism - Lactic Acid

Lac-Hydrin Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, Studies, Metabolism - Lactic Acid

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

It is generally accepted that the water content of the stratum corneum is a controlling factor in maintaining skin flexibility. When the stratum corneum contains more than 10% water it remains soft and pliable; however, when the water content drops below 10% the stratum corneum becomes less flexible and rough, and may exhibit scaling and cracking and the underlying skin may become irritated. ^{1, 2}

Symptomatic relief of dry skin is provided by skin protectants containing hygroscopic substances (humectants) which increase skin moisture. Lactic acid, an a-hydroxy acid, is reported to be one of the most effective naturally occurring humectants in the skin.³ The

a-hydroxy acids (and their salts), in addition to having beneficial effects on dry skin, have also been shown to reduce excessive epidermal keratinization in patients with hyperkeratotic conditions (e.g., ichthyosis).⁴

The mechanism of action of topically applied neutralized lactic acid is not yet known.