Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

CALCIUM LACTATE.

Valuable CAS 814-80-2 / ASTRINGENT, BUFFERING, KERATOLYTIC

A multifunctional mineral salt that serves as both a biological signaling agent and a sophisticated humectant. It bridges the gap between barrier restoration and gentle surface refinement, making it a staple for precision-focused skincare.

Summary

Humectant Skin Conditioning Agent pH Buffering Keratolytic Barrier Reinforcement

Science

Mechanism of Action

Calcium Lactate utilizes a dual-action pathway to enhance skin health. The lactate component integrates into the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) to bind water, while the calcium ions regulate the epidermal 'calcium gradient.' This signaling stimulates keratinocyte differentiation and lipid synthesis, specifically ceramides, which structurally reinforces the skin barrier and accelerates gentle cell turnover without the irritation associated with pure acids.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 2–10%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Application at 2-5% in water-in-oil emulsions significantly reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and preserves barrier integrity in xerotic skin conditions.
  2. 02 Concentrations between 3-10% at pH 3.5+ promote effective chemical exfoliation and improved skin uniformity.
  3. 03 A 5% concentration is established as the No Observed Adverse Effect Concentration (NOAEC) for long-term topical safety.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
2%
Red flag below
0.5%

While frequently used at low levels (<1%) as a pH buffer, concentrations of at least 2% are necessary to elicit measurable barrier-repair and humectant benefits. Inclusions below 0.5% typically serve purely functional, rather than bioactive, roles.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3.5 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Highly stable in aqueous environments between pH 6-8; however, it requires robust preservation systems to prevent microbial growth. Crystallization may occur at high concentrations or in low-temperature storage.

Synergies

  • Urea
  • Lactic Acid
  • Ceramides
  • Glycerin

Conflicts

  • Sodium Alginate
  • Gellan Gum
  • Carrageenan
  • Phosphates
  • Strong Oxidizing Agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
10%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Generally recognized as safe up to 10% for consumer products at pH ≥ 3.5. Professional applications may reach 30% at pH ≥ 3.0.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An essential mineral-organic hybrid that provides reliable barrier support and gentle exfoliation with an excellent safety profile for all skin types.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…