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Moumoujus

ETHYL LACTATE.

Valuable CAS 97-64-3 / PERFUMING, SOLVENT

Ethyl lactate is an ester that, upon topical application, converts into lactic acid and ethanol on the skin. This dual action effectively addresses mild acne by gently exfoliating, unclogging pores, and inhibiting acne-causing bacteria.

Summary

Acne treatment Exfoliant (chemical) Antimicrobial pH regulator Solvent Perfuming

Science

Mechanism of Action

Ethyl lactate undergoes enzymatic hydrolysis when applied to the skin, yielding lactic acid and ethanol. Lactic acid lowers the skin's pH, which creates an unfavorable environment for the proliferation of Propionibacterium acnes, a key bacterium in acne pathogenesis. This pH reduction also impedes bacterial lipases from hydrolyzing sebum into irritating free fatty acids. The ethanol byproduct contributes antimicrobial effects, while ethyl lactate itself functions as a gentle chemical exfoliant, capable of penetrating sebaceous follicles to aid in pore clearing.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

10%

Key findings

  1. 01 A 10% concentration of ethyl lactate in lotions has been clinically shown to effectively unclog pores and reduce acne lesions. Comparative studies highlight its efficacy for mild acne as being similar to benzoyl peroxide, with good overall skin tolerability.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH ≥3.5
0 7 14

Stability

Ethyl lactate is prone to hydrolysis into ethanol and lactic acid when exposed to water, strong acids, or strong bases. To enhance stability and extend shelf life by mitigating solvent oxidation, the inclusion of antioxidants like BHT is recommended.

Conflicts

  • Water (long-term hydrolysis)
  • Strong acids
  • Strong bases

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
10%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The CIR Expert Panel deems ethyl lactate safe for cosmetic use at concentrations up to 10% in formulations with a final pH of 3.5 or higher. Products containing it should include directions for daily sun protection to avoid increased sun sensitivity. For professional salon use, concentrations up to 30% are permitted for brief, rinsed applications, also with sun protection guidance. Ethyl lactate is also FDA approved as a direct food additive.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Ethyl lactate is a valuable ingredient for managing mild acne, offering effective pore unclogging and bacterial inhibition through a gentle exfoliating action.

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