Definition
A gentle alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk that exfoliates the skin's surface, improves moisture retention, and brightens tone. Milder than glycolic acid.
Lactic acid is one of the larger AHA molecules, which means it works more on the surface of the skin than smaller acids like glycolic. The trade-off — gentler, slower exfoliation — is also its strength: it's much better tolerated by dry, sensitive, and reactive skin, and it has a hydrating side effect that other AHAs don't share.
Exfoliation
The process of removing dead skin cells from the skin's surface, either physically (scrubs, devices) or chemically (acids, enzymes) to reveal fresher skin.
Glycolic Acid
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane, used for chemical exfoliation. The smallest AHA molecule, it penetrates skin most effectively.
AHA (Alpha-Hydroxy Acid)
A family of water-soluble acids — including glycolic, lactic, and mandelic — that dissolve the 'glue' holding dead skin cells together, smoothing texture and brightening tone.
AlphaRet
SkinBetter Science's patented formulation that combines a retinoid with lactic acid (an AHA) to deliver retinol-level anti-aging results with significantly less irritation.