Ammonium Lactate

What is Ammonium Lactate?

Ammonium lactate is the ammonium salt of lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid produced through fermentation of sugars or sourced from milk. Its chemical formula is C3H9NO4, and it exists as a clear, viscous solution in cosmetics. Primarily featured in moisturizers, body lotions, and leave-on treatments for dry or rough areas, it performs key roles in formulations. As a humectant, it binds water molecules to the skin's surface layers, supporting moisture retention. The keratolytic action loosens keratin connections in the outer skin layer, aiding cell turnover for refined texture. It also buffers pH for formula stability and conditions skin to enhance flexibility and softness. This multifunctional ingredient balances hydration with mild exfoliation, making it suitable for daily skincare routines focused on barrier support.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1-4 View on EWG →

PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Buffering agent

Maintains the pH stability of a formulation.

Exfoliant

Helps remove dead surface cells to smooth texture and enhance radiance; can be physical (particles) or chemical/enzymatic depending on the ingredient type.

Humectant

Attracts and holds water in the stratum corneum, boosting hydration and plumpness; commonly used in moisturizers, cleansers, and hair conditioners.

Keratolytic

Promotes shedding of thickened, rough skin by loosening keratin bonds, useful in smoothing, anti-dandruff, and callus-targeting treatments.

Skin conditioning agent

Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Enhances skin hydration by drawing in and holding moisture.

Promotes smoother texture through gentle exfoliation of dead cells.

Improves skin softness and flexibility as a conditioning agent.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
People with dry or rough skin seeking added moisture.	Individuals with highly sensitive skin prone to stinging.
Individuals wanting mild exfoliation for texture refinement.	People with known allergies to lactic acid or its salts.
Those using pH-balanced moisturizers for daily hydration.	Those with compromised skin barriers or open irritations.

Safety Notes

EWG rates it 1-4, indicating low to moderate concern.
Non-comedogenic with a rating of 0, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ammonium Lactate

What does ammonium lactate do in skincare?

It hydrates as a humectant, exfoliates mildly, buffers pH, and conditions skin for softness.

Is ammonium lactate non-comedogenic?

Yes, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.

Can sensitive skin use products with it?

It may irritate very sensitive skin; patch test and use low concentrations.