dl-lactic acid

**DL-lactic acid** is the racemic mixture (1:1 ratio) of D-lactic acid and L-lactic acid enantiomers, with the molecular formula C3H6O3. It is a colorless to yellow, syrupy, water-soluble organic acid, classified as an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). DL-lactic acid serves as a chemical intermediate, acidulant, and keratolytic agent. Its main uses include: - **Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics:** Acts as a pH regulator, keratolytic, and humectant, and is used for manufacturing water-soluble lactate salts, topical preparations, and cleansing/antibacterial agents. - **Food Industry:** Employed as an acidulant and preservative. - **Industrial Uses:** Precursor for polylactic acid (PLA) production (biodegradable plastics), mordant in textiles, and incorporated in various products such as food, beverages, leather, and plastics. The mechanism of action in medicinal and cosmetic applications involves keratolysis (promoting exfoliation of the stratum corneum) and acidification, producing antibacterial effects and contributing to humectant properties.

Other names

lactic acid2-hydroxypropanoic acidmilk acidlactatepolylactic acidethylidenelactic acidlactovagantonsillosanacidum lacticumdl-lactate