Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan

Ammonium Lactate

Ammonium (2S)-2-hydroxypropanoate

Safety Flags
Safety Notes

Ammonium salt of lactic acid; combined humectant and keratolytic action; used clinically at 12% (Lac-Hydrin) for dry skin/ichthyosis; cosmetic concentrations typically 2-5%; mild stinging on broken skin; EU CosIng COSING REF 74403

Function & Common Use

Function

Humectant / Keratolytic / pH Regulator / Skin-Conditioning Agent

Category

Humectants

Common In

Body lotions (especially dry/ichthyotic skin), moisturizing creams, keratolytic treatments

Origin

Synthetic

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

None

EU Cosmetics Reg.

None

US FDA (21 CFR)

None (OTC cosmetic); Rx up to 12%

Korea (MFDS)

None

Format restriction: None

Baby restriction: No

Pregnancy: No

IFRA: No

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ammonium Lactate safe to use in skincare?

Ammonium Lactate has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Ammonium salt of lactic acid; combined humectant and keratolytic action; used clinically at 12% (Lac-Hydrin) for dry skin/ichthyosis; cosmetic concentrations typically 2-5%; mild stinging on broken skin; EU CosIng COSING REF 74403

Is Ammonium Lactate allowed in India?

Ammonium Lactate is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is None.

What is Ammonium Lactate used for in cosmetics?

Ammonium Lactate functions as: Humectant / Keratolytic / pH Regulator / Skin-Conditioning Agent. It is commonly found in: Body lotions (especially dry/ichthyotic skin), moisturizing creams, keratolytic treatments.

Can Ammonium Lactate cause an allergic reaction?

Yes. Ammonium Lactate has an allergen flag (No). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.

Is Ammonium Lactate safe for babies?

Ammonium Lactate has baby/child restrictions: No. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.

TCS Assessment
Low Concern
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted (Rx moisturizer formulations at 12% e.g. Lac-Hydrin)
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted
Australia (TGA)
Permitted
Canada (NHPID)
Permitted

EU Annex: None

Identifiers

CAS515-98-0
EC208-214-8

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