Try our NEW Grass Fed Tallow Balm Products! SHOP HERE.

What does your skin, yogurt, and lactic acid have to do with each other?

written by

Marie Reedell

posted on

July 21, 2023

skincare-lactic-acid-yogurt.jpg

A friend gifted me some natural-ish bath & body products (face masks, creams, oils, etc). This was a real treat, as I usually make a lot of these things at home (of course, to avoid synthetic additives and greenwashed labels).

One thing that stood out was a “lactic acid treatment” for skin. It boasts exfoliation, removing dead dull surface skin, and restoring clarity and smoothness. It brightens dark spots and discoloration and instantly plumps the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Wow, that sounds great, right?

When I hear the word “lactic acid”, I immediately think about dairy and fermentation. I don’t generally think about skin… but now I am!

I’ve used yogurt and kefir in face masks before, but I was doing it for the probiotics and to balance pH. Since your skin is the largest organ on your body, having a good microbiologic balance is so important. But now, I have another reason – lactic acid!!! 

Read on for more info about lactic acid, yogurt, and using it on your skin.

The science behind what lactic acid does for your skin

Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is commonly used in skincare products and treatments. It is derived from sources such as sour milk, fruits, and vegetables (more on that later). Lactic acid has several beneficial effects on the skin due to its chemical properties and interactions with the skin's physiology. Here are some key aspects of lactic acid's effects on the skin:

  • Exfoliation: Lactic acid acts as a chemical exfoliant, meaning it helps to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. It does this by loosening the bonds between skin cells, allowing them to be easily shed. This exfoliating action helps to smooth the skin's texture, improve its tone, and promote a more youthful appearance.
  • Moisturization: Lactic acid has humectant properties, which means it helps the skin retain moisture. It attracts water molecules from the environment and draws them into the skin, hydrating and plumping it. This moisturizing effect can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or dehydrated skin.
  • Stimulates collagen production: Lactic acid stimulates the production of collagen, a protein that provides structural support to the skin. Collagen helps maintain the skin's elasticity and firmness, and its production tends to decline with age. By promoting collagen synthesis, lactic acid can help improve the skin's elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and contribute to a more youthful complexion.
  • Improves skin tone and hyperpigmentation: Lactic acid has the ability to inhibit the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. By doing so, it can help reduce the appearance of dark spots, uneven skin tone, and hyperpigmentation caused by factors such as sun damage or acne scars. Regular use of lactic acid can lead to a more even, radiant complexion.
  • Enhances product penetration: Lactic acid also has the ability to enhance the penetration of other skincare products. By exfoliating the outermost layer of the skin, it allows active ingredients in serums, moisturizers, or treatments to penetrate more deeply and effectively, maximizing their benefits.

Natural sources for lactic acid

Lactic acid can be found naturally in various food sources. Here are some examples of natural sources of lactic acid:

  • Fermented dairy products: Lactic acid is commonly present in fermented dairy products like yogurt, kefir, and buttermilk. The bacteria used in the fermentation process convert lactose (milk sugar) into lactic acid, giving these products their characteristic tangy taste.
  • Fermented vegetables: Lactic acid fermentation is also used to preserve and flavor vegetables. Sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, and other fermented vegetables contain lactic acid produced by the fermentation process.
  • Fruits: Certain fruits naturally contain lactic acid. For example, sour cherries, apples, and grapes have lactic acid content, although in relatively small amounts compared to other sources.
  • Fermented beverages: Some traditional fermented beverages, such as kombucha and certain types of fruit juices, can contain lactic acid produced during the fermentation process.
  • Sourdough bread: Sourdough bread is made by fermenting a mixture of flour and water using wild yeasts and bacteria. Lactic acid is one of the byproducts of this fermentation process, contributing to the unique flavor and texture of sourdough bread.
  • Some types of meat and fish: Lactic acid can also be produced during the fermentation of certain types of meat and fish. Examples include traditional cured and fermented meats like sausages or fish sauces like Thai fish sauce.

Should I put any kind of food containing lactic acid on my skin?

Well, of course the only person who can answer this question is you! At Miller’s Bio Farm, we 100% believe in the right to choose what you consume or put on your body.

That being said, although the natural foods listed above all contain lactic acid, it might not be the best idea to use them directly on your skin. I mean, I’ve never heard of a sourdough mask or kombucha serum or a hot salami treatment. But… I’ve heard of yogurt or kefir being used for skincare, and I’ve done it personally myself with great results. 

A grand majority of the internet will likely tell you that store bought skincare products are the only safe source of lactic acid for skin. But, if you’re here reading this, then you likely know that’s absolutely not true. 

Sure, skincare products use lactic acid that’s synthetically derived and produced through controlled fermentation processes specifically for cosmetic use. But, on the other hand, they contain synthetic ingredients and unknown additives that you may want to avoid. Plus, making skincare products at home is so much more affordable than buying them pre-made.

The amount of lactic acid in yogurt or kefir vs store bought beauty products

The lactic acid treatment that I was gifted contains 5% lactic acid, and it seems the same is true for similar products. In comparison, yogurt has about 0.9% lactic acid and kefir has about 1%. 

So, yogurt and kefir contain a lot less lactic acid than beauty products. What does that mean? To get the results of the store bought counterpart, you need to use it more often. 

For us “natural folks”, this is nothing new. For example, if you take an antibiotic, it’s super powered and you need 1-2 pills per day. But, if you opt for a natural antibiotic like garlic or colloidal silver or oregano, you need more doses more often. 

Other benefits of using yogurt or kefir on your skin

You’ll get all the benefits of using lactic acid on skin listed above PLUS more:

  • Moisturization: Yogurt and kefir contain natural fats and proteins that help hydrate and moisturize the skin. They can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or dehydrated skin, providing a boost of moisture and helping to improve skin elasticity.
  • Exfoliation: The lactic acid helps with exfoliation, but the natural enzymes in yogurt and kefir also gently exfoliate the skin. They help to remove dead skin cells and promote a smoother complexion, improving the skin's texture and brightness.
  • Acne treatment: Yogurt and kefir have antimicrobial properties that can help inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria. Applying yogurt or kefir topically may assist in reducing acne breakouts and calming existing blemishes.
  • Supporting the skin's natural barrier: Probiotics can enhance the skin's natural protective barrier by reinforcing the skin's defense mechanisms. This can help strengthen the skin's ability to retain moisture, protect against environmental aggressors, and prevent the penetration of harmful microorganisms.
  • Calming skin inflammation: Probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated or inflamed skin. By reducing inflammation, they can assist in managing conditions such as acne, rosacea, or eczema.
  • Balancing the skin's pH: The acidic pH of yogurt and kefir helps maintain the skin's natural pH balance, which is important for a healthy skin barrier function. By preserving the optimal pH level, probiotics in yogurt and kefir can promote overall skin health and prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria.
  • Regulating sebum production: Some studies suggest that certain strains of probiotics can help regulate sebum production in the skin. Excessive sebum production can contribute to oily skin and acne, so balancing sebum levels may lead to improved skin clarity.

Recipes for homemade yogurt or kefir masks

If you’re looking to avoid chemical-laden beauty products or simply save money by making body products at home, here are a few simple yet amazing recipes. For each recipe, simply mix the ingredients together and apply to clean, dry skin. Let sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water.

Antibacterial Yogurt & Honey Mask

Add the antibacterial and hydrating benefits of honey.

  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt (or kefir)
  • 1 tablespoon raw honey

Anti-Inflammatory Yogurt & Turmeric Mask

Add the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits of turmeric.

  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt (or kefir)
  • 1 tablespoon turmeric

Purifying Yogurt & Activated Charcoal Mask

Add the cleansing and purifying properties of activated charcoal.

  • 1 tablespoon plain yogurt (or kefir)
  • 1 capsule of activated charcoal 

Exfoliating Yogurt, Honey & Oats Mask

Add the exfoliating benefits of ground oats and the antibacterial and hydrating benefits of honey. 

  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt (or kefir)
  • 1 tablespoon raw honey
  • 1 tablespoon finely ground oats (or almonds)

If you’d like, you can add 1-2 drops of essential oil to the above recipes for fragrance and added benefits:

  • Lavender Essential Oil: Soothes and calms the skin, promotes relaxation, and has antibacterial properties.
  • Tea Tree Essential Oil: Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, helps fight acne and blemishes, and can aid in controlling excess oil.
  • Frankincense Essential Oil: Helps promote skin regeneration, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and has a rejuvenating effect on the skin.
  • Rosehip Essential Oil: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, helps reduce scars, hyperpigmentation, and signs of aging, and provides deep hydration to the skin.
  • Chamomile Essential Oil: Known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, soothes sensitive and irritated skin, and can help with conditions like eczema and rosacea.
  • Geranium Essential Oil: Balances sebum production, tightens the skin, and promotes a healthy complexion. It is also known for its uplifting aroma.
  • Ylang Ylang Essential Oil: Helps balance oil production, improves skin elasticity, and has a calming and uplifting effect on the mind.
  • Neroli Essential Oil: Regenerates and rejuvenates the skin, reduces the appearance of scars and stretch marks, and has a beautiful floral fragrance.
  • Carrot Seed Essential Oil: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, promotes skin rejuvenation, helps improve skin tone, and provides natural sun protection.
  • Patchouli Essential Oil: Known for its cell-renewing properties, helps with skin conditions like acne and eczema, and has a grounding and earthy aroma.

*It's important to note that while lactic acid offers several benefits for the skin, it can also cause sensitivity, especially in higher concentrations or for individuals with sensitive skin. It is recommended to perform a patch test before using lactic acid products and to start with lower concentrations, gradually increasing if tolerated well. Consulting with a dermatologist or skincare professional is always advisable to determine the best approach for your specific skin needs.


More from the blog

From Grass To Glow: Tallow Skin Care

From Grass To Glow: Tallow Skin Care

Tallow might sound old-school, but this grass-fed goodness is pure skin food. Packed with vitamins A, D, E & K plus CLA, it mimics your skin’s natural fats for maximum absorption. The result? Happy, nourished, glowing skin, without the chemicals

Read more
What’s really in a grocery store turkey?

What’s really in a grocery store turkey?

It’s that time of year again—the turkey takes center stage. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a Sunday family dinner, a golden-brown bird is often the star of the show. But if you’re grabbing a conventional turkey from the grocery store, you might be wondering: what’s actually in it besides turkey? Why not add weird stuff to our holiday dinner? Many conventional turkeys are “enhanced” before they even make it to the freezer aisle. That usually means they’ve been injected with a solution of water, salt, and sometimes sugar or broth. It’s meant to keep the meat "moist and flavorful", but it also means your turkey may contain up to 15% of stuff that isn’t turkey. Always check the fine print on the label—you might be paying turkey prices for salty water. I sure hope you like your turkey with a side of salt! Those injections can leave a grocery store turkey surprisingly high in sodium. And when you see “natural flavorings” or “seasonings” on the label, it isn’t always just herbs and spices—it can also mean more hidden salt and flavor enhancers. So what exactly are these “boosters”? Think modified food starch for texture, “natural flavorings,” caramel coloring, and sometimes even MSG for that extra hit of savory flavor.Here’s the kicker: take a look at this turkey below—it’s sold by a major brand and proudly labeled ALL NATURAL. But read closely, and you’ll see it actually contains about 4% “other ingredients” that aren’t clearly listed. Makes you wonder, right? Turns out the real stuffing happens long before Thanksgiving—it’s all corn, soy, and unnatural junk. Conventional turkeys are typically raised on large farms where antibiotics may be used to prevent illness in crowded conditions. The USDA regulates withdrawal periods before processing (meaning the birds shouldn’t have antibiotics in their system at slaughter). So does that mean the birds really aren't antibiotic free after all? How confusing for the consumer! As for what the conventional turkeys are fed: Grains:Corn, wheat, and barley aren’t just wholesome-sounding grains—they’re the cheapest way to pack calories into a turkey, fueling rapid growth. Efficiency, not nutrition, is the goal here.Seed Oils:Soy, canola, and flaxseed are tossed in, not out of kindness, but to boost fat content and keep growth on track. Soy especially dominates, since it’s cheap and plentiful—most of it genetically modified. So these turkeys are definitely not low PUFA.Protein sources:Turkeys grow fast, and that means they need protein—lots of it. Beyond soy, feed mills mix in other plant-based proteins to supercharge growth in young poults. The formula isn’t about balance or natural diets; it’s about pushing birds to market weight as quickly as possible. Seed oils, sugar and more, OH MY! Certain “self-basting” turkeys may also contain a touch of sugar or dextrose, oils, or even phosphates to help retain moisture during roasting. My gosh this list keeps going on and on... And the star of the show... Conventional turkeys are genetically bred to grow quickly and large, especially in the breast area—because that’s what most shoppers want. It’s something Big Ag has down to a science: decades of selective breeding for size and speed at the expense of health and flavor. The result? A bird designed for profit margins, not taste. Compared to wild or heritage turkeys, today’s supermarket turkeys are bland, bloated, and bred to fit industry demand, not the dinner table. These turkeys don’t look much like wild turkeys anymore. So what's in a Miller's turkey that makes them so darn special? ✔ Pasture Raised✔ Corn & Soy Free✔ Traditional "White" Breed - Has nice sized breasts✔ Washed in Water and Only Water✔ Nothing Added - No artificial flavors, no colors, no synthetic ingredients, no preservatives✔ Vaccine, Chemical, Antibiotic, Drug, and GMO FreeWondering what's in our turkey feed? Here you go! Soy & Corn Free Turkey Feed  Shop our Pastured Turkey  (P.S. whole turkeys are coming soon!) The next time you are in the grocery store and see those giant turkey breasts wrapped in plastic, remember: that bird didn’t get that way by accident. It got that way by design.

Read more
Does exploding milk kefir mean it's bad? Not necessarily.

Does exploding milk kefir mean it's bad? Not necessarily.

We get this question from customers on the regular --> "My kefir exploded. Is that normal? Does that mean it's bad?" The answer? Bubbly volcanic kefir is 100% ok. Kefir is known as the "champagne of dairy" for a reason! In case you haven't tried it, milk kefir is a fermented drink made with milk. It's similar in taste to yogurt (a little stronger in my opinion) but has more probiotics.  As I've heard it said, yogurt is good for cleansing the gut. Kefir, on the other hand, adds to the gut. People working to heal or enhance the function of their digestive system often turn to kefir as part of this process. Even though kefir has been around for thousands of years, it seems that there's still some mystery around it. I mean, it's just not as popular as yogurt, particularly in the US. Bubbles in kefir are a natural part of the fermentation process. To make kefir, you need to add culture to milk. Different from yogurt culture, which is strains of probiotic bacteria only, kefir is a symbiotic culture of probiotic bacteria AND yeast.  Once the culture is added, you let it ferment at room temp. The culture eats up the milk sugar (AKA lactose), creates bubbles (AKA CO2), and grows more of the culture. When you get bubbly kefir, that's a sure sign that it's fermented. It's also a sure sign that it's probiotic. After all, the more CO2, the more eating and duplicating the bacteria and yeast did. After we make it, kefir will continue to ferment. It will happen more rapidly at room temp and more slowly in the fridge. But, it's still happening. More and more bubbles are created over time. And, if that container is air tight, lots of pressure builds up within the container. If you don't open the kefir and it's super fermented, there is the potential for lots of bubbles upon opening. Here's a short video of a kefir explosion: And, here's a little story about the worst kefir explosion I've heard of. Years ago, we used to sell blueberry kefir. With that added sugary fruit in the end, the culture would really take off. A customer sent us a picture of blueberry kefir on her kitchen ceiling!! It really exploded. I wish I could have been there to help her clean it up! Open slowly or burp kefir to stop it from exploding. Not a fan of your kefir exploding? Thankfully, there's an easy solution. Open slowly. Simply crack the lid a little, and let the gas escape before opening all the way. You could even burp your kefir every day or two in the fridge to prevent it from getting too bubbly. The only way to stop kefir from fermenting and creating more bubbles is to freeze it. However, I don't recommend that.  First off, kefir tends to get clumpy when thawed.  Second, there's some probiotic loss when freezing. The longer it's frozen, the more probiotic loss. If you need to freeze kefir for later, I don't recommend freezing it for more than 3 months. You know kefir really went bad by the smell and look. When you make kefir with raw milk, it's slowly turning into kefir cheese. So when I say it goes "bad", it's really just knowing when it's too sour or pungent to palate. It's not necessarily a safety issue. Here are two things to look for: Putrid Smell: OK, kefir smells funky, even good kefir. But, especially if you've been drinking kefir for a while, you should be able to tell when it smells putrid. Like, you absolutely aren't able to consume it.Massive Separation: A little separation in kefir is normal. You will see the whey (a yellowish liquid) separate from the thicker white part. But, if it's all separated, and the white creamy part has turned into a mass of clumps, it's probably not the best to consume anymore. *Side note: I think this is why most kefir comes in a container that's NOT clear. When you make kefir with pasteurized milk, it's a different story. Since there isn't a natural community of microorganisms that are regulating themselves, it has the potential to go bad in a dangerous way. In addition to the signs listed above, here's one more thing to look for: Visible Mold: Especially green, orange, red, or black mold, which is a clear indication that the kefir is bad and should be tossed. All in all, this is really about trusting your gut and being connected to your food. How bubbly has your kefir been? Have you ever had it explode? Do you drink kefir for its yumminess or probiotic benefits? I'd love to hear from you. Comment below to share your thoughts with our community (no account required). Or, contact us to keep it private 😊

Read more
Return To Top


Do

Learn

Uphold

Connect


OUR MISSION is to be an amazing and reliable source for farm direct, nutrient dense food.

OUR VISION is to end sickness by enhancing health, nutrition, and happiness.

OUR PURPOSE is to inspire a generation of healthy children and reduce healthcare costs.


Miller's Bio Farm, 523 Valley Road, Quarryville, PA 17566 

 Contact us. Send a note to hello@millersbiofarm.com. Call us at (717) 786-7895.

 Copyright © 2023 Miller’s Bio Farm • Payments secured by Stripe 


Powered by Stripe
Privacy Policy