Lactose – Cosmetic Uses in Skin Conditioning and Moisturising
What Is Lactose?
Lactose is a disaccharide sugar found naturally in milk. It consists of two simple sugars, galactose and glucose, and has the molecular formula C₁₂H₂₂O₁₁.
The lactose content of milk varies between species and individuals and generally represents approximately 2–8% of milk by weight. Commercial lactose is commonly obtained from sweet or sour whey.
The name originates from lac, the Latin word for milk, combined with the -ose suffix commonly used for sugars.
Cosmetic Uses
In cosmetic formulations, lactose functions primarily as a humectant and skin-conditioning ingredient. Its use is associated with helping maintain moisture and supporting a pleasant skin feel.
It can therefore be incorporated into formulations where moisturising and skin-conditioning properties are desired.
Ingredient Information
INCI: Lactose
CAS: 63-42-3
EINECS/EC: Not specified on the original A&T source
Functions: Humectant, Skin Conditioning
Source
Dweck, Anthony. Handbook of Natural Ingredients (Dweck Books 4) . Dweck Data. Kindle Edition.
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