indication

For the treatment of dry, scaly skin (xerosis) and ichthyosis vulgaris and for temporary relief of itching associated with these conditions.

pharmacology

Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid. It is a normal constituent of tissues and blood. The alpha-hydroxy acids (and their salts) may act as humectants when applied to the skin. This property may influence hydration of the stratum corneum. In addition, lactic acid, when applied to the skin, may act to decrease corneocyte cohesion.

mechanism of action

Unknown.

toxicity

The oral administration of Lac-Hydrin to rats and mice showed this drug to be practically non-toxic (LD50 > 15 mL/kg).

absorption

In vitro study of percutaneous absorption of ammonium lactate lotion, 12% using human cadaver skin indicates that approximately 5.8% of the material was absorbed after 68 hours.