MILK.

Most historians believe that using milk as a beverage began about 10,000 years ago, when animals were first domesticated. Although it is nearly impossible to pinpoint, evidence suggests that this early domestication appeared first in Afghanistan and Iran, then later in Turkey and some areas in Africa. Plymouth Rock colonists brought cattle to America in the 1600s and within 200 years dairies produced large quantities of milk for market in large cities. The 20th century brought new technologies to milk production resulting in safer dairy products worldwide.

Lactic Acid and Skin Care

Lactic acid is a colorless natural substance, discovered over 200 years ago in fermented milk. It is an alpha hydroxy acid used in rejuvenation products, it is considered to be a gentle yet very effective anti-aging treatment, and it is also known for its ability to exfoliate dead skin cells without provoking skin irritation. For these reasons, and countless others, lactic acid has become a standard ingredient in natural skin care recipes – giving it one of the oldest histories as a skin care treatment that literally spans centuries.

Sharing the similar skin rejuvenation traits of glycolic acid, lactic acid skin care is known for: Diminishing fine lines and wrinkles, reducing the appearance of age
spots, reducing hyperpigmentation, improving skin texture, stimulating collagen production, and it is also provides the added benefit of skin softening.

It is not surprising that lactic acid has become a very popular ingredient in both over-the-counter skin care products as well as in homemade natural skin care recipes. In the skin care industry alone lactic acid is used in: shampoos, shower gels, hand creams, facial soaps, moisturizers, anti-wrinkle products, skin disorder formulations, et cetera. In addition, this alpha hydroxy acid is used in many skin care formulations because it is a great humectant and helps the skin to retain water.
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Who Should Avoid Using Lactic Acid?

by Cait Johnson

As long as it is used properly, lactic acid is appropriate for all skin types, but those with extremely sensitive skin should be cautious of higher strength lactic acid products, just like they should be wary of all concentrated skin care products. You will also want to avoid these higher strength products if you are using retinol.

Women, who plan to become pregnant, who are pregnant, or nursing should discuss the benefits and risks of using lactic acid with their doctor, because it is unclear whether lactic acid is passed on through breast milk.

Cleopatra's Milk Bath

Cleopatra was famous for her beautiful skin. She knew about the beautifying properties of milk; she took baths in it. Skin-softening, moisturizing, and filled with nutrients, milk has been a favorite beauty aid for a millennia.

This secret beauty formula could not be simpler. Add two to four cups of fresh milk or buttermilk to the bathwater as the tub is filling. Soak for a good 20 minutes. Gently rub your skin with a washcloth or loofah to slough off the dead skin. Rinse your body thoroughly after soaking. Caution: Very hot baths are not good for those with high blood pressure, and they can be draining for anyone. Skip this bath if you are allergic to milk or are lactose intolerant.
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