Lactic Acid, an organic acid, is a colorless or yellowish, syrupy, water-soluble liquid with the molecular formula CH3CH(OH)COOH, usually prepared by fermentation of cornstarch molasses and potatoes. According to BlueQuark Research & Consulting, the Global Lactic Acid market is expected to witness a significant growth rate during the forecasted period. Factors like the growing popularity of over-the-counter personal care products containing Lactic Acid are due to their ability to cure hyperpigmentation and dull and uneven complexion by increasing cell turnover and reducing the appearance of lines and deep wrinkles estimated to drive the Global Lactic Acid market in the forecasted period. Further, the use of Lactic Acid for the food products like cheese, yogurt, fermented milk, fish, fruit, vegetable, pickled vegetables, and baked goods, as it regulates pH levels, enhances flavor, texture, and nutritional value, is estimated to drive the Global Lactic Acid market in the forecasted period. Furthermore, the use of Lactic Acid for Pharmaceuticals as an electrolyte in various parenteral or IV solutions to supplement bodily fluids or electrolytes, dialysis, surgical sutures, tablets, and controlled systems of drug delivery, as a valuable component in biomaterials like implants, has escalated the demand and is projected to drive the Global Lactic Acid market in the forecasted period. However, fluctuations in raw material prices, high initial investment costs involved, lack technology, and stringent government regulations are awaited to restrain the growth of the Global market in the forecast period.

Poly Lactic acid is a biodegradable polymer produced from Lactic Acid suitable for the manufacture of plastic film, bottles for one-time package use that generates 68% fewer greenhouse gases and contains no toxins, and biodegradable medical devices, including screws, pins, plates, and rods that are designed to biodegrade.

The Personal Care Industry is a vital consumer of Lactic Acid and is estimated to drive the Global Lactic Acid market. With the rise of unhealthy lifestyle habits such as hectic schedules, decreased sleep hours, unhealthy food habits, health conditions, pollution, environmental triggers, and exposure to the sun for long hours, the demand for personal care has escalated. The extensive use of Lactic Acid for personal care is primarily due to its ability to provide relief for various skin complaints by functioning as an exfoliator for dry and sensitive skin types, a skin lightener for hyperpigmentation, and decreasing age spots and acne scars, as well as a disinfectant for dry and bumpy skin. Lactic Acid is manufactured by fermentation in Lactobacillus and Streptococcus cultures. It's a low-cost, processed preservative. To obtain energy, the bacteria transform sugar and make lactic Acid. Lactic Acid aids in regulating pH levels and preventing microbial development, therefore increasing shelf life. Another driving factor is the raised use of anti-acne and anti-aging products. Lactic Acid has an anti-acne action, which is why it is used as a component in acne cream. Many people suffer from issues such as dry skin and wrinkles due to aging, which can be addressed using lactic acid-based lotions. It supports the removal of dead skin cells from the epidermis, or top layer of the skin, by promoting cell turnover. It can help to minimize the appearance of big pores while also removing dark spots and wrinkles. Lactic Acid and probiotic additives can help with sensitive skin. Furthermore, it is extensively utilized for its moisturizing property in many cosmetic items due to its capability to cure dry skin. The market for biodegradable polymers is one of the quickest developing lactic acid sectors, which supports the expansion of the polylactic acid (PLA) industry. According to Estee Lauder Companies, in the FY2022, its skincare segment net sales grew in every region, led by strong double-digit sales growth from La Mer and Clinique, and flourishment from both of them was driven by in-hero products that included dark spot correctors and wrinkle correcting serums. In addition, Lactic Acid, combined with Salicylic Acid, is another popular skincare ingredient in acne formulations, as it reduces acne by removing dead skin that can clog pores.

The North American region is poised to be the leader in the production and the subsequent consumption of Lactic Acid, with most of the consumption in countries like the US and Canada. With the increase in the use of lactic acid as a food additive, the demand for lactic acid in the Asia Pacific area is rapidly increasing. The food and beverage industry is witnessing consistent growth in the region. Packing is required for various products, and the growing concerns about hygiene, environment and food safety contribute to the demand for biodegradable packaging utilizing Polylactic Acid. In addition to packaging in segments like groceries, home entertainment, and household products, pharmaceuticals are also escalating the requirement for biodegradable polymers from Lactic Acid. Further, the region's growing awareness of natural and organic cosmetic products and preference for luxury personal care brands drive the region's Lactic Acid market. In the transportation and automotive sectors, several vehicle interior components, such as interior trim, under-the-hood components, and engine components, are manufactured using lightweight materials. The lightweight components minimize the weight of the vehicle and enhance performance. This has led to a growing demand for sustainable bioplastic materials to surge fuel efficiency and toughness, which, in turn, will drive the demand for PLA. Furthermore, the country is home to some of the biggest pharma companies' headquarters. Americans have one of the most advanced pharmaceutical systems globally, and biodegradable medical devices have ample growth opportunities. The pharmaceutical sector has been a key component in the growth of this market over the past few years on the report of the rising application of lactic Acid in drug manufacturing and as an electrolyte in intravenous solutions utilized for supplementing the required bodily fluids. Properties of lactic Acids, such as metal sequestration, pH regulator, effectiveness in being a natural body constituent, and chiral intermediate in pharmaceutical products, are expected to boost the growth of the pharmaceutical industry. Factors like these have made North America a lucrative region for growth in the polylactic Acid market.

Some of the market players are DuPont, Vigon International, Cargill, Inc, Futerro SA, Corbion NV, BASF SE, and Teijin Limited, among others.

In September 2021, ADM and LG Chem joined forces to produce Lactic Acid, PLA, in the USA.

In January 2021, Corbion increased its capacity for producing Lactic Acid in North America by around 40% to meet the rising demand for natural ingredients in multiple industries.

Global Lactic Acid Market report provides deep insight into the market's current and future state across various regions. The study comprehensively analyses the Lactic Acid market by segmenting based on the Source (Natural, Synthetic), Type (L-lactate, D-lactate), Raw materials (Sugarcane, Corn, Yeast, Others), End-User Industry (Personal Care, Food and Beverage, Pharmaceuticals, Biopolymers, Others) and Geography (Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle-East and Africa). The report examines the market drivers and restraints and the impact of Covid-19 on market growth in detail. The study covers and includes emerging market trends, developments, opportunities, and challenges in the industry. This report also covers extensively researched competitive landscape sections with prominent companies and profiles, including their market shares and projects.