According to cosmetic surgeon and aesthetician Dr Karuna Malhotra, the lactic acid in milk gently exfoliates the skin, while the fats and proteins hydrate it. Here are some of the benefits of bathing in milk for your skin.
1. Exfoliate
The lactic acid in milk can help gently exfoliate the skin by removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover, leaving the skin's surface smooth. This natural exfoliation process can help reduce rough skin and even out skin tone.
2. Moisturize your skin
Milk, especially whole milk, is rich in fats and proteins that can help deeply moisturize and nourish the skin. The fats can create a barrier on the skin that helps retain moisture and prevent water loss through the skin. The proteins and vitamins in milk (such as vitamins A, D, and B12) can help restore and maintain skin hydration levels, leaving skin feeling softer and smoother after a bath.
3. Soothes skin
Bathing in milk helps soothe irritated or inflamed skin. Bathing in milk also helps reduce redness in people with sunburn.
4. Soften skin
According to research published in the journal Molecules, the lactic acid in milk speeds up cell turnover, which can help promote healthy, smooth skin. Regular milk baths can improve skin texture and leave it feeling soft.
5. Skin lightening
Milk baths are gentle exfoliants and can improve skin tone, helping to give a brighter and more even complexion, says Dr Karuna Malhotra.
6. Anti-aging
According to research published in the journal Molecules, milk has a smoothing, soothing, and anti-aging effect on the skin. The exfoliating properties of milk have an anti-aging effect by promoting cell regeneration and stimulating the production of collagen, a protein needed to keep skin firm.
