Gluconolactone
What Is Gluconolactone and Why Is It in Skincare?
Because its molecules are larger than those of traditional AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), gluconolactone works primarily on the skin's surface, making it particularly well suited to sensitive skin or skin that commonly reacts to products or ingredients.
Gluconolactone is an organic compound derived from gluconic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in honey, fruit, and the human body. In chemistry, it is classified as a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) and has a larger molecular size relative to AHAs and BHAs.
Why is Gluconolactone important?
As it removes dead skin cells, gluconolactone also attracts moisture to the skin, helping to support a smooth complexion.
This is chemical exfoliation, meaning no friction, no mechanical force, no scrubbing. That's because the acid does the work, loosening dead cells at the surface so they shed the way the skin naturally intends, just more efficiently and consistently.
Meanwhile, its antioxidant properties help defend against environmental stress, while ongoing support for the skin barrier reduces moisture loss.
The takeaway:
Gluconolactone is a gentle exfoliant that smooths skin texture and effectively supports hydration at the level of the skin barrier.
Academic References
- Grimes PE, Green BA, Wildnauer RH, Edison BL. The use of polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) in photoaged skin. Cutis. 2004 Feb;73(2 Suppl):3-13. PMID: 15002656.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15002656/
- Jarząbek-Perz S, Dziedzic M, Rotsztejn H, Kołodziejczak A. Evaluation of the effects of 10% and 30% gluconolactone chemical peel on sebum, pH, and TEWL. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2023 Dec;22(12):3305-3312. doi: 10.1111/jocd.15864. Epub 2023 Jun 19. PMID: 37335807.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37335807/
- Bernstein EF, Brown DB, Schwartz MD, Kaidbey K, Ksenzenko SM. The polyhydroxy acid gluconolactone protects against ultraviolet radiation in an in vitro model of cutaneous photoaging. Dermatol Surg. 2004 Feb;30(2 Pt 1):189-95; discussion 196. doi: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.2004.30060.x. PMID: 14756648. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14756648/