What concentration of Gluconolactone is effective?

Typical effective concentrations of Gluconolactone are Typically 4–15% in OTC leave-on products, up to 30% in professional-strength treatments. An 8% concentration was used in published clinical sun-sensitivity studies..

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Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams

Formula IngredientPolyhydroxy Acid

Gluconolactone

Q: Can Gluconolactone cause skin irritation?

Gluconolactone has a low irritation risk. Gluconolactone is widely considered one of the gentlest chemical exfoliants available. Clinical studies show it produces significantly less stinging, burning, and redness than AHAs at equivalent concentrations, making it suitable for sensitive, rosacea-prone, and post-procedure skin. No EU CosIng Annex II or III restrictions apply.

Q: Is Gluconolactone safe to use during pregnancy?

Gluconolactone is rated "caution" for pregnancy use. Gluconolactone is a PHA with minimal systemic absorption due to its large molecular size, making it generally considered lower risk than AHAs or retinoids during pregnancy. It is also approved as a food additive (E575), suggesting low systemic toxicity. However, no dedicated pregnancy safety studies exist for topical gluconolactone, and neither EWG Skin Deep, MotherToBaby, nor FDA have issued specific guidance for PHAs. Low-concentration leave-on products are likely low risk, but consulting a healthcare provider before use is advised — particularly for high-concentration treatments.

Q: Does Gluconolactone increase sun sensitivity?

Gluconolactone has a no sun sensitivity risk. Unlike AHAs such as glycolic acid, clinical studies have demonstrated that gluconolactone does not increase photosensitivity or sunburn cell formation after UV exposure. Daily SPF use is still recommended as good practice when using any exfoliant, but gluconolactone does not carry the same photosensitisation risk as traditional AHAs.

Q: What skin types is Gluconolactone suitable for?

Gluconolactone is suitable for sensitive, rosacea-prone, dry, acne-prone, hyperpigmentation, post-procedure, mature skin.

INCI: Gluconolactone

Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) and the lactone form of gluconic acid, derived from glucose. It functions as a gentle exfoliant with a larger molecular size than AHAs such as glycolic acid, meaning it penetrates skin more slowly and causes significantly less irritation. It also acts as a humectant, antioxidant, and chelating agent, providing moisturising and anti-ageing benefits alongside exfoliation.

What does this do in a formula?

gentle exfoliation, anti-ageing, moisturisation, antioxidant protection, skin barrier support, chelation, brightening, smoothing texture

Is Gluconolactone safe? Key considerations

Can Gluconolactone cause irritation?

Low Risk

Gluconolactone is widely considered one of the gentlest chemical exfoliants available. Clinical studies show it produces significantly less stinging, burning, and redness than AHAs at equivalent concentrations, making it suitable for sensitive, rosacea-prone, and post-procedure skin. No EU CosIng Annex II or III restrictions apply.

Does Gluconolactone increase sun sensitivity?

No Risk

Unlike AHAs such as glycolic acid, clinical studies have demonstrated that gluconolactone does not increase photosensitivity or sunburn cell formation after UV exposure. Daily SPF use is still recommended as good practice when using any exfoliant, but gluconolactone does not carry the same photosensitisation risk as traditional AHAs.

Is Gluconolactone safe during pregnancy?

Caution

Gluconolactone is a PHA with minimal systemic absorption due to its large molecular size, making it generally considered lower risk than AHAs or retinoids during pregnancy. It is also approved as a food additive (E575), suggesting low systemic toxicity. However, no dedicated pregnancy safety studies exist for topical gluconolactone, and neither EWG Skin Deep, MotherToBaby, nor FDA have issued specific guidance for PHAs. Low-concentration leave-on products are likely low risk, but consulting a healthcare provider before use is advised — particularly for high-concentration treatments.

How does Gluconolactone work?

Individuals with known allergy to gluconolactone or related PHAs should review the considerations above before use.

Which products contain Gluconolactone?

Shop products that contain Gluconolactone

Gluconolactone

What does this do in a formula?

Is Gluconolactone safe? Key considerations

Can Gluconolactone cause irritation?

Does Gluconolactone increase sun sensitivity?

Is Gluconolactone safe during pregnancy?

How does Gluconolactone work?

Which products contain Gluconolactone?

PHA Body Water Cream

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Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm

PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum