Ingredients

Gluconolactone

Written by Reviewed by the SYNC editorial team Published Last reviewed Editorial standards

Gluconolactone — a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) derived from glucose that gently exfoliates the skin's surface while attracting and holding water. Its larger molecular size means it penetrates more slowly than traditional alpha-hydroxy acids, making it a milder option often chosen for sensitive or reactive skin.

Key points

  • Gluconolactone is classified as a polyhydroxy acid, a next-generation relative of alpha-hydroxy acids like glycolic and lactic acid.
  • Its larger molecular structure limits deep penetration, which is associated with less stinging and irritation than smaller AHAs.
  • It also acts as a humectant, binding moisture to help support the skin barrier while it exfoliates.
  • Gluconolactone offers mild antioxidant activity and is frequently paired with other PHAs such as lactobionic acid.

Frequently asked

Is gluconolactone suitable for sensitive skin?

Its large molecular size slows penetration and generally causes less irritation than glycolic or lactic acid, which is why it is often selected for sensitive or easily reactive skin. As with any exfoliant, patch testing first is a sensible precaution.

Does gluconolactone increase sun sensitivity?

Exfoliating acids can make skin more responsive to UV light, so daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is recommended when using gluconolactone. Some data suggest PHAs are gentler in this respect than traditional AHAs, but sun protection is still advised.

Related topics

This is a foundational entry in the SYNC Skin Encyclopedia and is expanded over time. Educational information only — not medical advice.

Encyclopedia

Further reading

This entry was written and checked against the sources below. They are published by clinical and scientific bodies, they are listed most readable first, and each one opens in a new tab. They are background for the whole entry rather than footnotes to individual sentences.

  1. Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. Efficacy and safety of a new peeling formulated with a pool of PHAs for the treatment of all skin types, even sensitive PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. Split‐face evaluation: Gluconolactone plus oxybrasion versus gluconolactone plus microneedling. The effects on skin parameters PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. Comparison of Efficacy and Willingness to a 5% Gluconolactone‐Based Topical Serum and Intense Pulsed Light in Mild Erythema of Rosacea: A Paired Control Study PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. A polyhydroxy acid skin care regimen provides antiaging effects comparable to an alpha-hydroxyacid regimen PubMed Peer-reviewed (abstract) pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  6. Corneometric evaluation of skin moisture after application of 10% and 30% gluconolactone PubMed Peer-reviewed (abstract) pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

SYNC does not publish medical advice. Nothing here replaces a consultation with a doctor or a pharmacist about your own skin.