A polyhydroxy acid (PHA), skin conditioning and chelating agent. PHAs function similarly to alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) as exfoliants but are considered less sensitizing due to having a larger molecular structure. It has been shown to be well tolerated by sensitive skin, and protects collagen from breakdown. PHAs have more hydroxyl groups, allowing them to act as humectants. As a chelating agent, it can help to stabilize a formula and boost preservative efficacy.
“Gluconolactone is beautifully tolerated by sensitive skin. I find it works best in combination with AHAs and BHAs, creating a triple action exfoliation throughout the skin. Gluconolactone is a large, gentle molecule that gently exfoliates the surface layer of the skin. Glycolic acid is a much smaller cousin, so it tends to dive deeper into the skin, while salicylic acid is lipophilic, diving into the sebum-rich pores.”
- Dr. Whitney Bowe, Board-Certified Dermatologist, Scientist, Founder
