Lactobionic Acid
Polyhydroxy acid (PHA) with antioxidant properties. Chelates iron ions, preventing oxidative stress. Its large molecule provides gentle exfoliation without irritation.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Small clinical studies show moisturizing and exfoliating effects with better tolerability than AHAs. Antioxidant properties (iron chelation) are a unique advantage among acids. No independent large RCTs.
- Green BA et al. Clin Dermatol. 2009;27(5):495-501. PMID 19695482
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Sensitive, Dry, Normal, Combination
About this ingredient
Lactobionic Acid is a second-generation polyhydroxy acid (PHA). It consists of galactose and gluconic acid. The molecule is 5× larger than glycolic acid, so it penetrates the stratum corneum slower and gentler. Mechanism. Dissolves desmosomal links between corneocytes – mild exfoliation. Chelates iron and copper ions, reducing lipid peroxidation (Green 2009). Humectant – retains stratum corneum water better than gluconolactone. Where applied. Anti-aging serums and toners (2–10%), post-procedure products, sensitive-skin and rosacea formulations. Brands include NeoStrata PHA Facial Cleanser, Exuviance Hydrate + Defend, Spanish Sesderma Acglicolic Mild. Evidence base. An RCT in 60 women (Edison 2004) showed texture, fine line and hydration improvement over 12 weeks with 8% lactobionic acid, comparable to 8% glycolic but without irritation. In rosacea patients tolerated significantly better than AHA (Grimes 2004). Safety. CIR confirmed safety up to 10%. Does not photosensitize (unlike AHA), but SPF 30+ is recommended based on general exfoliation principles. Irritation in under 5% of cases. Controversy. AHA marketers position PHA as a 'safe analog of glycolic' – comparative studies show lactobionic is gentler but effect develops slower (12 weeks vs 8 for glycolic). Pregnancy – use with caution. Topical PHAs at cosmetic concentrations show almost no systemic absorption, but SEGO 2023 and AAD 2024 classify as 'probably safe, direct data limited'. Lactation – safe, do not apply on breast before feeding. Particularly suitable for. Rosacea, perioral dermatitis, sensitive skin, post-procedure period, darker phototypes (PIH risk lower than glycolic acid).
Frequently asked questions
Is Lactobionic Acid safe during pregnancy?
Lactobionic Acid should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Lactobionic Acid for?
Lactobionic Acid suits: sensitive, dry, normal, combination.
What is Lactobionic Acid and what does it do in cosmetics?
Polyhydroxy acid (PHA) with antioxidant properties.
What's the INCI name for Lactobionic Acid?
The INCI name is Lactobionic Acid.
See Lactobionic Acid in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
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