Lactobionic Acid

Also known as: Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA)

INCI: Lactobionic Acid | Function: Exfoliant, Humectant, Antioxidant | Type: Exfoliant

What Is Lactobionic Acid?

Lactobionic Acid is a Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) — the gentlest chemical exfoliant class. Large molecular size means surface-only exfoliation with minimal irritation. Simultaneously functions as humectant and antioxidant (iron chelation). Inhibits MMP enzymes that degrade collagen. Ideal for sensitive, rosacea, and post-procedure skin. No photosensitivity.

Key Skin Benefits

+ Ultra-gentle exfoliation — suitable for most sensitive skin
+ Powerful humectant — water-binding comparable to glycerin
+ Antioxidant — chelates iron, reduces oxidative damage
+ Inhibits collagen-degrading MMP enzymes
+ No photosensitivity — safe for daytime use

Pros

+ + Gentlest chemical exfoliant
+ + Multi-functional — exfoliates + hydrates + antioxidant
+ + No sun sensitivity (unique among exfoliants)
+ + Suitable for compromised skin
+ + Can use daily unlike strong AHAs

Cons

− − Very mild — slower results than AHAs
− − May not suffice for thick/oily skin
− − Higher cost than glycolic/lactic
− − Can feel tacky in high concentrations

Specifications

Property	Value
Usage Areas	Face, Eye, Body
Product Type	Leave-On, Rinse-Off
Source	Milk sugar oxidation
Natural Level	Natural-derived

Safety Ratings

Metric	Rating
Skin Sensitivity	1/5
Comedogenic Rating	0/5
EWG Score	1/10

Regional Regulatory Limits

Region	Leave-on %	Rinse-off %	Status
EU (CosIng)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
Japan (MHLW)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
ASEAN	No limit	No limit	Allowed
China (NMPA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed

Typical Usage % by Product Type

Product Type	Typical %
Toner	2 - 8%
Serum	5 - 10%
Moisturizer	2 - 5%
Eye Cream	2 - 4%

References

Green BA et al. — PHAs in clinical skincare (2018). PMID: 29908581
Grimes PE et al. — PHAs for ethnic skin. Cutis (2004). PMID: 14960088
EWG Skin Deep — score 1/10

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