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What is "Gluconolactone" and what is its utility?

Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid, or PHA, renowned for its ability to delay the signs of ageing such as wrinkles and fine lines. It is also known for its moisturising benefits on the skin. Thus, this ingredient is a valuable ally for dry and mature skin. It also has benefits for the hair. The following question arises: what is "Gluconolactone" and what is its utility? Let's focus.

Summary

Gluconolactone: What is it?
Gluconolactone: What is its purpose?
Gluconolactone: In which skincare products can it be found?

Published November 16, 2021, updated on February 3, 2024, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 4 min read

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Gluconolactone: What is it?

Also known as glucono-delta-lactone, gluconolactone is an organic acid. It is used both as a functional ingredient in skincare and as a food additive under the name E575. You can find it in honey, royal jelly, fruit juices, or even wine.

Once mixed with water, the gluconolactone directly transforms into gluconic acid. This active ingredient presents itself in the form of a white crystalline powder.

Gluconolactone is composed of a lactonic core. This core releases gluconic acid when it undergoes hydrolytic action from the skin's moisture. This acid imparts a spicy flavour to foods such as canned meats and cheeses, and also extends their shelf life. Thanks to its multiple hydroxyl groups, gluconolactone has moisturising and hygroscopic properties. However, it is less commonly used than other food acidifiers such as malic acid, citric acid, and fumaric acid.

Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA). PHAs and AHAs have similar effects on the skin. However, PHAs have the advantage of not causing irritation. Thus, gluconolactone is a friend to sensitive skin that tends to redden easily.

Gluconolactone: What is its purpose?

The functions of gluconolactone are as follows:

It maintains the skin in good condition;
It reacts and forms complexes with metallic ions that can impact the stability and appearance of skincare products;
It gently removes dead skin cells, resulting in a uniform and smooth complexion;
It restores the damaged skin barrier;
It increases the thickness of the skin;
It diminishes wrinkles and fine lines;
It exfoliates the skin without increasing its sensitivity to the sun;
It stimulates skin renewal;
It adjusts the pH of solutions;
It enhances the skin's hydration barrier as well as its resilience;
It repairs dry and damaged hair.

Gluconolactone can be used against free radicals and harmful oxidation reactions. This involves:

Of a chelating agent;
Of a skin care agent.

This ingredient is used as:

Acidity regulator;
Solvent;
Humectant agent.

Gluconolactone is suitable for sensitive skin. It can even be used on skin prone to rosacea.

Gluconolactone: In which skincare products can it be found?

Gluconolactone is present in:

The conditioners;
Facial scrubs;
Micellar waters;
Facial cleansing gels;
Some facial serums.

Our exfoliating cleansing gel with PHA and aloe vera contains gluconolactone. It is used to unclog pores, even out skin tone, and smooth the skin's texture. We can also find it in the peeling mask and the anti-mark serum.