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Skincare Ingredient

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Lactobionic Acid

In Skincare: Is Lactobionic Acid Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects

Safety (overall safety)
2/5 — Low risk
Irritancy (skin irritation)
2/5 — Low risk

Quick Insights

At a glance

  • 01

    Lactobionic acid is a polyhydroxy acid with a chemical structure similar to alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs).

  • 02

    Due to its slower penetration into the skin, lactobionic acid is considered a gentler exfoliating ingredient.

  • 03

    Lactobionic acid provides exfoliation while simultaneously acting as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin.

  • 04

    Lactobionic acid exhibits antioxidant properties.

Key Benefits

What Lactobionic Acid does for your skin

3 benefits
Smooths Bumpy Skin
Evens Skin Tone
Hydration

Overview

Ingredient Profile

Lactobionic acid is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that gently exfoliates the skin, similar in function to alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Its larger molecular size limits penetration compared to AHAs, minimizing the risk of irritation. This ingredient also acts as an antioxidant by binding heavy metals and may improve skin surface strength, while lower concentrations can help protect against enzymes that degrade supportive elements and contribute to a more even skin tone.
Classifications
Exfoliant
pH Adjuster/Stabilizer

Role of Lactobionic Acid

Active Cosmetic Mechanisms

BUFFERING

pH Stabilizer

Maintains stable pH levels in products

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Buffering systems resist pH changes through weak acid-conjugate base pairs (citric acid/sodium citrate, lactic acid/sodium lactate, phosphate salts) that operate within specific pH ranges based on their pKa values. The mechanism follows the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation, with buffer components neutralizing added H⁺ or OH⁻ ions. Proper buffering prevents pH drift and maintains efficacy.

Products

containing Lactobionic Acid

374 formulations
Manuka Tree Purifying Normalising Cleasing Gel
Manuka Tree Purifying Normalising Cleasing Gel
Ziaja · cleanser
Resurfacing Glycolic Wash
Resurfacing Glycolic Wash
Exuviance · cleanser
E.X.F.O Cleanse
E.X.F.O Cleanse
pH formula · cleanser

References

Scientific sources

[1]

International Journal of Molecular Sciences, January 2021, pages 1–16

[2]

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, December 2019, pages 1,705–1,710

[3]

International Journal of Dermatology, March 2019, pages 374–379

[4]

International Journal of Cosmetic Science, October 2012, pages 424–434

[5]

The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, May 2012, pages 32–40

[6]

Dermatology Research and Practice, May 2021, pages 1–6

[7]

Cutis, February 2004, pages 3–13

Semantic Analysis

Similar Ingredients

Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lactobionic Acid — common questions

What is Lactobionic Acid in skincare?

Lactobionic Acid is a skincare ingredient commonly used in cosmetic formulations.

What does Lactobionic Acid do? / Functions of Lactobionic Acid?

Common functions: BUFFERING.

What is the comedogenic rating of Lactobionic Acid? / Is Lactobionic Acid comedogenic?

The comedogenic rating of Lactobionic Acid has not been established in our database.

Does it clog pores?
No Rating Available

Whether Lactobionic Acid clogs pores depends on the formulation and concentration.

Is Lactobionic Acid safe for skin?
2 2/5 — Low risk

Lactobionic Acid has a safety rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types.

Is Lactobionic Acid good for sensitive skin?
2 2/5 — Low risk

Lactobionic Acid has an irritancy rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally well-tolerated.

What are the side effects of Lactobionic Acid in skincare?

Lactobionic Acid is generally well-tolerated.

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