Rounds out an acid blend by softening its overall effect; works with soothing, hydrating actives.
Balancing · Strong evidence
Gluconolactone (PHA)
INCI: Gluconolactone · Polyhydroxy Acid, PHA
Gently exfoliatesHydratesAntioxidant
A next-generation polyhydroxy acid, exfoliates like an AHA but even gentler, with added hydration and antioxidant benefit.
What it is
Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA), often described as the gentle evolution of AHAs. Its larger molecule penetrates slowly and it also attracts water and offers mild antioxidant activity, so it resurfaces while hydrating, a favourite for sensitive skin that still wants renewal.
How it works
Exfoliates gently
It loosens surface cells for smoother, brighter skin, but does so slowly and gently, better tolerated than traditional AHAs.
Hydrates and protects
It is humectant and mildly antioxidant, cushioning the exfoliation so skin stays comfortable.
The PHA advantage
Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid, the gentle evolution of the AHA. Its molecule is larger still than mandelic, so it penetrates slowest of all and is the best tolerated, but it brings two extras a traditional acid lacks: it is a humectant, drawing and holding water as it works, and it offers mild antioxidant activity. The result is renewal that hydrates and protects rather than strips, which is why PHAs suit sensitive, reactive and barrier-compromised skin that still wants the benefits of exfoliation. In a blend, it softens the overall effect and cushions the stronger acids.
The evidence
PHAs like gluconolactone have good support as gentle, hydrating exfoliants well suited to sensitive and reactive skin.
Worth knowing
The gentle, hydrating member of the acid family, resurfacing with a built-in comfort margin.
Found in
Evidence tiers reflect the general weight of published cosmetic-science literature on this ingredient, not a claim about any individual SENSCERA product. Cosmetic products support the appearance and condition of skin and hair; they are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Individual results vary.