What is Lactobionic Acid?
Lactobionic Acid is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) made from lactose, the sugar in milk. Its molecules are large, which means it works more slowly and gently than smaller exfoliating acids such as glycolic acid.
It is used in skincare as a hydrator and antioxidant, and it has a mild exfoliating effect. Because it is typically made from milk sugar, it is usually not vegan.
Source
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Found in |
Lactobionic Acid (INCI name) |
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Origin |
Made from lactose (milk sugar) by oxidation |
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Also known as |
PHA, polyhydroxy acid |
Top features and benefits
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Attracts water and hydrates |
Acts as an antioxidant |
Mild exfoliating effect |
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Large molecule, slower penetration |
Tolerated well in one comparison study |
May help the look of photoaged skin (early research) |
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Suited to sensitive skin |
Often found in post-procedure and sensitive-skin products |
Works alongside other actives |
How Does It Work?
Lactobionic acid works in three main ways. It attracts water, so it acts as a humectant and helps skin feel hydrated. It also exfoliates mildly by loosening dead skin cells. And it has antioxidant activity: laboratory research shows that it can bind iron, which reduces the formation of harmful free radicals, and it has been reported to slow enzymes that break down collagen.
Because the molecules are large, they penetrate slowly, and this is thought to mean less irritation. In a 2010 study of 77 volunteers comparing lactobionic acid with glycolic acid, the lactobionic acid formulas caused no irritation or damage to the skin barrier.
It has been suggested for photoaged skin, but most of the support is laboratory and formulation work. Controlled human trials of its effects on sun-damaged skin are limited, so it is best seen as a gentle hydrator and antioxidant, not a proven anti-aging treatment.