Gluconolactone (glucono delta-lactone) is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that gently exfoliates, hydrates, and provides antioxidant and mild moisturizing benefits. It is considered gentler than traditional alpha-hydroxy acids, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Mild stinging or tingling on application | Uncommon | Usually transient, more likely on compromised or sensitive skin |
Skin redness or irritation | Uncommon | Generally less than with AHAs due to larger molecular size and slower penetration |
Dryness or peeling | Rare | Associated with higher concentrations or frequent use |
Increased photosensitivity | Rare | Less pronounced than AHAs; sunscreen still advised |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | Isolated hypersensitivity reactions reported |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.