Lactobionic Acid Powder — PHA Exfoliant & Antioxidant
Lactobionic Acid is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) derived from the oxidation of lactose. As a second-generation acid exfoliant, it offers the keratolytic and skin-renewing benefits of traditional AHAs — such as glycolic and lactic acid — while being significantly gentler, making it the preferred choice for sensitive, reactive, rosacea-prone, and compromised skin that cannot tolerate conventional acid exfoliants.
Unlike AHAs, Lactobionic Acid has a large molecular size that limits deep skin penetration, resulting in surface-level exfoliation with minimal irritation potential. It also functions as a potent antioxidant and humectant, chelating metal ions that catalyze free radical damage and attracting moisture to the skin — making it a multifunctional active that exfoliates, protects, and hydrates simultaneously.
Professional cosmetic ingredient — not a finished product.
PHA vs. AHA — Why Formulators Choose Lactobionic Acid
|
Lactobionic Acid (PHA) |
Glycolic Acid (AHA) |
Lactic Acid (AHA) |
| Molecular size |
Large — limited penetration |
Small — deep penetration |
Medium penetration |
| Irritation potential |
Very low — sensitive skin safe |
High |
Moderate |
| Exfoliation |
Gentle surface exfoliation |
Strong |
Moderate |
| Antioxidant activity |
Yes — chelates metal ions |
No |
No |
| Humectant activity |
Yes — attracts moisture |
Minimal |
Mild |
| Typical usage rate |
2–10% |
5–15% |
5–12% |
Key Benefits
-
Gentle exfoliation — promotes cell turnover and surface renewal without the irritation associated with AHAs; suitable for daily use in sensitive skin formulations
-
Antioxidant & chelating activity — chelates iron and copper ions that catalyze free radical chain reactions; reduces oxidative stress and metal ion-induced skin damage
-
Humectant & hydration — attracts and retains moisture in the skin; improves skin hydration and plumpness alongside exfoliation
-
Skin tone & texture improvement — reduces the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture, and dullness through gentle, sustained exfoliation
-
Sensitive skin compatible — clinically studied for use in rosacea, atopic dermatitis, and post-procedure skin; does not disrupt the skin barrier at effective concentrations
-
Collagen support — stimulates fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis; contributes to improved skin firmness over time
How to Use
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Incorporation: Dissolve in the water phase with gentle stirring. Fully water-soluble; no heat required
-
Recommended Usage Rate: 2–10% in finished formulations (3–5% typical for daily-use serums and toners; up to 10% for treatment products)
-
Solubility: Freely water-soluble
-
pH note: Refer to your supplier’s CoA/TDS for confirmed pH of raw material and recommended finished formula pH range
-
Processing temperature: Can be added at room temperature or warm water phase; avoid excessive heat
Formulation Details
| INCI Name |
Lactobionic Acid |
| CAS Number |
96-82-2 |
| Acid Class |
Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) |
| Appearance |
White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Solubility |
Freely water-soluble |
| Recommended Usage Rate |
2–10% (3–5% typical) |
| Incorporation Phase |
Water phase |
| pH & Shelf Life |
Refer to supplier CoA/TDS |
| Grade |
Cosmetic Grade — External Use Only |
Pairings
All products sold are cosmetic grade. For external use only. Intended for cosmetic and personal care formulations.