Ingredient decoder

Gluconolactone: is it comedogenic? What it does in skincare

INCI name: Gluconolactone

Acne verdict Acne helper

Helps acne-prone skin

  • ComedogenicNo published rating
  • IrritancyNo published rating

What it does

Gentle PHA exfoliant that also hydrates.

  • Exfoliant
  • Chelating
  • Skin conditioning

Gluconolactone in plain English

Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA), a gentler cousin of AHAs. Its large molecule exfoliates slowly at the surface while also attracting moisture, so it is less likely to sting. A study found a gluconolactone lotion helped acne with fewer side effects than benzoyl peroxide. It suits sensitive, acne-prone skin.

Is gluconolactone bad for acne?

No. Gluconolactone is on the helpful side for acne-prone skin and is not known to clog pores. Our checker groups it with the exfoliant ingredients. Like most acne actives, it can cause dryness or irritation at first, so start slowly.

Clean routine and still breaking out? The cause may be internal. See what is driving it

Also called

  • Gluconolactone
  • Glucono delta lactone
  • Glucono-delta-lactone
  • GDL

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Frequently asked questions

Is gluconolactone comedogenic?

There is no published comedogenic rating for gluconolactone, and it is not known to clog pores. It is used in products made for acne-prone skin.

What does gluconolactone do in skincare?

In short: gentle PHA exfoliant that also hydrates. In formulas it is used for chelating and skin conditioning.

What else is gluconolactone called on ingredient labels?

On ingredient lists, gluconolactone can also appear as Glucono delta lactone, Glucono-delta-lactone or GDL.

Sources