Last verified: 17 days ago
Gluconolactone
Also known as: GDL, glucono delta-lactone, glucono-δ-lactone, polyhydroxy acid, PHA
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Gentle skin acid that reduces redness, fights acne, and moisturizes with less irritation than glycolic acid.
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What it does
Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) — a gentler cousin of the alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid — used primarily in topical skincare. Applied to skin, it exfoliates dead cells,...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose for oral use; topical concentrations of 5–14% used in studies
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Found in
What the Science Says
Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) — a gentler cousin of the alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid — used primarily in topical skincare. Applied to skin, it exfoliates dead cells, improves moisture retention, and strengthens the skin's protective barrier. Clinical studies show it reduces acne lesions comparably to benzoyl peroxide, calms redness in rosacea, and delivers anti-aging benefits similar to glycolic acid — all with significantly less stinging and irritation.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to work better than glycolic acid for anti-aging — results are roughly equal, not superior. No evidence it works as an oral supplement for skin health. No proven cognitive or energy benefits in humans despite appearing in some energy drinks. Won't replace prescription treatments for moderate-to-severe acne or rosacea.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Reduces acne lesions comparably to benzoyl peroxide with fewer side effects.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: 14% topical solution
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Strengthens the skin's protective barrier and reduces irritation after chemical exposure.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: 8% topical cream
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Improves signs of skin aging — wrinkles, texture, and firmness — as effectively as glycolic acid.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: Topical regimen used twice daily for 12 weeks
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Reduces mild facial redness from rosacea after 30 days of daily use.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 5% topical serum
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown for oral use. Topically, it functions at the skin surface level; no absorption data provided in the studies.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Animal study at high oral doses (84 mg/kg) showed neurobehavioral changes — oral safety in humans is not established from the provided evidence
- When used as a preservative blend (gluconolactone + sodium benzoate), effects on skin collagen and fibroblasts require monitoring
- IPL phototherapy outperformed topical gluconolactone for overall facial appearance in rosacea — it is not a substitute for medical procedures
- Often combined with other active ingredients in studies, making it hard to isolate gluconolactone's individual contribution
Products Containing Gluconolactone
See how Gluconolactone is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Gluconolactone do?
Gentle skin acid that reduces redness, fights acne, and moisturizes with less irritation than glycolic acid.
What is the effective dose of Gluconolactone?
No established dose for oral use; topical concentrations of 5–14% used in studies
Is Gluconolactone safe?
Animal study at high oral doses (84 mg/kg) showed neurobehavioral changes — oral safety in humans is not established from the provided evidence
What doesn't Gluconolactone do?
Not proven to work better than glycolic acid for anti-aging — results are roughly equal, not superior.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25