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Lactobionic Acid

INCI: Lactobionic Acid
Also known as: PHA, Bionic acid
ExfoliantsexfoliantbiotechModerate evidencePregnancy safe
79
Skinlumis Rating
Comedogenic
0/5
Irritancy
0/5
Best applied
Both
Effective range
4%–8%
How It Works

A bionic acid (lactose + gluconic acid) with the largest PHA molecule. Provides maximum hydration and minimum irritation among the PHA family.

Massive molecular size restricts penetration to upper stratum corneum. Multiple hydroxyls bind water 10× more than glycerin.

pH Range
3.5–5.0
Benefits
  • Hydrates as it exfoliates
  • Ultra-gentle
  • Anti-glycation
  • Suitable for organ-transplant skin
Proven For

What the evidence supports.

Sensitive agingDehydrated mature skin
Best For
  • Sensitive
  • Dry
  • Mature
Avoid If

No notable contraindications reported.

Layering Order
3/10

Apply early in routine, toner/essence step.

Max Safe Concentration
8%

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 4%–8%

Seasonal Use

Year-round.

Nutrition Connection

Lactose-derived.

Skin Signals When You Need It

No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.

For Estheticians & Professionals

Anti-glycation evidence makes it a premium choice for mature 'sugar sag' skin.

Clinical Evidence

The research behind Lactobionic Acid.

4 peer-reviewed studies

Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.

Systematic Review
Oral collagen peptides at 2.5-10g daily significantly improved skin elasticity and reduced wrinkle depth after 8-12 weeks across 11 RCTs.
Choi FD, Sung CT, Juhasz MLW, Mesinkovska NA
Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2019
View Study →
Systematic Review
Estrogen deficiency following menopause causes 30% reduction in skin collagen within the first 5 years.
Wilkinson HN, Hardman MJ
Maturitas, 2017
View Study →
Systematic Review
Chronic psychological stress elevates cortisol, accelerating skin aging through collagen degradation and barrier disruption.
Chen Y, Lyga J
Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
View Study →
Randomized Controlled Trial
Daily sunscreen use reduced photoaging markers by 24% over 4.5 years compared to discretionary use.
Hughes MCB, Williams GM, Baker P, Green AC
Annals of Internal Medicine, 2013
View Study →
Pairs Well With
NiacinamideHyaluronic AcidCeramide NP
Conflicts With

No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.

Your Skin Compatibility

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