exfoliant

Gluconolactone (PHA) · 글루코노락톤

INCI: Gluconolactone

Also known as: PHA · Polyhydroxy Acid · 폴리하이드록시산

Updated May 2026. Based on public cosmetic-science references (INCI Decoder, CosIng EU, EWG Skin Deep, Paula's Choice) plus Korean product catalog mapping. Editorial summary — not regulatory or medical advice.

What it is

Gluconolactone is a PHA — a larger-molecule exfoliant that operates more on the surface and tends to be gentler than AHA/BHA. It also has humectant character, attracting water as it exfoliates. K-beauty positions PHA as the “sensitive-skin-friendly acid,” often combined with soothing extracts.

한국어 설명

PHA(폴리하이드록시산)인 글루코노락톤은 AHA/BHA보다 분자가 커서 표면 위주로 작용하고 자극이 낮은 편이다. 보습 성질도 있어 각질 정돈과 동시에 수분 유지를 돕는다. K-뷰티에서는 “민감 피부용 산” 포지션으로 진정 추출물과 조합되어 사용된다.

Best for

  • sensitive skin
  • mild texture concerns
  • dehydrated skin

Pairs well with

  • Hyaluronic Acid
  • Niacinamide
  • Centella Asiatica

Products with Gluconolactone (PHA) (192)

Catalog matches ranked by data completeness and reviews.

Related answer guides

External references

We do not republish proprietary ingredient databases. Public references above are good starting points for verification — treat this page's structured description as our editorial summary, not a primary regulatory source.

Educational summary for skincare shoppers. Not medical advice. For pregnancy, treatment-related, or condition-specific decisions, consult a qualified clinician.