Lactobionic acid
Lactobionic Acid Manufacturer | Next-Gen PHA for Sensitive Skin (CAS: 96-82-2) Headline: Premium Lactobionic Acid Manufacturer | 98% Purity Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) (CAS: 96-82-2) Sub-info: Third-Generation Fruit Acid | High Hygroscopicity | Gentle Exfoliation USP: Non-Irritating "Smart" Peeling | Superior Moisture Lock (Humectant) | Ready Stock in Global Warehouses
Introduction

Lactobionic Acid (CAS: 96-82-2) is a Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) formed by the oxidation of lactose (milk sugar). Structurally, it consists of a galactose molecule attached to a gluconic acid molecule. As a "Third-Generation" hydroxy acid, it offers the exfoliating benefits of AHAs (like Glycolic Acid) but with a much larger molecular size, ensuring slower penetration and minimal irritation.
As a specialized B2B manufacturer, we produce High-Purity Lactobionic Acid Powder (≥98%). It is celebrated in the cosmeceutical industry not just as an exfoliant, but as a potent antioxidant and super-humectant, making it the ingredient of choice for sensitive skin formulations and anti-aging lines.
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Keywords:
lactobionic
polyhydroxy
manufacturer
Functions
Lactobionic Acid functions as a multi-tasking active ingredient:
1. Gentle Exfoliation (MOA):
Due to its large molecular weight (358.3 Da vs Glycolic Acid's 76 Da), Lactobionic Acid penetrates the stratum corneum gradually. It gently dissolves the desmosomes between dead skin cells without provoking the stinging or redness often associated with traditional AHAs, making it safe for rosacea-prone skin.
2. Super-Humectant Properties:
Each molecule contains eight hydroxyl groups (-OH), giving it exceptional water-binding capacity. It creates a breathable hydro-film on the skin surface, locking in moisture more effectively than Glycerin or Sorbitol.
3. Potent Antioxidant & Chelation:
Lactobionic Acid is a strong metal chelator (particularly Iron and Copper). By sequestering these metal ions, it inhibits the formation of hydroxyl radicals (Fenton reaction), protecting the skin from oxidative stress and MMP (Matrix Metalloproteinase) degradation.
4. Anti-Glycation & Barrier Repair:
It helps inhibit the formation of Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs), preserving collagen elasticity and preventing skin yellowing.

Applications
• Sensitive Skin Peels: Professional chemical peels that require no downtime.
• Pore Minimizing Serums: Known for its ability to clear keratin plugs and refine pores ("Pore Corset" effect).
• Anti-Aging Creams: Targets photoaging by preserving the dermal matrix.
• Organ Preservation (Pharma): Used in organ transplant solutions (like UW solution) due to its ability to suppress cell swelling and oxidative damage.

Flow Chart
Bio-Catalytic Oxidation Process:
1.Raw Material: Pharmaceutical grade Lactose (derived from milk).
2.Oxidation: Catalytic oxidation using specific enzymes or electrochemical methods to convert the aldehyde group to a carboxyl group.
3.Purification: Ion-exchange chromatography to remove residual lactose and catalysts.
4.Concentration: Vacuum evaporation.
5.Crystallization: Controlled cooling to form high-purity crystals.
6.Drying: Low-temperature drying (Lactobionic acid is hygroscopic).
7.Packaging: Double-lined PE bags in fiber drums with desiccant.
Quality Standard of Lactoferrin
Spec: Lactobionic Acid ≥98.0%
| Item | Specification | Result |
| Active Ingredient | Lactobionic Acid | 99.1% |
| Appearance | White to Off-white Crystalline Powder | Conforms |
| Solubility | Soluble in Water | Conforms |
| Melting Point | 113°C - 118°C | 115.5°C |
| pH (10% Solution) | 1.5 – 2.5 | 1.9 |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 2.0% | 0.8% |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤ 0.2% | 0.05% |
| Reducing Sugars | ≤ 0.5% | 0.1% |
| Heavy Metals | ≤ 10 ppm | < 5 ppm |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 1.0 ppm | 0.2 ppm |
| Microbiology | Total Plate Count ≤ 1,000 cfu/g | Conforms |
Method of Analysis of Lactoferrin
• Analytical Method: High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC).
• Validation: We use HPLC to differentiate Lactobionic Acid from residual Lactose and Gluconic Acid, ensuring the assay value represents the active acid content accurately.
Reference Chromatogram of Lactoferrin Reference Substance
(Description): The chromatogram displays a clean, dominant peak for Lactobionic Acid. The baseline is stable, and impurity peaks (such as unconverted lactose) are negligible, confirming the high conversion efficiency of our manufacturing process.
Stability and Safety
Stability Studies
• Shelf Life: 24 months.
• Hygroscopicity: Highly hygroscopic. Exposure to air can cause the powder to absorb moisture and clump.
• Long-term Stability: Tests at 25°C in sealed packaging show excellent stability.
• Storage: Must be stored in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry place. Desiccants are included in our standard packaging.
Safety & Handling (MSDS Summary)
• Classification: Irritant (Eye Irrit. 2). Acidic nature.
• Skin Safety: Non-irritating at cosmetic use concentrations (due to slow penetration).
• Handling: Wear gloves and goggles. Avoid inhaling dust.
• Buffering: Like all hydroxy acids, it should be buffered to a final pH of 3.5 - 4.5 in cosmetic formulas for optimal safety and efficacy.
Customer Comments
Product Developer, Australian Skincare Brand
2026.02.04
★★★★☆
Formulation Chemist, Korean OEM Factory
2026.02.04
★★★★☆
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FAQ
What makes Lactobionic Acid different from other acids?
It is a PHA (Polyhydroxy Acid). Unlike AHAs (small molecules, fast penetration, potential irritation), PHA is a large molecule. It works exclusively on the surface to exfoliate without irritation and attracts water like a sponge.
Can it be used with Retinol or Vitamin C?
Yes. Because it is gentle and hydrating, it pairs well with active ingredients like Retinol, mitigating the dryness they might cause.
How do you identify quality?
Quality is identified by Assay (≥98%), Color (White), and Low Reducing Sugars. High-quality Lactobionic Acid should dissolve clear and be free from yellowish impurities.
References
1.Grimes, P. E., et al. (2004). "The use of polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) in photoaged skin." Cutis.
2.Green, B. A., et al. (2009). "Clinical and cosmeceutical uses of hydroxyacids." Clinics in Dermatology.
3.Tasic-Kostov, M., et al. (2010). "Lactobionic acid as an antioxidant and moisturizing ingredient in cosmetic emulsions." Journal of Cosmetic Science.
4.Upadhye, K., et al. (2019). "Polyhydroxy Acids: The Next Generation of Alpha Hydroxy Acids." International Journal of Research in Cosmetic Science.
5.Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR). "Safety Assessment of Alpha Hydroxy Acids."
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