Recently alpha hydroxy and polyhydroxy acids (AHA and PHA) are receiving much attention due to their excellent moisturizing and antioxidant properties. These compounds are very useful in both cosmetic and dermatological treatments.

The present study assessed the moisturizing properties of lactobionic and lactic acids based on available literature.

It observed that:

•  Alpha AHA and PHA can bind a significant amount of water and function as powerful antioxidants. They achieve this by inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases and exhibiting strong chelating properties.
•  Lactic acid (LAC) and lactobionic acid (LA) maintain the integrity of the epidermal barrier and, thus, are suitable for use on sensitive skin types, including couperose skin.

Source: Algiert-ZieliÅ„ska B, Mucha P, Rotsztejn H. Lactic and lactobionic acids as typically moisturizing compounds. Int J Dermatol. 2019;58(3):374-9.