Is Gluconolactone safe during pregnancy?
A gentle polyhydroxy acid (PHA). Low-strength products are likely fine; no pregnancy studies on skin use.
PregnancyUse with care
BreastfeedingUse with care
EvidenceLimited
What the sources say
No pregnancy or breastfeeding studies on topical gluconolactone were found. It is a large, gentle exfoliant that FDA lists as a GRAS food ingredient, and related AHAs such as glycolic acid are considered acceptable in pregnancy. The cautious limit is OTC-strength leave-on or wash-off products, not professional peels. While breastfeeding, keep it off the breast area.
Common alternatives
Also listed as
gdl, glucono delta-lactone, glucono-delta-lactone, pha, poly hydroxy acid, polyhydroxy acid
Sources
- FDA (21 CFR 184.1318): Glucono delta-lactone - GRAS food substance regulation
- ACOG: Skin Conditions During Pregnancy
- NIH PubMed (peer-reviewed review): Lactic and lactobionic acids as typically moisturizing compounds (Int J Dermatol, 2019)
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.