The Clean Sheet
Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan

Gluconic Acid

D-Gluconic acid

Safety Notes

Polyhydroxy acid used to chelate metal ions (improving preservative and antioxidant stability), buffer pH and provide gentle exfoliation with humectancy. Milder and less irritating than typical AHAs.

Function & Common Use

Function

Chelating agent / pH adjuster / Mild exfoliant

Category

Chelating Agent

Common In

Toners, cleansers, exfoliating and chelating formulas

Origin

Plant-derived (glucose fermentation)

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No specific limit under CR 2020 in source checked

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No specific limit; use at self-determined safe level per safety assessment

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked

Baby restriction: None identified for standard cosmetic use

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gluconic Acid safe to use in skincare?

Gluconic Acid has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Polyhydroxy acid used to chelate metal ions (improving preservative and antioxidant stability), buffer pH and provide gentle exfoliation with humectancy. Milder and less irritating than typical AHAs.

Is Gluconic Acid allowed in India?

Gluconic Acid is currently classified as "Permitted; regulated as a cosmetic ingredient under CR 2020" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No specific limit under CR 2020 in source checked.

What is Gluconic Acid used for in cosmetics?

Gluconic Acid functions as: Chelating agent / pH adjuster / Mild exfoliant. It is commonly found in: Toners, cleansers, exfoliating and chelating formulas.

Is Gluconic Acid safe for babies?

Gluconic Acid has baby/child restrictions: None identified for standard cosmetic use. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.

TCS Assessment
Low Concern
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted; regulated as a cosmetic ingredient under CR 2020
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted; no specific 21 CFR cosmetic restriction identified in source checked
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted; no specific MFDS restriction identified in source checked
Australia (TGA)
Cosmetic ingredient under AICIS; standard framework applies; no therapeutic listing unless therapeutic claims made
Canada (NHPID)
Not listed as restricted on Health Canada Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist in source checked; standard cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CAS526-95-4
EC208-401-4

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