Gluconolactone (and) sodium benzoate is a preservative blend pairing a polyhydroxy acid with a food-grade benzoate salt. It's used to control microbial growth and extend cosmetic shelf life while maintaining a mild, skin-friendly pH window.
A mild preservative blend that keeps products fresh and safe to use.
Category
Preservative
Type
Preservative
Ratings
Overall Rating
Good
Comedogenic Risk
None
Not typically evaluated for comedogenicity — no standardized rating available.
Our take
Is Gluconolactone (and) Sodium Benzoate a Good Ingredient?
It's Good because it delivers effective preservation in mildly acidic systems with a gentler profile than many alternatives. It's not rated Great because efficacy is pH-dependent and often needs adequate dosage or additional preservation hurdles to work reliably.
What it does
Skin Benefits
Helps products stay fresh and reliable by limiting contamination, with a preservation approach that's typically mild on skin. Can reduce reliance on harsher preservative systems.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
Common in water-based serums, lotions, cleansers, and wipes to safeguard formulas during daily use and storage.
Before you use it
Safety
Typically safe in leave-on and rinse-off products, though mild irritation can occur in very sensitive skin. Usage follows regional limits, such as sodium benzoate capped at 0.5% in the EU.
Products with Gluconolactone (and) Sodium Benzoate