DESCRIPTION: Maltobionic Acid is a high performance, next generation PHA known for its exceptional gentleness and multipurpose benefits. It offers exfoliation, hydration, antioxidant protection, and barrier strengthening—all without the irritation commonly associated with AHAs.
What makes Maltobionic acid special is that it can still exfoliate the skin when the final pH is between 5.0 – 6.0. It also exhibits superior hydration.
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Gentle Exfoliation: Maltobionic Acid loosens the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed naturally. This smoothens the skin and reveals a brighter complexion without stinging or peeling.
Deep Hydration Booster: Its multiple hydroxyl groups attract and hold water like a sponge. You can enjoy plumper, more hydrated skin with improved softness.
Antioxidant Activity: Maltobionic Acid chelates metal ions and neutralizes free radicals. This helps prevent dullness, fine lines, and environmental damage.
Barrier Strengthening : It supports the skin’s natural moisture barrier by reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Skin becomes less dry, less sensitivity, and enjoys an improved long term skin health.
Anti Glycation: Maltobionic Acid improves firmness and elasticity over time by reducing the formation of AGEs (advanced glycation end products), which stiffen collagen.
Visible Cosmetic Benefits – Short Term (1–2 weeks)
- Smoother skin texture
- Brighter, more even tone
- Increased hydration
- Reduced flakiness and roughness
Visible Cosmetic Benefits – Long Term (4–12 weeks)
- Improved firmness and elasticity
- Reduction in fine lines
- Strengthened skin barrier
- More radiant, youthful appearance
- Reduced sensitivity and redness
FEATURES
- Smooths skin texture without irritation or peeling
- Ideal for daily use, even on reactive or post‑procedure skin
- Deep, Long‑Lasting Hydration – Acts as a powerful humectant, drawing moisture into the skin.
- Leaves skin feeling plump, soft, and supple
- Reduces moisture loss (TEWL)
- Helps build a more resilient, healthier barrier over time
- Gently removes dull surface cells
- Reveals a brighter, more even‑toned complexion
- Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines
- Improves firmness and elasticity through anti‑glycation activity
- Naturally soothing; reduces visible signs of sensitivity
- Suitable for rosacea‑prone or easily irritated skin
- Neutralizes free radicals
- Helps defend against environmental stress and premature aging
- Ultra‑Gentle Alternative to AHAs
- Provides AHA‑like results without stinging or downtime
- Perfect for consumers seeking “non‑acid acid” exfoliation
- Non‑irritating and suitable for sensitive skin
- Non‑photosensitizing
- Safe for daily use
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Compliant with major cosmetic regulations when used as a skin‑conditioning/exfoliating agent
COMPATIBIITIES & SYNERGIES: D-Panthenol, Bioferment extracts, Niacinamide, ceramides, Biogum-1, Ectoine Natural, Glyceryl Glucoside, Green Tea Extract-Clear, Hyaluronic acid, etc
APPLICATIONS: Toners, gels, serums, lotions, creams, masks, etc. For Sensitive skin exfoliants, Anti aging serums, Barrier repair moisturizers, Brightening treatments, Post procedure skincare, Dermocosmetic formulations, Post procedure soothing products, Daily gentle resurfacing treatments
FORMULATION GUIDELINES
| INCI | Maltobionic acid |
| Chemical Class | Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) |
| Solubility | Water |
| Use rate | 1.0 – 5.0% in leave on products. Up to 8% in rinse off products. |
| pH Stability | 3.0 – 7.0 (Ideal final pH: 3.5 – 5.0. Lower pH increases exfoliation strength. Higher pH increases gentleness and good for hydration focus) |
| Temperature Tolerance | Avoid temperatures above 70°C |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder with moderate hygroscopicity |
| Stability | Good; protect from prolonged UV exposure |
This is a cosmetic raw material and is meant for external use only in cosmetic formulations. As with all of our materials, it should not be taken internally. Treasure Actives is not responsible for product compatibility. We advise everyone to test ingredients for performance, compatibility, and safety prior to committing to larger quantities. Keep all products out of reach of children. For more information, please see our terms and conditions page.
