Loading
Loading
Ingredient guide
DIGLUCOSYL GALLIC ACID
In short
Diglucosyl Gallic Acid is a modified form of gallic acid with added glucose units, giving it both brightening and moisture‑binding properties. It can help improve the look of uneven tone while supporting hydration and barrier comfort.
Reviewed against published evidence · editorially independent · no brand pays for placement
Works for
Tone · Barrier · Hydration
Skin type
Combination · Dry · Sensitive
Best used
Anytime
What it is
Diglucosyl gallic acid is a synthetic derivative of gallic acid (3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid) glycosylated with two glucose units, creating a bifunctional molecule that combines the antioxidant and tyrosinase-inhibitory properties of gallic acid with the humectant and water-solubility characteristics of glucose; gallic acid is a naturally occurring phenolic acid abundant in tannin-containing plants (gallnuts, sumac, tea, blackberries) with potent radical-scavenging, tyrosinase inhibitory, and anti-inflammatory properties; the diglucosyl modification dramatically improves water solubility vs native gallic acid, enables neutral-to-near-neutral pH formulation, and reduces potential irritation at equivalent concentrations; tyrosinase inhibition: gallic acid chelates the copper at the active site of tyrosinase with IC50 values competitive with kojic acid and arbutin; the glucoside prodrug releases gallic acid enzymatically in skin via glucosidase activity; antioxidant: scavenges DPPH, ABTS, and lipid peroxyl radicals with potency comparable to quercetin derivatives; in vitro brightening assays show comparable melanin reduction to alpha-arbutin at 2-5% use concentrations; combination with other brighteners (niacinamide, tranexamic acid) provides complementary melanogenesis inhibition at multiple pathway nodes; emerging ingredient gaining traction in Korean cosmetic brightening formulas; limited published clinical trial data but strong mechanistic rationale.
Also found as
Related
Where to find it
Shiseido Ultimune Future Power Shot
Lancôme Clarifique Brightening Serum
Fit comes first: the Lens checks each product against your skin before any retailer link. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you — picks are editorial, never paid.
Common questions
It offers antioxidant support and may help reduce the look of uneven pigmentation while providing humectant benefits.
Yes, its gentle nature and added hydration make it a good fit for sensitive and dry skin types.
It appears in brightening serums and moisturizers aimed at evening tone and supporting overall skin comfort.
Checking a product label? Use the product checker to rate the full list against your current focus.
Personal guidance only · For clinical concerns, see a dermatologist.