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AccessCARE MBA

Advanced Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) for Gentle Exfoliation, Hydration, and Collagen Preservation

INCI Name: Maltobionic Acid

AccessCARE MBA is a high-performance Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) derived from natural plant sources. As a multi-functional active, Maltobionic Acid provides gentle exfoliation while acting as a powerful antioxidant and superior humectant, retaining moisture more effectively than traditional agents. It helps preserve collagen by inhibiting MMP enzymes, visibly improving skin texture, firmness, and clarity for a more youthful and radiant appearance.

Solubility Notes:

Soluble in water. Add to the water phase of your formulation. Can withstand heating.

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Perfect For These Applications

Other cosmetic uses possible—contact us for formulation guidance.

  • Gentle Exfoliating Treatments
    Provides effective yet gentle exfoliation in daily toners, serums, and peels, making it ideal for sensitive or dry skin types.
  • Anti-Aging & Firming Creams
    Inhibits collagen degradation and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in daily moisturizers and night creams.
  • Brightening & Tone-Correcting Serums
    Promotes an even skin tone and enhances skin clarity by gently removing dull surface cells and providing antioxidant protection.
  • Hydrating & Barrier Repair Products
    Acts as a powerful humectant to bind water and deeply hydrate the skin, strengthening the moisture barrier in creams and lotions.
  • Eye Creams & Treatments
    Offers gentle anti-aging benefits for the delicate eye area, improving firmness and texture without the irritation of traditional AHAs.
  • Professional Chemical Peels
    Serves as a gentle yet effective acid in professional peel formulations designed for sensitive skin or as an introductory treatment.

Performance & Formulation Insights for AccessCARE MBA

How Maltobionic Acid Works

AccessCARE MBA (Maltobionic Acid) is a Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) that delivers gentle yet effective exfoliation with significantly less irritation than traditional Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). Its larger molecular size slows skin penetration, making it ideal for sensitive, dry, or reactive skin while still improving texture, tone, and radiance.

Its primary mechanisms of action include:

  • MMP Inhibition: Helps inhibit Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP) enzymes—often upregulated by UV exposure—that break down collagen and elastin. By mitigating MMP activity, Maltobionic Acid supports dermal matrix integrity, promoting firmness and resilience.
  • Powerful Humectant: Exhibits exceptional water-binding capacity and film-forming properties, delivering deep, lasting hydration and reinforcing the skin barrier.
  • Antioxidant Activity: Chelates excess iron ions to help curb oxidative reactions in the skin, offering robust protection against photodamage and environmental stressors.

Formulation Guidelines

AccessCARE MBA is a water-soluble powder suitable for the aqueous phase of emulsions, serums, toners, and gels. It is heat-stable and can be added prior to heating. For optimal exfoliation, target a final pH of 3.5–4.5. For formulas emphasizing hydration and antioxidant benefits, a higher pH (up to 6.0) is acceptable. Its gentle profile makes it a smart alternative to glycolic or lactic acid in sensitive-skin or barrier-supporting systems.

Key Formulation Benefits

  • Gentle Exfoliation: Smooths texture and boosts clarity with minimal irritation.
  • Collagen Preservation: Helps protect existing collagen by inhibiting MMP activity for improved firmness and elasticity.
  • Superior Hydration: High humectancy provides deep, long-lasting moisture and barrier support.
  • Potent Antioxidant: Defends against oxidative stress and photodamage for comprehensive anti-aging care.
  • Improves Skin Tone & Clarity: Visibly reduces fine lines while promoting a brighter, more even complexion.
  • Suitable for All Skin Types: Ideal for dry, sensitive, and mature skin, and for users who do not tolerate traditional AHAs.
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Benefits
AHA/BHA/PHA Acids, Anti-Aging & Anti-Wrinkle, Antioxidants, Brightening & Skin Lightening, Collagen Boosting, Deep Hydration, Even Skin Tone, Exfoliants, Moisturizing & Hydration, Wrinkle Reduction
INCI Name
Maltobionic Acid
Usage Rate
1%-5%
Active Type
Acids (AHA/BHA/PHA), Polyhydroxy Acids
Solubility
Water-Soluble
Application Area
Body, Eye, Face
Physical Form
Powder
Certifications
Cruelty-Free, Vegan

Frequently Asked Questions About AccessCARE MBA

The typical usage rate is between 1% and 5%. Lower concentrations are suitable for daily hydrating and antioxidant products, while the higher end of the range is used for more intensive exfoliating treatments.
Maltobionic Acid has a larger molecular size than AHAs, leading to slower, gentler penetration and less irritation. It is also a stronger humectant and antioxidant, offering added anti-aging benefits beyond exfoliation.
Yes. Its gentle, non-irritating profile makes it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and rosacea-prone skin that may not tolerate traditional AHAs.
For exfoliating benefits, a final pH of 3.5–4.5 is recommended. For products focused on hydration and antioxidant activity, a higher pH up to 6.0 is acceptable.
Yes. It pairs well with humectants (e.g., Hyaluronic Acid), antioxidants (e.g., Vitamin C derivatives), and other anti-aging actives. Avoid pairing with ingredients that are unstable at lower pH in the same formula.
MMPs are enzymes that break down structural proteins like collagen and elastin. Their activity increases with age and UV exposure. By helping inhibit MMPs, AccessCARE MBA supports the skin’s structural integrity and firmness.

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AccessCARE MBA

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