Glycolic acid

Glycolic acid is a widely used alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) known for its powerful exfoliating and skin-renewing properties. Derived from sugar cane, it has the smallest molecular size of all AHAs, allowing it to penetrate deeply into the skin for effective resurfacing. It works by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting their shedding and revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath. Because of its ability to accelerate cell turnover, glycolic acid is commonly used to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and fade hyperpigmentation, including sun spots and post-inflammatory discoloration.

In addition to its exfoliating benefits, glycolic acid stimulates collagen production, which helps maintain skin firmness and elasticity over time. This makes it a key ingredient in anti-aging formulations, as it not only refines the skin’s surface but also strengthens its underlying structure. Regular use can result in a more even skin tone, a reduction in pore size, and an overall more youthful appearance.

Glycolic acid is found in a variety of skincare products, including cleansers, toners, serums, and chemical peels. Lower concentrations, typically between 5 and 10 percent, are available in over-the-counter products, while professional treatments can contain much higher strengths for more intensive results. Since glycolic acid can increase skin sensitivity to the sun, daily use of sunscreen is essential when incorporating it into a skincare routine.

While glycolic acid is highly effective, it can cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. To minimize potential side effects like redness, dryness, or peeling, it is best to start with a lower concentration and gradually build tolerance. Pairing it with hydrating and soothing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides can help maintain the skin’s moisture balance. When used correctly, glycolic acid is a powerful tool for achieving smoother, more radiant, and healthier-looking skin.

Glycolic acid (Wikipedia)

Glycolic acid (or hydroxyacetic acid; chemical formula HOCH₂CO₂H) is a colorless, odorless and hygroscopic crystalline solid, highly soluble in water. It is used in various skin-care products. Glycolic acid is widespread in nature. A glycolate (sometimes spelled "glycollate") is a salt or ester of glycolic acid.

Glycolic acid

Names
Preferred IUPAC name Hydroxyacetic acid
Other names Hydroacetic acid 2-Hydroxyethanoic acid
Identifiers
CAS Number	79-14-1 Y
3D model (JSmol)	Interactive image
ChEBI	CHEBI:17497 Y
ChEMBL	ChEMBL252557 Y
ChemSpider	737 Y
DrugBank	DB03085 Y
ECHA InfoCard	100.001.073
EC Number	201-180-5
KEGG	C00160 Y
PubChem CID	757
RTECS number	MC5250000
UNII	0WT12SX38S Y
CompTox Dashboard (EPA)	DTXSID0025363
InChI InChI=1S/C2H4O3/c3-1-2(4)5/h3H,1H2,(H,4,5) Y Key: AEMRFAOFKBGASW-UHFFFAOYSA-N Y InChI=1/C2H4O3/c3-1-2(4)5/h3H,1H2,(H,4,5) Key: AEMRFAOFKBGASW-UHFFFAOYAR
SMILES OC(=O)CO
Properties
Chemical formula	C2H4O3
Molar mass	76.05 g/mol
Appearance	White powder or colorless crystals
Density	1.49 g/cm3
Melting point	75 °C (167 °F; 348 K)
Boiling point	100 °C (212 °F; 373 K) Decomposes above 100 °C
Solubility in water	70% solution
Solubility in other solvents	Alcohols, acetone, acetic acid and ethyl acetate
log P	−1.05
Vapor pressure	1.051 kPa (80 °C)
Acidity (pKa)	3.83
Hazards
Occupational safety and health (OHS/OSH):
Main hazards	Corrosive
GHS labelling:
Pictograms
Signal word	Danger
Hazard statements	H302, H314, H332
Precautionary statements	P260, P261, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P312, P301+P330+P331, P303+P361+P353, P304+P312, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P310, P312, P321, P330, P363, P405, P501
NFPA 704 (fire diamond)	3 1 1
Flash point	300 °C (572 °F; 573 K)
Lethal dose or concentration (LD, LC):
LD50 (median dose)	1950 mg/kg (rat, oral) 2040 mg/kg (rat, oral)
LC50 (median concentration)	7.7 ppm (rat, 4h) 3.6 ppm (rat, 4h)
Related compounds
Related α-hydroxy acids	Lactic acid
Related compounds	Glycolaldehyde Acetic acid Glycerol
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa). N verify (what is YN ?) Infobox references