Glycolic acid

Glycolic acid (CAS 79-14-1) is the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid, giving it exceptional skin penetration relative to other AHA compounds used in cosmetic formulations. Industrially, it functions as a pH regulator, chelating agent, and descaling chemistry across a broad range of manufacturing processes. In personal care, it is the active ingredient in chemical exfoliant products — peels, serums, and anti-aging creams — where concentration and grade determine regulatory classification. Textile and leather processors use it for pH control during dyeing and tanning operations.

Consistent acidity directly affects color uptake and hide quality in these industrial settings. Water treatment applications rely on its chelating action to sequester metal ions and inhibit scale formation in boiler and cooling systems. In food-contact and industrial cleaning formulations, it serves as a descaling and surface-conditioning acid where low residue and biodegradability are procurement advantages. Glycolic acid is supplied as an aqueous solution, most commonly at 70% concentration.

Lower concentrations are available for specific end-use requirements. Technical and industrial grades cover the cleaning and process chemistry markets, while cosmetic-grade material meets purity standards required by personal care manufacturers. Food-grade specifications are also available for applications requiring compliance with food-contact or FCC standards. This ensures the material meets the rigorous safety and quality benchmarks necessary for sensitive industrial applications.