Sodium glycolate

Sodium glycolate (CAS 2836-32-0), also known as monosodium glycolate, sodium hydroxyacetate, and glycolic acid sodium salt, is the sodium salt of glycolic acid. It carries no assigned E-code and is classified under HS code 29189900. It is commercially available as a white to off-white powder.

In personal care formulations, sodium glycolate acts as a pH buffer and chelating agent, binding trace metal ions that would otherwise destabilize emulsions or promote rancidity. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it serves as an excipient for pH regulation in aqueous systems. Its hygroscopic character also supports humectant function in topical and cosmetic preparations.

Sodium glycolate is supplied in powder form and is subject to REACH registration requirements for EU market entry. Procurement teams should confirm whether the supplied grade meets FCC or Ph.Eur. specifications depending on the intended application. Packaging formats and minimum order quantities vary by supplier and should be confirmed at the time of enquiry.