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Glycolic Acid
AKA “2-Hydroxyacetic acid, hydroxyacetic acid, Hydroxyethanoic acid, Glycollic acid, glycolate, alpha-Hydroxyacetic acid, 2-Hydroxyethanoic acid, Kyselina glykolova”
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Ingredient Facts
Glycolic acid
AKA: 2-Hydroxyacetic acid, Hydroxyacetic acid, Hydroxyethanoic acid, Glycollic acid, Glycolate, Alpha-Hydroxyacetic acid, 2-Hydroxyethanoic acid, Kyselina glykolova
Botanical · Buffering | Exfoliating | Skin Conditioning | Humectant · EWG: 6
Plant-Derived
Humectant
Exfoliant
Skin Conditioner
Chemical Exfoliant
Clean
Glycolic Acid gently exfoliates dead skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin. Use with sunscreen daily for best results.
Formula
C2H4O3
Mol. Weight
76.05
CAS #
79-14-1
Plant-Derived
Synthetic. Produced synthetically from ethylene glycol or through fermentation of sugarcane and sugar beet sources. Synthesized via oxidation of ethylene glycol or chemical conversion of natural sugars through multi-step organic synthesis.
Function
Buffering | Exfoliating | Skin Conditioning | Humectant
Benefits
Supports cell turnover
Smooths skin texture
Brightens uneven skin tone
Traditional Use
This is not a cosmetic ingredient but a cautionary statement.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Target
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
EWG Score6
CIR Safety Findings
ewg-6, medical-approval, all-shades-safe, Phototoxicity Concern
Regulatory Status
USAunder review
CANADA✔ permitted
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Feb 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR