GLYCOLIC ACID
GLYCOLIC ACID
Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is commonly used in skincare products and cosmetic treatments.
Glycolic acid is a colorless, odorless and hygroscopic crystalline solid, highly soluble in water.
Glycolic acid is a deliquescent crystals that occur naturally as a component in sugarcane.
CAS Number: 79-14-1
EC Number: 201-180-5
Molecular Formula: C2H4O3
Molecular Weight: 76.05
Synonyms: glycolic acid, 2-Glycolic acid, Glycolic acid, 79-14-1, Glycollic acid, Hydroxyethanoic acid, Acetic acid, hydroxy-, glycolate, Polyglycolide, Caswell No. 470, Kyselina glykolova, alpha-Glycolic acid, Kyselina hydroxyoctova, 2-Hydroxyethanoic acid, HOCH2COOH, EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 000101, HSDB 5227, NSC 166, Kyselina glykolova [Czech], AI3-15362, Kyselina hydroxyoctova [Czech], C2H4O3, Glycocide, GlyPure, BRN 1209322, NSC-166, Acetic acid, 2-hydroxy-, EINECS 201-180-5, UNII-0WT12SX38S, MFCD00004312, GlyPure 70, 0WT12SX38S, CCRIS 9474, DTXSID0025363, CHEBI:17497, Glycolic acid-13C2, .alpha.-Glycolic acid, GLYCOLLATE, DTXCID105363, NSC166, EC 201-180-5, 4-03-00-00571 (Beilstein Handbook Reference), GLYCOLIC-2,2-D2 ACID, GOA, Glycolic acid (MART.), Glycolic acid [MART.], C2H3O3-, glycolicacid, Glycolate Standard: C2H3O3- @ 1000 microg/mL in H2O, Hydroxyethanoate, a-Hydroxyacetate, hydroxy-acetic acid, 2-Hydroxyaceticacid, alpha-Hydroxyacetate, a-Glycolic acid, 2-hydroxy acetic acid, 2-hydroxy-acetic acid, 2-hydroxyl ethanoic acid, HO-CH2-COOH, Glycolic acid solution, bmse000245, WLN: QV1Q, Glycolic acid [MI], Glycolic acid (7CI,8CI), Glycolic acid [INCI], Glycolic acid [VANDF], Glycolic acid, p.a., 98%, Acetic acid, hydroxy- (9CI), CHEMBL252557, Glycolic acid [WHO-DD], Glycolic acid, Crystal, Reagent, Glycolic acid [HSDB], BCP28762, Glycolic acid, >=97.0% (T), STR00936, Tox21_301298, s6272, STL197955, AKOS000118921, Glycolic acid, ReagentPlus(R), 99%, CS-W016683, DB03085, HY-W015967, SB83760, CAS-79-14-1, USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 000101, NCGC00160612-01, NCGC00160612-02, NCGC00257533-01, FT-0612572, FT-0669047, G0110, G0196, Glycolic acid 100 microg/mL in Acetonitrile, EN300-19242, Glycolic acid, SAJ special grade, >=98.0%, C00160, C03547, D78078, Glycolic acid, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 98%, Glycolic acid; HYDROXYETHANOIC ACID, Glycolic acid, BioXtra, >=98.0% (titration), Q409373, J-509661, F2191-0224, Glycolic acid; Hydroxyethanoic acid; Glycollic acid, Z104473274, 287EB351-FF9F-4A67-B4B9-D626406C9B13, Glycolic acid, certified reference material, TraceCERT(R), InChI=1/C2H4O3/c3-1-2(4)5/h3H,1H2,(H,4,5, Glycolic acid, anhydrous, free-flowing, Redi-Dri(TM), ReagentPlus(R), 99%, Glycolic acid, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Certified Reference Material, O7Z
Glycolic acid is derived from sugar cane and belongs to a family of naturally occurring acids that are known for their exfoliating and skin-renewing properties.
Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA).
Glycolic acid is mainly supplemented to various skin-care products to improve the skin’s appearance and texture.
Glycolic acid can also reduce wrinkles, acne scarring, and hyperpigmentation. In textile industry, Glycolic acid can be used as a dyeing and tanning agent.
Glycolic acid, CH20HCOOH, is composed of colorless deliquescent leaflets that decompose at approximately 78° C (172 OF).
Glycolic acid is also known as 2-hydroxyethanoic acid, and its IUPAC name is Glycolic acid.
Glycolic acid is a 2-hydroxy monocarboxylic acid that is acetic acid where the methyl group has been hydroxylated.
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that has antibacterial, antioxidant, keratolytic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Glycolic acid is soluble in water, alcohol and ether.
Glycolic acid is a colorless, odorless and hygroscopic crystalline solid, highly soluble in water.
Glycolic acid 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 is used in dyeing, tanning, electropolishing,and in foodstuffs.
Glycolic acid is functionally related to acetic acid and is slightly stronger than it.
The salts or esters of Glycolic acid are called glycolates.
Glycolic acid is widespread in nature and can be separated from natural sources like sugarcane, sugar beets, pineapple, cantaloupe, and unripe grapes.
Glycolic acid is produced by oxidizing glycol with dilute nitric acid.
Glycolic acid is used in various skin-care products.
Glycolic acid is used in processing and dyeing textiles and Leather.
Glycolic acid is also used for cleaning, polishing, and soldering metals.
Glycolic acid is a colorless, odourless, and hygroscopic crystalline solid with the chemical formula C2H4O3.
Glycolic acid is widespread in nature.
A glycolate (sometimes spelled “glycollate”) is a salt or ester of Glycolic acid.
Glycolic acid, or Glycolic acid, is a weak acid.
Glycolic acid is sold commercially as a 70% solution.
Glycolic acid is widely used in the skincare and cosmetic industry due to Glycolic acid ability to exfoliate the skin, promote skin cell turnover, and improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin.
Glycolic acid, also known as 2-hydroxyacetate or glycolate, belongs to the class of organic compounds known as alpha hydroxy acids and derivatives.
These are organic compounds containing a carboxylic acid substituted with a hydroxyl group on the adjacent carbon.
This could make Glycolic acid a potential biomarker for the consumption of these foods.
Once applied, Glycolic acid reacts with the upper layer of the epidermis, weakening the binding properties of the lipids that hold the dead skin cells together.
Glycolic acid is a potentially toxic compound.
Glycolic acid, with regard to humans, has been found to be associated with several diseases such as transurethral resection of the prostate and biliary atresia; Glycolic acid has also been linked to several inborn metabolic disorders including glutaric acidemia type 2, Glycolic aciduria, and d-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria.
Glycolic and oxalic acid, along with excess lactic acid, are responsible for the anion gap metabolic acidosis.
Glycolic acid exists in all living species, ranging from bacteria to humans.
In humans, Glycolic acid is involved in rosiglitazone metabolism pathway.
Outside of the human body, Glycolic acid has been detected, but not quantified in, several different foods, such as sourdocks, pineappple sages, celeriacs, cloves, and feijoa.
Glycolic acid is an extremely weak basic (essentially neutral) compound (based on Glycolic acid pKa).
Glycolic acid works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, allowing them to be sloughed off more easily.
This indicates that the hydroxyl group is involved in complex formation, possibly with the loss of Glycolic acid proton.
Glycolic acid addresses skin issues by exfoliating dead skin cells that accumulate on the surface of the epidermis and contribute to dull, discolored, and uneven looking skin.
Glycolic acid can make the skin more sensitive in the sunlight, hence always use sunscreen and protective clothing before you step outdoors.
Plants produce Glycolic acid during photorespiration.
Glycolic acid is recycled by conversion to glycine within the peroxisomes and to tartronic acid semialdehyde within the chloroplasts.
Common side effects of Glycolic acid include dry skin, erythema (skin redness), burning sensation, itching, skin irritation, and skin rash.
Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA).
This colourless, odourless, and hygroscopic crystalline solid is highly soluble in water.
Due to its excellent capability to penetrate skin, Glycolic acid is often used in skin care products, most often as a chemical peel.
Glycolic acid may reduce wrinkles, acne scarring, and hyperpigmentation and improve many other skin conditions, including actinic keratosis, hyperkeratosis, and seborrheic keratosis.
Acute doses of Glycolic acid on skin or eyes leads to local effects that are typical of a strong acid (e.g. dermal and eye irritation).
Glycolate is a nephrotoxin if consumed orally.
A nephrotoxin is a compound that causes damage to the kidney and kidney tissues.
Glycolic acid’s renal toxicity is due to its metabolism to oxalic acid.
Glycolic and oxalic acid, along with excess lactic acid, are responsible for the anion gap metabolic acidosis.
Oxalic acid readily precipitates with calcium to form insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
Once applied, Glycolic acid reacts with the upper layer of the epidermis, weakening the binding properties of the lipids that hold the dead skin cells together.
This allows the outer skin to dissolve, revealing the underlying skin.
Glycolic acid is thought that this is due to the reduction of calcium ion concentrations in the epidermis and the removal of calcium ions from cell adhesions, leading to desquamation.
Renal tissue injury is caused by widespread deposition of oxalate crystals and the toxic effects of Glycolic acid.
Glycolic acid does exhibit some inhalation toxicity and can cause respiratory, thymus, and liver damage if present in very high levels over long periods of time.
Glycolic acid is used in the textile industry as a dyeing and tanning agent in food processing as a flavoring agent and as a preservative, and in the pharmaceutical industry as a skin care agent.
Glycolic acid is also used in adhesives and plastics.
Glycolic acid is often included in emulsion polymers, solvents and additives for ink and paint in order to improve flow properties and impart gloss.
Glycolic acid is used in surface treatment products that increase the coefficient of friction on tile flooring.
Glycolic acid is a known inhibitor of tyrosinase.
This can suppress melanin formation and lead to a lightening of skin colour.
This process can help with various skin concerns, including acne, fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone.
Glycolic acid is the active ingredient in the household cleaning liquid.
Physician-strength peels can have a pH as low as 0.6 (strong enough to completely keratolyze the epidermis), while acidities for home peels can be as low as 2.5.
The process converts glycolate into glycerate without using the conventional BASS6 and PLGG1 route.
Glycolic acid works by speeding up cell turnover Glycolic acid helps dissolve the bonds that hold skin cells together, allowing dead skin cells to slough off more rapidly than they would on their own.
Glycolic acid also stimulates your skin to create more collagen.
Collagen is the protein that gives skin its firmness, plumpness, and elasticity.
Glycolic acid is an incredibly popular treatment because of the many benefits Glycolic acid has for the skin.
Glycolic acid has effective skin-renewing properties, so Glycolic acid is often used in anti-aging products.
Glycolic acid can help smooth fine wrinkles and improve the skin’s tone and texture.
Glycolic acid is a water-soluble alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is derived from sugar cane.
Glycolic acid is one of the most well-known and widely used alphahydroxy acids in the skincare industry.
Glycolic acid plumps the skin and helps boost hydration levels.
Glycolic acid provides far greater solubility than silicafluorides or hydrofluosilicic acid.
Electrochemical Energy Systems permits higher concentrations of acid in solution than citric acid for greater neutralizing efficiency while avoiding salting or rust discoloration problems.
Glycolic acid reaches a final pH of 5-6 more quickly than silicafluorides, especially at lower wash temperatures.
High solubility means a lower possibility of damaged fabric—even if it’s ironed while wet.
Glycolic acid fulfills many roles across a wide range of industries, thanks to Glycolic acid low odor and toxicity, biodegradability, phosphate-free composition, and ability to chelate metal salts.
A glycolate or glycollate is a salt or ester of Glycolic acid.
(C6H5C(=O)OCH2COOH), which they called “benzoGlycolic acid” (Benzoglykolsäure; also benzoyl Glycolic acid).
They boiled the ester for days with dilute sulfuric acid, thereby obtaining benzoic acid and Glycolic acid.
Glycolic acid liquid doesn’t cake in storage and measures easily out of automatic dispensing equipment.
Once applied, Glycolic acid reacts with the upper layer of the epidermis, weakening the binding properties of the lipids that hold the dead skin cells together.
This allows the stratum corneum to be exfoliated, exposing live skin cells.
Glycolic acid is a useful intermediate for organic synthesis, in a range of reactions including: oxidation-reduction, esterification and long chain polymerization.
Other alpha-hydroxy acids include lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, and citric acid.
Glycolic acid has the smallest sized molecules of all the alpha-hydroxy acids Because of these super tiny molecules, Glycolic acid can easily penetrate the skin.
This allows Glycolic acid to exfoliate the skin more effectively than other AHAs.
Glycolic acid is used as a monomer in the preparation of polyGlycolic acid and other biocompatible copolymers (e.g. PLGA).
Commercially, important derivatives include the methyl and ethyl esters which are readily distillable (boiling points 147–149 °C and 158–159 °C, respectively), unlike the parent acid.
The butyl ester (b.p. 178–186 °C) is a component of some varnishes, being desirable because Glycolic acid is nonvolatile and has good dissolving properties.
Many plants make Glycolic acid during photorespiration.
Glycolic acids role consumes significant amounts of energy.
Glycolic acid penetrates the skin effectively due to its small molecular size, helping to remove dead skin cells and debris from the surface.
This can lead to a smoother, brighter complexion.
The use of Glycolic acid in skincare products is associated with several benefits, including reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin texture, minimizing the appearance of pores, and fading hyperpigmentation and acne scars.
The concentration of Glycolic acid in these products can vary, with higher concentrations generally being available in professional treatments.
While Glycolic acid can benefit many skin types, Glycolic acid may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with very sensitive or reactive skin.
In 2017 researchers announced a process that employs a novel protein to reduce energy consumption/loss and prevent plants from releasing harmful ammonia.
Sun protection helps prevent sunburn and further skin damage.
Glycolic acid can be found in a range of skincare products, including cleansers, toners, serums, and creams.
Glycolic acid can be isolated from natural sources, such as sugarcane, sugar beets, pineapple, cantaloupe and unripe grapes.
Glycolic acid can be used as part of an acne treatment regimen.
Glycolic acid helps to unclog pores, reduce the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), and promote the shedding of dead skin cells that can contribute to acne.
Dermatologists often use Glycolic acid in chemical peels, which are cosmetic procedures designed to improve the skin’s appearance.
Glycolic acid is a simple organic compound with a hydroxyl group (-OH) and a carboxylic acid group (-COOH) on adjacent carbon atoms in its chemical structure.
Glycolic acid is known for its exfoliating properties.
Glycolic acid is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA).
The word acid might scare, but Glycolic acid usually comes in lower concentrations for at-home use.
Glycolic acid works as an exfoliant to turn over dead skin cells and reveal new skin cells.
Glycolic acid’s also one of the smallest AHAs, meaning that Glycolic acid can penetrate deeply to give the best results.
Applications of Glycolic acid:
Glycolic acid is used in the textile industry as a dyeing and tanning agent.
Organic synthesis:
Glycolic acid is a useful intermediate for organic synthesis, in a range of reactions including: oxidation-reduction, esterification and long chain polymerization.
Glycolic acid is used as a monomer in the preparation of polyglycolic acid and other biocompatible copolymers.
Commercially, important derivatives include the methyl and ethyl esters which are readily distillable (boiling points 147–149 °C and 158–159 °C, respectively), unlike the parent acid.
The butyl ester is a component of some varnishes, being desirable because Glycolic acid is nonvolatile and has good dissolving properties.
Occurrence:
Plants produce glycolic acid during photorespiration.
Glycolic acid is recycled by conversion to glycine within the peroxisomes and to tartronic acid semialdehyde within the chloroplasts.
Because photorespiration is a wasteful side reaction in regard to photosynthesis, much effort has been devoted to suppressing its formation.
One process converts glycolate into glycerate without using the conventional BASS6 and PLGG1 route; see glycerate pathway.
Uses of Glycolic acid:
Glycolic acid acts by dissolving the internal cellular cement responsible for abnormal keratinization, facilitating the sloughing of dead skin cells.
Glycolic acid is also the AHA that scientists and formulators believe has greater penetration potential largely due to its smaller molecular weight.
Glycolic acid is mildly irritating to the skin and mucous membranes if the formulation contains a high Glycolic acid concentration and/ or a low pH.
Glycolic acid proves beneficial for acne-prone skin as Glycolic acid helps keep pores clear of excess keratinocytes.
Glycolic acid is naturally found in sugarcane but synthetic versions are most often used in cosmetic formulations.
Glycolic acid is used as a monomer in the preparation of polyGlycolic acid and other biocompatible copolymers (e.g. PLGA).
Glycolic acid also improves skin hydration by enhancing moisture uptake as well as increasing the skin’s ability to bind water.
Glycolic acid is also used for diminishing the signs of age spots, as well as actinic keratosis.
However, Glycolic acid is most popularly employed in anti-aging cosmetics because of its hydrating, moisturizing, and skin-normalizing abilities, leading to a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Commercially, important derivatives include the methyl and ethyl esters which are readily distillable (boiling points 147–149 °C and 158–159 °C, respectively), unlike the parent acid.
Glycolic acid can be used with hydrochloric or sulfamic acids to prevent iron precipitation in cleaning operations or water flooding.
Regardless of the G skin type, Glycolic acid use is associated with softer, smoother, healthier, and younger looking skin.
This occurs in the cellular cement through an activation of Glycolic acid and the skin’s own hyaluronic acid content.
Glycolic acid also effectively eliminates harmful deposits while minimizing corrosion damage to steel or copper systems.
Glycolic acid reacts more slowly and thus penetrates more deeply into formations before fully reacting.
That characteristic leads to enhanced worm holing, because Glycolic acid dissolves the equivalent amount of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) as hydrochloric acid without the resulting corrosion.
One of the primary uses of Glycolic acid in skincare is as an exfoliant.
Glycolic acid helps remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, resulting in a smoother and more radiant complexion.
Glycolic acid is used to treat acne by unclogging pores, reducing the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), and promoting the shedding of dead skin cells that can contribute to acne.
In addition to over-the-counter products, dermatologists and skincare professionals often use Glycolic acid in more concentrated forms for in-office treatments like chemical peels and microdermabrasion.
These treatments can provide more immediate and dramatic results but require professional oversight.
Hyaluronic acid is known to retain an impressive amount of moisture and this capacity is enhanced by Glycolic acid.
As a result, the skin’s own ability to raise its moisture content is increased.
Glycolic acid is the simplest alpha hydroxyacid (AHA).
Glycolic acid is used in the textile industry as a dyeing and tanning agent.
In the processing of textiles, leather, and metals; in pH control, and wherever a cheap organic acid is needed, e.g. in the manufacture of adhesives, in copper brightening, decontamination cleaning, dyeing, electroplating, in pickling, cleaning and chemical milling of metals.
Glycolic acid is used as an intermediate in organic synthesis and several reactions, such as oxidation-reduction, esterification, and long chain polymerization.
Glycolic acid is used as a monomer in the preparation of Poly(lactic-co-Glycolic acid) (PLGA).
Glycolic acid reacts with lactic acid to form PLGA using ring-opening co-polymerization.,
Glycolic acid is commonly used in anti-aging products to stimulate collagen production, which can improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Glycolic acid can help fade dark spots, sunspots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation by promoting even skin tone.
Glycolic acid can improve skin texture, making it feel smoother and look more youthful.
Glycolic acid can minimize the appearance of enlarged pores.
Glycolic acid is used in chemical peels, both at home and in dermatologist’s offices or skincare clinics.
Chemical peels with Glycolic acid can be tailored to address various skin concerns, including wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and acne scars.
PolyGlycolic acid (PGA) is prepared from the monomer Glycolic acid using polycondensation or ring-opening polymerization.
Glycolic acid is widely used in skin care products as an exfoliant and keratolytic.
Glycolic acid is used in the textile industry as a dyeing and tanning agent.
These peels involve the application of a higher concentration of Glycolic acid to the skin, followed by exfoliation and skin rejuvenation.
While Glycolic acid is commonly associated with facial skincare, Glycolic acid can also be used on other parts of the body to address issues like keratosis pilaris, rough skin on elbows and knees, and body acne.
Glycolic acid may be used to adjust the pH level of Glycolic acid.
This can help optimize the effectiveness of other active ingredients.
Glycolic acid can also act as a humectant, meaning Glycolic acid can attract and retain moisture in the skin, which is beneficial for individuals with dry or dehydrated skin.
However, it’s essential to use moisturizers alongside Glycolic acid products to prevent excessive dryness.
In industrial and household applications, Glycolic acid is sometimes used to remove stains and scale deposits, such as those caused by hard water, rust, or mineral buildup.
When using Glycolic acid-containing products in your skincare routine, be cautious about mixing them with other active ingredients, especially strong acids like salicylic acid or vitamin C.
Combining certain active ingredients can lead to skin irritation or reduce effectiveness, so it’s advisable to consult with a skincare professional for guidance.
In medicine, Glycolic acid has been used in wound care products to help promote the healing of minor cuts, abrasions, and surgical incisions.
Glycolic acid can be used to manage keratosis pilaris, a common skin condition characterized by small, rough bumps on the skin, often found on the arms and thighs.
Some over-the-counter products containing Glycolic acid are used to soften and help remove calluses and corns on the feet.
In some hair care products, Glycolic acid may be included to help exfoliate the scalp, remove product buildup, and improve hair texture.
Glycolic acid can help repair sun-damaged skin by promoting the shedding of damaged skin cells and stimulating the production of healthier, more youthful-looking skin.
Glycolic acid is often used in products designed for sun-damaged or aging skin.
Glycolic acid can be used to prevent and treat ingrown hairs, particularly in areas prone to razor bumps and irritation, such as the beard area in men.
Glycolic acid is sometimes combined with other skincare ingredients like salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, and retinol to create more comprehensive skincare products that address multiple concerns, such as acne, aging, and hydration.
Glycolic acid is used in the processing of textiles, leather, and metals.
Glycolic acid is used as an intermediate in organic synthesis and several reactions, such as oxidation-reduction, esterification, and long chain polymerization.
Glycolic acid (Glycolic acid) reduces corenocyte cohesion and corneum layer thickening where an excess buildup of dead skin cells can be associated with many common skin problems, such as acne, dry and severely dry skin, and wrinkles.
Glycolic acid can also be used as a flavoring agent in food processing, and as a skin care agent in the pharmaceutical industry.
Glycolic acid can also be added into emulsion polymers, solvents and ink additives to improve flow properties and impart gloss.
Moreover, Glycolic acid is a useful intermediate for organic synthesis including oxidative-reduction, esterification and long chain polymerization.
Preparation of Glycolic acid:
Glycolic acid can be synthesized in various ways.
The predominant approaches use a catalyzed reaction of formaldehyde with synthesis gas (carbonylation of formaldehyde), for Glycolic acid low cost.
Glycolic acid is also prepared by the reaction of chloroacetic acid with sodium hydroxide followed by re-acidification.
Other methods, not noticeably in use, include hydrogenation of oxalic acid, and hydrolysis of the cyanohydrin derived from formaldehyde.
Some of today’s glycolic acids are formic acid-free.
Glycolic acid can be isolated from natural sources, such as sugarcane, sugar beets, pineapple, cantaloupe and unripe grapes.
Glycolic acid can also be prepared using an enzymatic biochemical process that may require less energy.
Typical Properties of Glycolic acid:
Glycolic acid is slightly stronger than acetic acid due to the electron-withdrawing power of the terminal hydroxyl group.
The carboxylate group can coordinate to metal ions, forming coordination complexes.
Of particular note are the complexes with Pb2+ and Cu2+ which are significantly stronger than complexes with other carboxylic acids.
This indicates that the hydroxyl group is involved in complex formation, possibly with the loss of Glycolic acid proton.
History of Glycolic acid:
The name “Glycolic acid” was coined in 1848 by French chemist Auguste Laurent (1807–1853).
He proposed that the amino acid glycine—which was then called glycocolle—might be the amine of a hypothetical acid, which he called “Glycolic acid” (acide glycolique).
Glycolic acid was first prepared in 1851 by German chemist Adolph Strecker (1822–1871) and Russian chemist Nikolai Nikolaevich Sokolov (1826–1877).
They produced Glycolic acid by treating hippuric acid with nitric acid and nitrogen dioxide to form an ester of benzoic acid and Glycolic acid (C6H5C(=O)OCH2COOH), which they called “benzoGlycolic acid” (Benzoglykolsäure; also benzoyl Glycolic acid).
They boiled the ester for days with dilute sulfuric acid, thereby obtaining benzoic acid and Glycolic acid (Glykolsäure).
Safety Profile of Glycolic acid:
Glycolic acid can cause skin irritation, especially for individuals with sensitive skin.
This may manifest as redness, burning, itching, or stinging.
Glycolic acid’s essential to perform a patch test before using glycolic acid products.
Glycolic acid can make the skin more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
This increased sensitivity can lead to a higher risk of sunburn and skin damage.
Glycolic acid is crucial to use sunscreen and protective clothing when using glycolic acid products and avoid excessive sun exposure.
As an exfoliant, glycolic acid can cause dryness and peeling, especially when used in high concentrations or too frequently.
This can be managed by using moisturizers and reducing the frequency of glycolic acid application.
While rare, some individuals may be allergic or hypersensitive to glycolic acid, leading to more severe skin reactions.
In cases where high concentrations of glycolic acid are used without proper supervision or inappropriately, chemical burns can occur.
This is more common in professional treatments like chemical peels and should only be administered by trained professionals.
First aid measures of Glycolic acid:
General advice:
First aiders need to protect themselves.
Show Glycolic acid safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
If inhaled:
After inhalation:
Immediately call in physician.
If breathing stops:
Immediately apply artificial respiration, if necessary also oxygen.
In case of skin contact:
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
Rinse skin with water/ shower.
Call a physician immediately.
In case of eye contact:
After eye contact:
Rinse out with plenty of water.
Immediately call in ophthalmologist.
Remove contact lenses.
If swallowed:
After swallowing:
Make victim drink water (two glasses at most), avoid vomiting (risk of perforation).
Call a physician immediately. Do not attempt to neutralise.
Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed:
No data available
Firefighting measures of Glycolic acid:
Suitable extinguishing media:
Water Foam Carbon dioxide (CO2) Dry powder
Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture:
Carbon oxides
Combustible.
Vapors are heavier than air and may spread along floors.
Forms explosive mixtures with air on intense heating.
Development of hazardous combustion gases or vapours possible in the event of fire.
Advice for firefighters:
Stay in danger area only with self-contained breathing apparatus.
Prevent skin contact by keeping a safe distance or by wearing suitable protective clothing.
Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.
Accidental release measures of Glycolic acid:
Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures:
Advice for non-emergency personnel:
Avoid inhalation of dusts.
Avoid substance contact.
Ensure adequate ventilation.
Evacuate the danger area, observe emergency procedures, consult an expert.
Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains.
Collect, bind, and pump off spills.
Observe possible material restrictions.
Take up dry.
Dispose of properly.
Clean up affected area.
Avoid generation of dusts.
Handling and storage of Glycolic acid:
Precautions for safe handling:
Advice on safe handling:
Work under hood.
Do not inhale substance/mixture.
Hygiene measures:
Immediately change contaminated clothing.
Apply preventive skin protection.
Wash hands and face after working with substance.
Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
Storage conditions:
Tightly closed.
Dry.
Storage class:
Storage class (TRGS 510): 8A: Combustible, corrosive hazardous materials
Stability and reactivity:
Reactivity of Glycolic acid:
Forms explosive mixtures with air on intense heating.
A range from approx. 15 Kelvin below the flash point is to be rated as critical.
The following applies in general to flammable organic substances and mixtures:
In correspondingly fine distribution, when whirled up a dust explosion potential may generally be assumed.
Chemical stability:
Glycolic acid is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature).
Possibility of hazardous reactions:
Violent reactions possible with:
Oxidizing agents
Reducing agents
Conditions to avoid:
Strong heating.
Incompatible materials:
Gives off hydrogen by reaction with metals.
Identifiers of Glycolic acid:
CAS Number: 79-14-1
ChEBI: CHEBI:17497
ChEMBL: ChEMBL252557
ChemSpider: 737
DrugBank: DB03085
ECHA InfoCard: 100.001.073
EC Number: 201-180-5
KEGG: C00160
PubChem CID: 757
RTECS number: MC5250000
UNII: 0WT12SX38S
CompTox Dashboard (EPA): DTXSID0025363
InChI: InChI=1S/C2H4O3/c3-1-2(4)5/h3H,1H2,(H,4,5)
Key: AEMRFAOFKBGASW-UHFFFAOYSA-N check
InChI=1/C2H4O3/c3-1-2(4)5/h3H,1H2,(H,4,5)
Key: AEMRFAOFKBGASW-UHFFFAOYAR
SMILES: OC(=O)CO
Synonym(s): Hydroxyacetic acid
Linear Formula: HOCH2COOH
CAS Number: 79-14-1
Molecular Weight: 76.05
Beilstein: 1209322
EC Number: 201-180-5
MDL number: MFCD00004312
eCl@ss: 39021303
PubChem Substance ID: 24847624
NACRES: NA.21
Properties of Glycolic acid:
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: Decomposes
Solubility in water: 70% solution
Solubility in other solvents: Alcohols, acetone, acetic acid and ethyl acetate
log P: −1.05
Acidity (pKa): 3.83
Quality Level: 200
product line: ReagentPlus®
Assay: 99%
form: solid
mp: 75-80 °C (lit.)
solubility: H2O: 50 mg/mL, clear, colorless
SMILES string: OCC(O)=O
InChI: 1S/C2H4O3/c3-1-2(4)5/h3H,1H2,(H,4,5)
InChI key: AEMRFAOFKBGASW-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Melting point: 75-80 °C (lit.)
Boiling point: 112 °C
Density: 1.25 g/mL at 25 °C
vapor pressure: 10.8 hPa (80 °C)
refractive index: n20/D 1.424
Flash point: 112°C
storage temp.: Store below +30°C.
solubility: H2O: 0.1 g/mL, clear
pka: 3.83(at 25℃)
form: Solution
color: White to off-white
PH: 2 (50g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Odor: at 100.00 %. odorless very mild buttery
Odor Type: buttery
Viscosity: 6.149mm2/s
Water Solubility: SOLUBLE
Sensitive: Hygroscopic
Merck: 14,4498
BRN: 1209322
Stability: Stable. Incompatible with bases, oxidizing agents and reducing agents.
InChIKey: AEMRFAOFKBGASW-UHFFFAOYSA-N
LogP: -1.07 at 20℃
Indirect Additives used in Food Contact Substances: Glycolic acid
FDA 21 CFR: 175.105
Specifications of Glycolic acid:
Color according to color reference solution Ph.Eur.: colorless liquid
Assay (acidimetric): 69.0 – 74.0 %
Density (d 20 °C/ 4 °C): 1.260 – 1.280
Heavy metals (as Pb): ≤ 3 ppm
Refractive index (n 20°/D): 1.410 – 1.415
pH-value: 0.0 – 1.0
Related compounds of Glycolic acid:
Glycolaldehyde
Acetic acid
Glycerol
Related α-hydroxy acids:
Lactic acid
Names of Glycolic acid:
Preferred IUPAC name:
Hydroxyacetic acid
Other names:
Hydroacetic acid
2-Hydroxyethanoic acid