Systematic name	2-Hydroxyethanoic acid
Chemical formula	C2H4O3
Molecular mass	76.05 g/mol
Density	1.27 g/cm3
Melting point	75 °C
Boiling point	113 °C
CAS number	*
SMILES	O=C(O)CO
Chemical infobox

Glycolic acid (or hydroxyacetic acid) is the smallest α-hydroxy acid (AHA). In its pure form, glycolic acid is a colourless crystalline solid. It is very soluble in water (0.1 g/ml), alcohols, acetone, acetic acid and ethyl acetate, but only slightly soluble in ethyl ether and sparingly soluble in Hydrocarbon solvents. Glycolic acid is isolated from sugarcane, sugar beets and unripe grapes.

Uses

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Due to its excellent capability to penetrate skin, glycolic acid finds applications in skin care products, most often as a chemical peel performed by a dermatologist in concentrations of 20%-80% or at-home kits in lower concentrations of 10%. It is used to improve the skin's appearance and texture. It may reduce wrinkles, acne scarring, hyperpigmentation and improve many other skin conditions. 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, healthier, smoother, brighter-looking skin. Glycolic acid is also used for tattoo removal.

Glycolic acid is also a useful intermediate for organic synthesis, in a range of reactions including: oxidation-reduction, esterification and long chain polymerization. Among other uses this compound finds employment in the textile industry as a dyeing and tanning agent, in food processing as a flavouring agent and as a preservative. Glycolic acid is often included into emulsion polymers, solvents and additives for ink and paint in order to improve flow properties and impart gloss.

References

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External Links

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• DuPont Glycolic Acid

Dermatological preparations | Carboxylic acids | Preservatives

Glycolsäure | Acide glycolique | Acido glicolico