At a glance
- CAS number
- 79-14-1
- INCI name
- Glycolic Acid
- Function
- active, exfoliant, ph_adjuster, humectant
- Typical use level
- 0.5%–30%
- Solubility
- water
- Stable pH
- 1.8–4.5
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
glycolic acid 2-Hydroxyacetic acid hydroxyacetic acid Hydroxyethanoic acid Glycollic acid glycolate alpha-Hydroxyacetic acid 2-Hydroxyethanoic acid Kyselina glykolova Kyselina hydroxyoctova 4-03-00-00571 (Beilstein Handbook Reference) 2-oxonioacetate
Compatibility
Works well with:
Niacinamide Hyaluronic Acid Glycerin Allantoin Panthenol Aloe Vera Sodium PCA Lactic Acid Mandelic Acid Salicylic Acid
Use caution with:
Retinol Benzoyl Peroxide L-Ascorbic Acid Sodium Bicarbonate Triethanolamine Zinc Oxide Titanium Dioxide
Glycolic Acid requires a low pH environment (typically 3.0–4.0) for efficacy, meaning alkaline or high-pH ingredients like sodium bicarbonate or triethanolamine will neutralize it and render it ineffective. Combining with Retinol or Benzoyl Peroxide significantly increases irritation risk and may degrade active performance. Inorganic UV filters (Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide) can be destabilized or aggregated in low-pH acid formulations.
Formulation notes
In the EU, leave-on products are restricted to 10% AHA with a pH ≥ 3.5 and must carry a sun-sensitivity warning; rinse-off products may go higher under professional-use guidelines. At concentrations above 10%, considered a professional/clinical-use ingredient. Always formulate with appropriate buffering and consumer patch-test guidance.
Related ingredients
- Ascorbic AcidAntioxidant
- Citric AcidPh Adjuster
- Phytic AcidChelator
- Sodium GluconateChelator
- Sodium HyaluronateHumectant
- UreaHumectant