Exfoliants
Glycolic acid
Its water solubility and acidity make pH, free-acid level, buffering, exposure time, and delivery format central to product behavior.
- INCI
- GLYCOLIC ACID
- CAS
- 79-14-1
- Also known as
- hydroxyacetic acid · AHA
- Function
- Exfoliants
Ingredient answer
What is Glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid is a small alpha-hydroxy acid used in exfoliating and resurfacing cosmetic products when the market and product format permit.
Formulation behavior
How it works inside a formula
Control raw-material strength and dilution, confirm final pH after equilibration, and validate packaging, directions, claims, and tolerance.
Where it appears
Common product contexts
- rinse-off treatments
- toners and serums
- targeted masks
Practical caution
What to keep in view
Control pH, free-acid level, exposure, packaging, consumer directions, and market-specific restrictions.
Take the ingredient into a working formula.
Keep supplier details, percentages, compliance checks, and batch records inside your private Formuley workspace.