Ethanol + glycolic acid

Ethanol + glycolic acid is a combination of two small molecules, ethanol (an alcohol) and glycolic acid (an alpha hydroxy acid). Ethanol is commonly used as an antiseptic and as an antidote for methanol and ethylene glycol poisoning by inhibiting alcohol dehydrogenase, thereby preventing the formation of toxic metabolites[3][5]. Glycolic acid is primarily used as a keratolytic agent in dermatology due to its ability to promote exfoliation of the skin; it also acts as a metabolite in various biochemical pathways[1][2]. The combination has been investigated for topical use, such as in the treatment of cold sores, where it may provide both antiviral effects (from ethanol) and enhanced skin penetration or exfoliation (from glycolic acid)[4].

Brand names

Merlin

Other names

ethanol and glycolic acid mixture