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Glycolic acid
- Molecular classification
- Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), 2-hydroxy monocarboxylic acid, small molecule
01
Overview
Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), with the chemical formula C₂H₄O₃ (HOCH₂COOH). It is a colorless, odorless, hygroscopic crystalline solid, highly soluble in water. Widely used in skin care products as an exfoliant and keratolytic to treat acne, hyperpigmentation, and texture irregularities. It is also employed in the textile industry, organic synthesis, and as a pH regulator in cosmetic formulations. It is not a receptor, enzyme, or pharmacologically direct therapeutic target, but rather a bioactive small molecule applied for its chemical properties and topical biological effects
- Other names
- Hydroxyacetic acidHydroxyethanoic acid2-Hydroxyacetic acidGlycolateGlycollic acidHOCH₂COOH
02
Mechanism of action
Keratolytic—removes dead skin cells via exfoliation; lowers skin pH to disrupt cellular cohesion; mild antioxidant effects; increases skin turnover
03
Biological functions
Exfoliation (keratolytic)pH regulationanti-inflammatoryantioxidantantibacterial in topical use
04
Disease associations
Other (used cosmetically to treat skin conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and keratosis; not a molecular target in pathophysiological mechanisms of major diseases)
05
Safety considerations
Skin and eye irritation at high concentrationsincreased photosensitivityerythemaburning sensationitchingskin rashharmful if swallowed or inhaled at high concentrations
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