Glycolic Acid: Uses, Strengths, pH and Safe Handling
Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), sold as colourless crystals or a concentrated water solution. It is used as an exfoliant in toners, serums and rinse-off products aimed at rough texture and dullness, and in industry for metal cleaning, descaling, textile and leather processing.
Last updated 7 Nov 2026
Specifications
- Formula
- C2H4O3
- CAS number
- 79-14-1
- Grades
- Cosmetic
- Hindi name
- ग्लाइकोलिक एसिड
Products and pack sizes
| Product | Grade | Pack | Price (incl. GST) | ₹ per kg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glycolic Acid | Cosmetic | — | ₹199 | — |
What is glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid, also called hydroxyacetic acid, is the simplest alpha hydroxy acid. It is a colourless, odourless solid that dissolves very easily in water, and it is often supplied as a 70% solution for convenience.
- Formula: C2H4O3 (HOCH2COOH)
- CAS number: 79-14-1
- Molar mass: about 76.05 g/mol
- Melting point: about 75 °C
Because the molecule is small, it moves into the top layer of skin easily, where it loosens the bonds between dead surface cells. How strongly it acts depends on both the percentage and the pH of the product, not the percentage alone.
Grades and pack sizes at Azlok
Azlok lists Glycolic Acid under cosmetic raw ingredients, for skincare formulators. Check the label for whether you have crystals or a solution and its strength, since every dilution depends on it. The pack size is on the product page.
| Product | Grade | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| Glycolic Acid | Cosmetic | Toners, serums, rinse-off peels and cleansers |
See today's price per kg.
Common uses
- Skincare: exfoliant in toners, serums, creams and rinse-off products aimed at rough texture, dullness and uneven skin tone.
- Hair and body: in some body lotions and scalp products for its exfoliating effect.
- Industrial cleaning: metal cleaning, boiler and dairy equipment descaling, and rust removal.
- Textiles and leather: as a dyeing and tanning aid.
How to use it
Typical cosmetic levels. A widely cited US expert review (CIR) considers glycolic acid suitable in retail cosmetics at up to 10% with a final pH of 3.5 or higher, with stronger salon products handled by trained professionals. Many home-made toners stay at 5% or below.
| Target in 100 g product | From 70% solution | From crystals |
|---|---|---|
| 5% | 7.1 g | 5 g |
| 8% | 11.4 g | 8 g |
| 10% | 14.3 g | 10 g |
- Always add acid to water, never water to concentrated acid.
- Measure the pH with a meter, not strips, and raise it to your target with small amounts of sodium hydroxide or arginine solution.
- Use a preservative that works at low pH.
- Patch test the finished product on the inner arm for 24 to 48 hours.
AHAs make skin more sensitive to sun, so labels usually advise using sunscreen. Cosmetics sold in India need to meet BIS and CDSCO rules.
Safety and storage
- Concentrated glycolic acid can burn skin and seriously damage eyes. Wear gloves and safety glasses when handling the raw material.
- If it splashes on skin or in eyes, rinse with running water for at least 15 minutes and get medical help for eyes.
- Keep it away from bleach, strong alkalis, oxidisers and reactive metals.
- Store in its original tightly closed plastic or glass container, in a cool place. Crystals absorb moisture from the air.
- Keep away from children.
- Neutralise small leftovers with baking soda in plenty of water before pouring down the drain.
Choosing the right grade and pack
For skincare, stay with the cosmetic listing and confirm the strength on the label. A small pack makes many litres of a 5% toner, so most home formulators don't need more. Small brands and spa suppliers making regular batches can move to larger packs.
Industrial cleaning and textile users needing 25 kg or more should send a bulk inquiry with the form and strength required.
Frequently asked questions
- What percentage of glycolic acid is safe for a home toner?
- Many home formulators keep toners at 5% or below. A widely cited expert review considers up to 10% at pH 3.5 or higher suitable for retail cosmetics. Measure pH with a meter, patch test, and use sunscreen during the day as AHAs increase sun sensitivity.
- How do I make a 5% glycolic acid toner from a 70% solution?
- For 100 g of toner, weigh 7.1 g of 70% glycolic acid solution and add it to about 85 g of distilled water. Add your other ingredients and a low-pH-compatible preservative, check the pH with a meter, then top up with water to 100 g.
- Why is pH important for glycolic acid products?
- Glycolic acid's strength on skin depends on how much is in its free acid form, which rises as pH falls. A 10% product at pH 2.5 is much harsher than one at pH 4. That is why expert guidance sets a minimum pH, not just a maximum percentage.
- Is glycolic acid the same as an AHA?
- Glycolic acid is one type of AHA, or alpha hydroxy acid. It is the smallest one. Lactic acid, mandelic acid and citric acid are other AHAs, each with a different size and feel on skin.
- Can glycolic acid be used for cleaning?
- Yes. Industrial grades are used for metal cleaning, descaling boilers and dairy equipment, and removing rust. For those uses, follow the cleaning product maker's instructions, as concentration and contact time depend on the metal and the deposit.
- Can I mix glycolic acid and salicylic acid in one product?
- Formulators do combine AHAs and BHAs, but it makes the product stronger on skin. Keep each at modest levels, check the final pH, and patch test. If you are new to formulating, start with one acid at a time.