Skincare Ingredient
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Glycolic Acid
In Skincare: Is Glycolic Acid Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
Glycolic acid is the most extensively researched alpha hydroxy acid (AHA).
- 02
This ingredient helps to exfoliate and renew the skin's surface.
- 03
Glycolic acid visibly improves several signs of aging, according to its properties.
- 04
It significantly increases skin hydration by improving moisture retention.
- 05
Recent research suggests that glycolic acid may offer some protection against ultraviolet (UV) damage.
- 06
Glycolic acid has a long-established history of safe use in cosmetic formulations.
Key Benefits
What Glycolic Acid does for your skin
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Data & Research
Scientific Facts
Common Uses
Formulation in Glycolic Acid
Role of Glycolic Acid
Active Cosmetic Mechanisms
BUFFERING
pH StabilizerMaintains stable pH levels in products
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Buffering systems resist pH changes through weak acid-conjugate base pairs (citric acid/sodium citrate, lactic acid/sodium lactate, phosphate salts) that operate within specific pH ranges based on their pKa values. The mechanism follows the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation, with buffer components neutralizing added H⁺ or OH⁻ ions. Proper buffering prevents pH drift and maintains efficacy.
Products
containing Glycolic Acid
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References
Scientific sources
Molecules, April 2018, 23(4), ePublication
DNA Cell Biology, February 2017, pages 177-187
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, October 2015, pages 21-26
BioMed Research International, 2015, Volume 2015
Dermatology Research and Practice, February 2015, Volume 2015
Similar Ingredients
Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Glycolic Acid — common questions
What is Glycolic Acid in skincare?
Glycolic acid and lactic acid are both alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). AHAs are naturally occurring organic acids, either produced synthetically or derived from sources like sugar cane (glycolic acid) and milk (lactic acid). Salts and esters of both glycolic and lactic acids are also frequently used in cosmetic formulations. These derivatives include ammonium glycolate, sodium glycolate, ammonium lactate, calcium lactate, potassium lactate, sodium lactate and TEA-lactate (all glycolic acid salts), a
What does Glycolic Acid do? / Functions of Glycolic Acid?
Common functions: BUFFERING.
What is the comedogenic rating of Glycolic Acid? / Is Glycolic Acid comedogenic?
Glycolic Acid has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is unlikely to clog pores.
Does it clog pores?
Glycolic Acid is unlikely to clog pores (rating 1/5).
Is Glycolic Acid safe for skin?
Glycolic Acid has a safety rating of 3 out of 5. A rating of 3 indicates moderate safety considerations. Note: Glycolic acid is generally recognized as safe for topical use at concentrations up to 10% in cosmetics, according to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel. However, it may cause irritation
Is Glycolic Acid good for sensitive skin?
Glycolic Acid has an irritancy rating of 4 out of 5. A rating of 4 means it has high irritation potential.
What are the side effects of Glycolic Acid in skincare?
Known considerations: Glycolic acid is generally recognized as safe for topical use at concentrations up to 10% in cosmetics, according to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel. However, it may cause irritation, especially in individuals with sensitive skin, and formulations with concentrations above 10% or lower pH levels may increase the risk of skin damage and photosensitivity. Additional risks: skin irritation (irritancy rating 4/5).