Glyceryl Thioglycolate

AKA: Glyceryl monothioglycolate, 30618-84-9, Glycerol monomercaptoacetate, Acetic acid, Monoester with 1, 2, 3-propanetriol, CHEBI:156545, Mercaptoacetic acid
Synthetic
Not Clean
Mercaptoacetic acid, monoester with propane-1,2,3-triol
Formula
C5H10O4S
Mol. Weight
166.20
CAS #
30618-84-9
Form
Liquid
State
Colorless viscous liquid with a mild sulfurous odor; [Lanza Research MSDS]
Functions
Hair Waving Or Straightening
Moisturizing
Strengthens Barrier
Changes hair texture
Traditional Use
A synthetic derivative combining glycerin with thioglycolic acid, developed in the mid-20th century. Created specifically for use in permanent wave (perm) hair treatments and hair straightening formulations.
EWG
5
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUpermitted
JAPANpermitted
CANADApermitted
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper
⚖️Regulatory1 listing
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR