murphyGlycolic Acid
AKA: 2-Hydroxyacetic acid, 79-14-1, Hydroxyacetic acid, Hydroxyethanoic acid, Glycollic acid, Glycolate, Alpha-Hydroxyacetic acid, 2-Hydroxyethanoic acid, Kyselina glykolova
Synthetic
Chemical Exfoliant
Acid
Not Clean
OriginProduced synthetically from ethylene glycol or through fermentation of sugarcane and sugar beet sources. Synthesized via oxidation of ethylene glycol or chemical conversion of natural sugars through multi-step organic synthesis.
Based on the available information included in this report, the CIR Expert Panel concludes that Glycolic and Lactic Acid, their common salts and their simple esters, are safe for use in cosmetic products at concentrations less than or equal to 10%, at final formulation pH greater than or equal to 3.5, when formulated to avoid increasing sun sensitivity or when directions for use include the daily use of sun protection. These ingredients are safe for use in salon products at concentrations less than or equal to 30%, at final formulation pH greater than or equal to 3.0, in products designed for brief, discontinuous use followed by thorough rinsing from the skin, when applied by trained professionals, and when application is accompanied by directions for the daily use of sun protection...Glycolic Acid...
Formula
C2H4O3
Mol. Weight
76.05
CAS #
79-14-1
State
Solid
Pairs Well With
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Functions
Buffering
Supports cell turnover
Smooths skin texture
Brightens uneven skin tone
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.
EWG
6
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
—
Restricted By
CIR Safety Findings
Not Phototoxic
Product formulation test found no phototoxicity in the CIR safety assessment (CIR 34)
Not Comedogenic
Product formulation test found no comedogenicity in the CIR safety assessment (CIR 34)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
3 studies / 2 irritating / 1 mixed / reactions minimal to corrosive (CIR 34)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
22 studies / 14 irritating / 4 mixed / 4 not irritating / reactions mild to corrosive (CIR 34)
Mixed Sensitization Results
4 studies / 1 sensitizing / 3 not sensitizing (CIR 34)
Dermal Absorption 0.15–38.8%
16 results from in vitro tests in the CIR safety assessment (CIR 34)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.0005–10%
Rinse-off0.0008–50%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2013 survey
Use Caution With
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR