Glycolic Acid
⚠ EU RestrictedAlso known as: Glycolic Acid 70%, Glycolic Acid
Identification
CAS Number 79-14-1
EINECS / EC 201-180-5
CosIng Ref 34147
Chemical Name 2-hydroxyacetic acid
IUPAC Name —
Formula C2H4O3
Mol. Weight 76.05 g/mol
InChIKey AEMRFAOFKBGASW-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Function & Classification
Primary Function Exfoliant
Secondary Functions Keratolytic, Astringent
Category Skin Actives
Manufacturer The Chemours Company
EU Regulatory Status
Max Leave-on 6%
Restrictions Max 6% (leave-on, pH ≥ 3.5). Must include sun protection advice when used in leave-on products.
Conditions of Use Max 6% (leave-on, rinse-off). pH ≥ 3.5. Sun protection advice required on label. Professional use: max 10% (pH ≥ 3.5) or 50% (pH 1.0-3.5, max exposure 30 min, professional only).
Mandatory Warning Contains AHA. Apply sunscreen and limit sun exposure while using and for a week afterwards.
SCCS Opinion View SCCS opinion →
Safety Profile
2 / 10
Comedogenic Rating: 0/5
Will not clog pores — safe for acne-prone skin
Skin Type Compatibility
Acne-Prone ✓ Safe
Fungal Acne Safe ✓ Safe
Toxicology Profile
NOAEL 2000 mg/kg bw/day (oral, rat, 90-day) SCCS/1609/19
Sensitization Non-sensitizer
Genotoxicity Non-genotoxic
Phototoxicity Non-phototoxic
Dermal Absorption 10%
LD₅₀ Oral 2040 mg/kg (rat)
LD₅₀ Dermal >5000 mg/kg (rabbit)
Skin Irritation (Draize) 2.0 / 4.0 ⚠
Eye Irritation (Draize) 2.5 / 4.0 ⚠
Source SCCS Opinion ↗
Formulation Guidelines
pH Stability 0.5 – 2
Benefits Exfoliation; anti-aging; brightening
Suppliers & Documents
The Chemours Company 🌍 USA
Documents