Glycolic acid

Chemical properties

Glycolic acid, CH20HCOOH, also known as hydroxyacetic acid, is composed of colorless deliquescent leaflets that decompose at approximately 78° C (172 OF). It is soluble in water,alcohol,and ether.Glycolic acid is used in dyeing, tanning, electropolishing,and in foodstuffs. It is produced by oxidizing glycol with dilute nitric acid.

The Uses of Glycolic acid

In the processing of textiles, leather, and metals; in pH control, and wherever a cheap organic acid is needed, e.g. in the manufacture of adhesives, in copper brightening, decontamination cleaning, dyeing, electroplating, in pickling, cleaning and chemical milling of metals.

The Uses of Glycolic acid

glycolic acid (hydroxyacetic acid) reduces corenocyte cohesion and corneum layer thickening where an excess buildup of dead skin cells can be associated with many common skin problems, such as acne, dry and severely dry skin, and wrinkles. glycolic acid acts by dissolving the internal cellular cement responsible for abnormal keratinization, facilitating the sloughing of dead skin cells. It also improves skin hydration by enhancing moisture uptake as well as increasing the skin’s ability to bind water. This occurs in the cellular cement through an activation of glycolic acid and the skin’s own hyaluronic acid content. Hyaluronic acid is known to retain an impressive amount of moisture and this capacity is enhanced by glycolic acid. As a result, the skin’s own ability to raise its moisture content is increased. glycolic acid is the simplest alpha hydroxyacid (AHA). It is also the AHA that scientists and formulators believe has greater penetration potential largely due to its smaller molecular weight. It is mildly irritating to the skin and mucous membranes if the formulation contains a high glycolic acid concentration and/ or a low pH. glycolic acid proves beneficial for acne-prone skin as it helps keep pores clear of excess keratinocytes. It is also used for diminishing the signs of age spots, as well as actinic keratosis. However, glycolic acid is most popularly employed in anti-aging cosmetics because of its hydrating, moisturizing, and skin-normalizing abilities, leading to a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Regardless of the G skin type, glycolic acid use is associated with softer, smoother, healthier, and younger looking skin. glycolic acid is naturally found in sugarcane but synthetic versions are most often used in cosmetic formulations.

What are the applications of Application

Glycolic acid solution is a useful solution of acid for dyeing and tanning, and is often included in emulsion polymers, solvents and additives for ink and paint

What are the applications of Application

Glycolic acid is a constituent of sugar cane juice

Definition

ChEBI: A 2-hydroxy monocarboxylic acid that is acetic acid where the methyl group has been hydroxylated.

Preparation

There are different preparation methods to synthesize glycolic acid. However, the most common method is the catalyzed reaction of formaldehyde with synthesis gas, which costs less. It can be prepared when chloroacetic acid reacts with sodium hydroxide and undergoes re-acidification. Electrolytic reduction of oxalic acid also could synthesize this compound. Glycolic acid can be separated from natural sources like sugarcane, sugar beets, pineapple, cantaloupe, and unripe grapes. It can be prepared by hydrolyzing the cyanohydrin that is derived from formaldehyde.

Benefits

Glycolic acid addresses skin issues by exfoliating dead skin cells that accumulate on the surface of the epidermis and contribute to dull, discolored, and uneven looking skin.

Flammability and Explosibility

Non flammable

Side Effects

Common side effects of Glycolic acid include dry skin, erythema (skin redness), burning sensation, itching, skin irritation, and skin rash. It can make the skin more sensitive in the sunlight, hence always use sunscreen and protective clothing before you step outdoors.

Description

Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and comes from sugarcane. Alpha hydroxy acids are natural acids found in foods. Alpha hydroxy acids, like glycolic acid, work by removing the top layers of dead skin cells. In addition, Glycolic acid also seems to help reverse sun damage to the skin.

Source

Glycolic acid is widespread in nature and can be separated from natural sources like sugarcane, sugar beets, pineapple, cantaloupe, and unripe grapes.

Benefits

Glycolic acid (hydroxyacetic acid) reduces corenocyte cohesion and corneum layer thickening, where an excess buildup of dead skin cells can be associated with many common skin problems, such as acne, dry and severely dry skin, and wrinkles. Glycolic acid acts by dissolving the internal cellular cement responsible for abnormal keratinization, facilitating the sloughing of dead skin cells. It also improves skin hydration by enhancing moisture uptake and increasing the skin’s ability to bind water. This occurs in the cellular cement through an activation of glycolic acid and the skin’s hyaluronic acid content. Hyaluronic acid retains an impressive amount of moisture; glycolic acid enhances this capacity. As a result, the skin’s ability to raise its moisture content is increased. Glycolic acid is the simplest alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). It is also the AHA that scientists and formulators believe has greater penetration potential largely due to its smaller molecular weight. It is mildly irritating to the skin and mucous membranes if the formulation contains a high glycolic acid concentration and/ or a low pH. Glycolic acid benefits acne-prone skin as it helps keep pores clear of excess keratinocytes. It also diminishes the signs of age spots and actinic keratosis. However, glycolic acid is most popularly employed in anti-ageing cosmetics because of its hydrating, moisturizing, and skin-normalizing abilities, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Regardless of the G skin type, glycolic acid use is associated with softer, smoother, healthier, and younger-looking skin. Glycolic acid is naturally found in sugarcane, but synthetic versions are often used in cosmetic formulations.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: There isn't enough reliable information to know if glycolic acid is safe or what the side effects might be.

When applied to the skin: Glycolic acid is likely safe when used in products containing concentrations of 10% glycolic acid or less. However, it is possibly unsafe when used in products containing higher concentrations. Concentrations of greater than 10% glycolic acid should only be used while under the care of a dermatologist. Using high-concentration products inappropriately can cause serious skin reactions.

Purification Methods

Crystallise it from diethyl ether. [Beilstein 3 IV 571.]