Cosmetic and Skincare Industry

Glycolic acid is widely used in skin care products such as chemical peels, exfoliating creams, anti aging formulations, and acne treatments. It helps remove dead skin cells, stimulate collagen production, and improve skin texture and appearance.

Pharmaceutical Industry

It is used in the formulation of dermatological products and as an intermediate in pharmaceutical synthesis.

Chemical Industry

Glycolic acid is applied as a raw material and intermediate in the production of polymers, resins, adhesives, and specialty chemicals.

Textile and Industrial Applications

It is used in the textile industry for dyeing and finishing processes, as well as in metal cleaning and surface treatment formulations.

Advantages

• High effectiveness due to low molecular weight
• Excellent exfoliating and rejuvenating properties
• Wide range of industrial and cosmetic applications
• High purity grades available for specialized uses

(According to the information provided in the original document)

• Appearance: Colorless to light yellow liquid or crystalline solid
• Molecular Weight: 76.05 g/mol
• Solubility: Completely soluble in water

Glycolic acid is typically supplied as aqueous solutions (for example 50% or 70%), which are corrosive in nature. This substance must be stored in properly labeled, corrosion-resistant containers (preferably plastic or glass).
Keep the container tightly closed and store it in a cool, dry, and well ventilated area. Storage away from direct light and heat sources is recommended.
The material should also be kept out of reach of unauthorized persons, preferably in dedicated corrosive-material cabinets or locked storage.

Avoid storage near strong oxidizing agents or strong bases, as dangerous reactions may occur.
The recommended storage temperature should be moderate (generally below 50 °C and preferably around 10 °C) to prevent decomposition or an increase in vapor pressure.

Concentrated glycolic acid is classified as a hazardous corrosive substance.
For concentrated solutions or solid forms, the assigned UN numbers are typically:

• UN 3265 – Corrosive liquid, organic acid solution
• UN 3261 – Corrosive solid, organic acid

According to transport regulations, it falls under the corrosive substances class and is usually shipped under Packing Group II.

Under IATA air transport regulations, this substance may be transported in approved packaging, provided that corrosive labels and required precautionary measures are strictly observed.
Packaging must be leak-proof, acid resistant, and preferably bear the corrosive hazard symbol.

Hazards in Case of Leakage or Package Damage

Glycolic acid is a strong acid, and in the event of leakage it may cause severe burns to the skin and eyes.
Acid vapors or mists are irritating and corrosive to the respiratory system.

In the event of a spill, use full personal protective equipment (PPE) including acid-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and a suitable respirator, and keep unauthorized personnel away from the area.

Small spills may be neutralized with alkaline materials such as lime or soda ash, and then absorbed.
Never use combustible absorbents, such as sawdust, to absorb acidic solutions.

Important Notice

Contact of the acid with certain metals especially reactive metals such as iron, zinc, etc. may generate flammable hydrogen gas. Therefore, keep spill areas away from sources of ignition and open flames.

Discharge of glycolic acid into sewage systems must be avoided. This substance is harmful to aquatic life and the environment and can cause a severe reduction in water pH.