Glycolic Acid (CAS 79-14-1, 2-hydroxyacetic acid, MW 76.05) is the smallest and most penetrating AHA — the benchmark ingredient for chemical exfoliation, anti-aging and skin renewal. Bulk glycolic acid delivers visible results at 5%–10%, making it a core active for professional skincare lines and home-care peels.
Physical & Chemical Properties
- INCI: Glycolic Acid
- CAS number: 79-14-1
- Appearance: clear to slightly yellowish liquid (as supplied) or crystalline solid
- Solubility: fully water soluble, soluble in ethanol
- Molecular formula: C2H4O3
- Molecular weight: 76.05 g/mol (smallest AHA)
- Ionic type: AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid), most penetrating
- Source: sugar cane / synthetic
Key Benefits for Formulation
- Strongest AHA penetration: delivers visible exfoliation and skin renewal
- Anti-aging: stimulates collagen, reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Skin brightening: improves texture, tone and radiance
- Proven efficacy: effective at 5%–10% in professional and home-care peels
- Benchmark active: the reference standard for chemical exfoliation
Main Applications
- Anti-aging serums & creams: collagen stimulation
- Chemical peel products: professional and home-care
- Brightening & texture-refining formulations: tone and radiance
- Professional skincare lines: clinic and salon use
- Body exfoliation & smoothing treatments
Why Choose Our Bulk Glycolic Acid?
- GMP manufacturing: full quality control from raw material to finished product
- Complete documentation: COA, SDS and heavy metal test reports available on request
- Flexible supply: MOQ and lead time on inquiry, from R&D samples to mass production
- Export experience: reliable shipping to EU, North America, Australia and Middle East
Recommended Usage
5%–10% in professional and home-care peels; lower concentrations (2%–5%) for daily leave-on products. Higher concentrations require neutralization and professional protocols. For external use only.
FAQ About Wholesale Glycolic Acid
What is the CAS number of glycolic acid?
CAS 79-14-1 (2-hydroxyacetic acid, molecular weight 76.05).
What is the INCI name?
Glycolic Acid.
Is glycolic acid water soluble?
Yes — it is fully water soluble and soluble in ethanol.
Why is glycolic acid the strongest AHA?
It has the smallest molecular size (76.05 g/mol) of all AHAs, allowing the deepest skin penetration and fastest visible results.
What dosage is effective?
5%–10% in peels; 2%–5% in daily leave-on products, adjusted to skin tolerance.
Does it require neutralization?
Higher concentrations (especially in peels) require neutralization and professional protocols.
What is the molecular formula?
C2H4O3.
Start Your Glycolic Acid Bulk Order
Contact our sales team today for spec sheets, samples and bulk pricing — our technical team is ready to support your formulation development.