Description

Pure Glycolic Acid Powder

In the world of chemical exfoliation, there are the gentle sweepers (lactic acid), the hydrating giants (PHA), and then there is the micro‑sculptor - glycolic acid.

Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha‑hydroxy acid (AHA). With a molecular weight of only 76 Da, it's tiny. It's nimble. It penetrates the skin more deeply and more quickly than any other AHA. And it does something extraordinary: it dissolves the glue that holds dead skin cells together.

The "Brick and Mortar" Analogy: Your stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin) is like a brick wall. The bricks are dead keratinocytes. The mortar is the intercellular lipid matrix and desmosomes. Glycolic acid seeps into that mortar, breaks the desmosomes, and loosens the bricks. They fall away - gently, gradually, painlessly (if formulated correctly).

Underneath those old bricks is newer, fresher, brighter skin. Over weeks of use, glycolic acid doesn't just exfoliate - it signals the deeper layers to produce more collagen and hyaluronic acid. Fine lines soften. Dark spots fade. Pores appear smaller.

The Danger (and Why You Need Respect): Because glycolic acid is so small and so effective, it's also the most irritating AHA if misused. At high concentrations (>20%) and low pH (<3.5), it's a professional peel - not for home use. At lower concentrations (5–10%) and higher pH (3.8–4.5), it's a safe, effective daily exfoliant.

⚠️ Safety Note: Glycolic acid is a strong acid. Always handle with gloves and eye protection. When dissolving powder, add acid to water (not water to acid) to avoid violent splattering. For skin application, always neutralize to pH 3.5–4.5. Never use high concentrations (>20%) on skin without professional training.

Specification: 99.5% – 100.5% (on dried basis)
Sample: Sample Available
Test method: Titration / HPLC / USP method
Synonyms: Glycolic acid, Hydroxyacetic acid, 2-Hydroxyethanoic acid
MOQ: 1 KG | Package: 1kg/foil bag (double-sealed, moisture-proof), 25kgs/fiber drum
Certificate: HACCP, ISO 22000, GMP, Kosher, HALAL (available upon request)
Molecular Formula: C₂H₄O₃ | CAS: 79-14-1

Product Characteristics

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Appearance

Fine, free‑flowing white to off-white crystalline powder; odorless.

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Molecular Weight

76.05 g/mol - the smallest AHA = deepest penetration.

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Solubility

Extremely high - >100 g/100 mL water. Dissolves instantly with mild exotherm.

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pH (1% solution)

2.0 – 2.5 (strongly acidic). Adjust to 3.5–4.5 for skin application.

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Particle Size

>95% pass 80 mesh; micronized available.

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GMP Manufacturing

Synthesized via hydrolysis of glycolonitrile, highly purified to USP/Ph. Eur. grade.

COA (Certificate of Analysis) – USP Grade

Benefits of Pure Glycolic Acid Powder

01Deep Exfoliation (Desquamation)

Glycolic acid breaks down desmosomes - the protein bonds between dead skin cells. Result: smoother texture, reduced flakiness, brighter complexion.

02Collagen Stimulation

Mild controlled inflammation triggers fibroblasts to produce new collagen and elastin. Result: reduced fine lines, firmer, plumper skin.

03Hyaluronic Acid Synthesis

Increases production of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), including hyaluronic acid. Result: enhanced hydration, better moisture retention.

04Brightening & Hyperpigmentation Reduction

Inhibits tyrosinase and accelerates shedding of pigmented cells. Result: fading of dark spots, melasma, and post‑acne marks.

05Pore Cleansing & Refinement

Dissolves the "glue" that holds oil and dead cells inside pores. Result: smaller‑looking pores, reduced blackheads and whiteheads.

06Powder Form Advantages

More stable than liquid, longer shelf life, cheaper to ship, and you control the concentration and pH. Professional formulator's choice.

Application Fields

Cosmetic & Skincare (Primary Market): Daily exfoliating toners & serums (5–10%, pH 3.5–4.0), weekly home peels (10–20%, pH 2.5–3.5), professional in‑office peels (20–70%), body lotions for KP (8–12%), scalp serums for dandruff (5–8%), foot creams for calluses (15–20%).
Pharmaceutical: Wound care (debridement), topical antibiotic/acne combos.
OEM Finished Products: Daily exfoliating toner, home peel pads, acne clearing serum, KP body lotion, brightening face wash, exfoliating mist - full custom manufacturing available.

Production Process

Production process of Glycolic Acid

Product Quality Advantage

≥99.5% Purity – USP/Ph. Eur. grade, highest purity available.

Low Impurities – Glycolide ≤0.2%, diglycolic acid ≤0.05%.

Low Water Content – ≤0.3%, minimizes degradation.

Low Heavy Metals – Pb <0.5 ppm, total heavy metals <2 ppm.

Powder Form – Stable, economical, professional.

cGMP Certified – Full traceability and documentation.

Annual Capacity: 1,500 Tons | 15+ years of cosmetic ingredient expertise

Professional ODM/OEM Services

We provide full OEM/ODM manufacturing for finished products featuring Glycolic Acid as the key active.

① Finished Skincare Products
Glycolic Acid 10% Daily Exfoliating Toner: pH 3.8, with soothing ingredients.
Glycolic Acid 30% Home Peel Pads: Individually wrapped, pre‑saturated.
Glycolic Acid + Salicylic Acid Acne Clearing Serum: Dual exfoliation.
Glycolic Acid 15% Body Lotion for KP: With ceramides, moisturizing.
Glycolic Acid 7% Brightening Face Wash: Rinse‑off gentle daily use.
Glycolic Acid + Lactic Acid 1:1 Exfoliating Mist.

② Formulation Support
pH adjustment (target 3.5–4.5 for daily use), irritation reduction (add allantoin, bisabolol, oat extract), preservative selection, neutralizer production (sodium bicarbonate solution for professional peels), stability testing (monitor degradation over 12–24 months).

③ Additional Services
Third‑party certification (Kosher, HALAL), regulatory documentation (EU Cosmetic Regulation, FDA compliance).

Export Certificates

Certificates HACCP ISO GMP Kosher HALAL

Why choose us

XI'AN LANDNUTRA CO., LTD. – Your Trusted Manufacturer of Antioxidant & Functional Ingredients. Rooted in Quality, Driven by Expertise, Committed to Health and Excellence.

Strong Production Capability: Annual capacity 1,500 tons. 15+ years experience, own facility.
Leading Service: ONE-STOP OEM/ODM from pre-sales to after-sales.
Quality Assurance: CQC-certified enterprise, purity embedded in every process.
Broad Market: Botanical Extracts, Cosmetic Ingredients, Functional Ingredients.

15+ years of cosmetic ingredient sourcing and formulation. cGMP‑certified facilities. Full in‑house OEM/ODM capabilities for exfoliating products. Regulatory documentation for global markets. Batch‑specific COA including assay, water content, glycolide, diglycolic acid, and heavy metals. Technical support for formulation (dissolving, pH adjustment, irritation mitigation).

FAQ

Q1: Glycolic acid powder vs. liquid - which should I use?

A: Powder is more stable, cheaper to ship, and has a longer shelf life. You dissolve it to your desired concentration. Liquid (70% solution) is more convenient for small batches but degrades over time. For large‑scale manufacturing, powder is the professional choice.

Q2: Is glycolic acid safe for dark skin?

A: Yes, if used correctly. It's excellent for hyperpigmentation common in darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV–VI). However, there is a higher risk of post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) if used improperly. Start with low concentrations (5–8%), use sunscreen daily, and avoid over‑exfoliating.

Q3: Does glycolic acid make skin sensitive to the sun?

A: Yes. Glycolic acid thins the stratum corneum, and new skin underneath is more vulnerable to UV damage. Sunscreen is not optional. Use SPF 30+ every single day, even indoors (UVA penetrates windows).

Q4: Can I use glycolic acid with vitamin C (L‑ascorbic acid)?

A: Yes, but be careful. Both require low pH (3.0–3.5) for stability. Some people find the combination irritating. Apply them at different times of day (glycolic acid PM, vitamin C AM) or use a formulation with soothing ingredients.

Q5: How do I adjust the pH of glycolic acid solution?

A: Dissolve powder in water. Measure pH. Slowly add a base (10% sodium hydroxide, triethanolamine, or ammonium hydroxide) while stirring. Stop when target pH is reached (3.5–4.5 for daily toners). Re‑check pH after 24 hours (it may drift). Do not over‑basify - glycolic acid loses efficacy above pH 5.

Q6: What is the difference between glycolic acid and lactic acid?

A: Glycolic acid is smaller (76 Da) → penetrates deeper, works faster, more irritating. Lactic acid is larger (90 Da) → more hydrating, gentler, better for dry/sensitive skin. Many formulators use a blend (e.g., 70% glycolic + 30% lactic) for balanced exfoliation.

Q7: Does glycolic acid expire?

A: Yes. In dry powder form, stable for 24 months if stored properly (sealed, desiccated, cool). In solution, degrades over 12–24 months. Degraded glycolic acid turns yellow/brown and develops a strong, unpleasant odor. Discard if off.

Q8: Can I use glycolic acid on my scalp?

A: Yes - for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Use a 5–8% solution, apply to damp scalp, leave 5–10 minutes, rinse. Do not use high concentrations; the scalp is sensitive.

Q9: Is glycolic acid vegan?

A: Yes - it's a simple organic molecule; no animal products involved. Our synthetic grade is definitely animal‑free. Fermentation grade may use bacterial enzymes (not animal).

Q10: Can I use glycolic acid while pregnant or nursing?

A: Topical glycolic acid at low concentrations (≤10%) is generally considered safe during pregnancy (no systemic absorption). However, consult your healthcare provider. Avoid high‑concentration peels (≥20%) during pregnancy.

Q11: Why does my glycolic acid powder smell like burnt sugar?

A: It shouldn't. Pure glycolic acid is odorless. A burnt sugar/caramel smell indicates degradation - moisture and heat exposure. The powder has absorbed water and started to form glycolide. Discard it; it's less effective and may cause irritation.

Q12: What is the maximum concentration I can dissolve in water?

A: Glycolic acid is extremely soluble. You can make a 70–80% solution easily. At >80%, the solution becomes very viscous and may crystallize upon cooling. For typical cosmetic use (5–30%), no solubility issues.

Test Item	Specification (USP/Ph. Eur.)	Test Result	Conclusion
Appearance	White to off-white crystalline powder	Conforms	Pass
Assay (Titration)	99.5% – 100.5%	99.8%	Pass
Water Content (KF)	≤1.0%	0.3%	Pass
Residue on Ignition	≤0.05%	0.02%	Pass
Lead (Pb)	≤2 ppm	<0.5 ppm	Pass
Glycolide	≤0.5%	0.2%	Pass
Diglycolic Acid	≤0.2%	0.05%	Pass
Chloride (as Cl)	≤0.005%	<0.001%	Pass
Total Plate Count	≤1,000 cfu/g	<100 cfu/g	Pass
E. Coli / Salmonella	Negative	Negative	Pass

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