glycolic acid

noun

gly·​col·​ic acid (ˌ)glī-ˈkä-lik- 

variants or glycollic acid

: an alpha hydroxy acid C₂H₄O₃ found especially in unripe grapes and sugar beets and used especially in textile and leather processing and in skin-care treatments especially as an exfoliant

Examples of glycolic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The pointed applicator offers precise application, ensuring its blend of glycolic acid, BHAs, and PHAs can eliminate flaking and reduce surface oils. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 1 Aug. 2025

From gentle, hydrating PHAs to more potent blends with salicylic or glycolic acid, there’s truly a pick for everyone. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 3 July 2025

La Roche-Posay’s toner, too, leads with salicylic acid—working alongside glycolic acid to unclog pores and smooth bumpy skin. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 7 Feb. 2025

Lactic and glycolic acids work to slough away dead cells on the skin’s surface, while azelaic and tranexamic acids inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 29 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary glycol + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for glycolic acid

• antacid
• placid

Medical Definition

glycolic acid

noun

variants also glycollic acid

: an alpha hydroxy acid C₂H₄O₃ that is oxidized to glyoxylic acid in photosynthesis, is used as an agent to produce chemical peels in cutaneous rejuvenation treatments, and is the major toxic metabolite in ethylene glycol poisoning

called also hydroxyacetic acid