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

Key Ingredients: The non-comedogenic cream features a blend of retinol, glycolic acid, squalane, and shea butter to be effective, yet hydrating. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 16 Oct. 2024

Another expert favorite is the La Roche Posay Glycolic B5 Serum, which combines the exfoliating powers of glycolic acid and the barrier-strengthening benefits of vitamin B5 with kojic acid to diminish dark spots and even out skin tone. —Devon Abelman, Allure, 3 Oct. 2024

Ingredients in this category include resurfacing glycolic acid, purifying muds, clays, and charcoal, and plant extracts like rosemary and sage. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2024

Keep a lookout for ingredients like glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid. —Deanna Pai, Glamour, 2 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary glycol + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined above

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