Glycolic Acid (10% Solution)

• 10% glycolic acid concentration in deionized water — pre-diluted for precise, consistent incorporation
• Derived from high-purity (99%) glycolic acid for reliable performance and clean ingredient sourcing
• Simplifies pH control compared to working with neat glycolic acid — easier to formulate within safe cosmetic pH ranges
• Compatible with serums, lotions, toners, masks, and rinse-off formulations
• INCI: Water (Aqua), Glycolic Acid — two-ingredient composition for straightforward labeling

Intended Use

Designed as a formulation ingredient for cosmetic products positioned around exfoliation, skin texture refinement, and a brighter, more even-looking complexion. Suitable for incorporation into serums, toners, lotions, facial masks, and rinse-off products.

Customization Notes

• Adjust final concentration in your formulation to achieve the desired cosmetic effect — always verify final pH falls within safe cosmetic use ranges
• Combine with other AHAs (lactic acid, mandelic acid) or pair with hydrating ingredients (hyaluronic acid, aloe) for a balanced, multi-step exfoliation line
• Essential to perform final stability and preservation testing when incorporating into custom formulations

Option 1: Weekly At-Home Exfoliation

1. Cleanse your face thoroughly and pat dry.
2. Using a cotton pad, apply a thin, even layer of the glycolic acid solution across the face, avoiding the eye area and lips.
3. Leave on for the duration recommended by your brand's formulation guidelines — skin may feel a mild tingling sensation.
4. Rinse thoroughly with cool water and follow with a hydrating moisturizer. Skin looks visibly refreshed and feels smoother to the touch.

Option 2: Professional Resurfacing Prep

1. Begin with a gentle double cleanse to ensure skin is completely free of makeup, oil, and residue.
2. Apply the glycolic acid solution with a fan brush in thin, even strokes across the forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin — maintain consistent coverage for a uniform experience.
3. Monitor the skin throughout the application period, then neutralize or rinse as directed by your formulation protocol.
4. Follow immediately with a calming, hydrating serum and a rich moisturizer to leave the complexion feeling comfortable and conditioned.
5. Always finish with broad-spectrum SPF the following morning, as freshly exfoliated skin is more sensitive to sun exposure.

Option 3: Targeted Texture-Refining Step

1. After cleansing, identify areas where skin looks dull or feels rough — often the forehead, nose, and chin.
2. Dip a cotton swab into the glycolic acid solution and apply only to those targeted zones, avoiding any areas that feel sensitive or irritated.
3. Leave on for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.
4. Pat dry and apply a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid or aloe to those same areas. Over time with consistent weekly use, the targeted zones look more polished and the complexion appears more even-toned.

INCI: Water (Aqua), Glycolic Acid

Warning Statements:

For external use in cosmetic and personal care formulations only. Not for ingestion. Avoid direct contact with eyes. Handle using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and lab coat. Store sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Keep the container tightly closed when not in use. Follow all applicable GMP guidelines when formulating and conducting stability and microbial testing.

Technical Specs:

• Appearance: clear to light pink viscous liquid
• Suggested Usage Rate: 1–10% depending on formulation type and desired exfoliation profile. Do not use by itself, as pH is around 2 and safe cosmetic final formulation must be above pH 3.5
• Functions: Skin Conditioning Agent, Alpha Hydroxy Acid Source, Humectant, Texture Enhancer
• CAS Number: 56-81-5, 6915-15-7, 87-69-4, 77-92-9, 79-14-1, 50-21-5
• Preserved With: Self Preserved

Data Sheet:

• Safety Data Sheet