Glycolic Acid (CAS 79-14-1): The Smallest AHA Behind Every Real Exfoliating Formula
A practical supplier guide to Glycolic acid (CAS 79-14-1, C2H4O3, MW 76.05): what the smallest AHA is (white crystalline, mp 75-80 C, water-soluble, hygroscopic, pH ~2 at 50 g/L), how it exfoliates and supports collagen, how it stacks against salicylic and azelaic acids and pairs with brighteners, peptides, squalane and retinol, its industrial uses beyond cosmetics, and handling and grade notes for buyers.
