Glycolic Acid — Allergy Risk & Safety Profile
INCI: GLYCOLIC ACID
Also known as: AHA, Alpha Hydroxy Acid
Key Facts
- CAS Number
- 79-14-1
- Category
- active
- Risk Level
- medium
- Common Allergen
- No
- EU Status
- Restricted
- Max Concentration
- 4% (consumer)
- Found In
- exfoliant, toner, peel
Is Glycolic Acid safe in cosmetics?
Glycolic Acid is rated medium risk in cosmetic products. It is not classified as a common allergen and is generally well-tolerated by most skin types. This ingredient is restricted under EU cosmetic regulations. Commonly found in exfoliant, toner, peel.
What is Glycolic Acid?
Smallest AHA with best penetration. Chemical exfoliant for anti-aging and texture. Can cause irritation and sun sensitivity.
Allergy & Safety Information
Start with low concentration (5-7%). Increases sun sensitivity — always use sunscreen. Not recommended for very sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.
This ingredient carries moderate allergenicity risk. It can cause reactions in sensitised individuals but has a lower sensitisation rate than high-risk ingredients. Patch testing before full use is advisable for anyone with a history of cosmetic reactions.
About Active Ingredient Ingredients
Active ingredients are formulated to produce a specific skin benefit — exfoliation, brightening, anti-ageing, or acne treatment. They work by interacting directly with skin biology, which also means they carry higher irritation potential than passive ingredients like emollients or thickeners.
Relevance for Glycolic Acid: Actives often require an adjustment period during which temporary redness, dryness, or sensitivity is normal. However, persistent reactions after 4–6 weeks of use, or reactions that worsen rather than improve, suggest true intolerance. Introduce only one active at a time to identify the cause of any reaction.
How to Identify Glycolic Acid in Products
Cosmetic ingredients are listed by their INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name in descending order of concentration. To check whether a product contains Glycolic Acid, scan the ingredient list for its INCI name exactly as it appears above. Ingredients present at 1% or less may appear in any order after the 1% threshold.
Product types to prioritise checking: Exfoliant, Toner, Peel. These product categories are the most common sources of Glycolic Acid exposure based on formulation data.
Not sure if your products contain Glycolic Acid? Paste the ingredient list into the free ingredient checker to scan for Glycolic Acid and other allergens automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Glycolic Acid safe for sensitive skin?
Glycolic Acid may cause reactions in some sensitive individuals. Patch testing is advisable.
What products contain Glycolic Acid?
Glycolic Acid is commonly found in exfoliant, toner, peel.
What does Glycolic Acid do in cosmetics?
Glycolic Acid functions as a active in formulations.
Related Guides
Anti-Aging for Sensitive Skin
The safest actives for sensitive skin and how to use them.
How to Read Ingredient Labels
Decode INCI names and find hidden allergens in your products.
Find Your Skin Allergy Trigger
Step-by-step elimination method to identify your trigger.
Contact Dermatitis Guide
Symptoms, causes, patch testing, and treatment options.
Is Glycolic Acid causing YOUR skin reactions?
SkinDetekt tracks your products and reactions to find your personal triggers. Download the app to find out.
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