What Is Glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid is a liquid substance found in sugar cane that can be used in cosmetics to help control the pH of a product. It is colorless and odorless, and can also be found as solid, colorless crystals that absorb moisture from the air. Glycolic acid is also known as 2-hydroxyacetic acid or hydroxyacetic acid. In terms of health effects, it has been shown to break down cholesterol and may cause slight inflammation or discomfort in the body. It is classified as a diuretic, which means it helps increase urine production.
What is the purpose of Glycolic acid in personal care products?
It is used for its buffering
characteristics.
Glycolic acid regulates the pH balance.
Names and identifiers that we found for this substance include: Glycolic Acid and Hydroxyacetic acid.
What Are Buffering Ingredients?
Glycolic acid has buffering characteristics.
Buffering ingredients helps regulate and maintain the pH balance of cosmetic products. The pH scale is a method used to determine a mixture's acidity or alkalinity level. Our skin's natural pH balance helps it stay healthy and function properly. When cosmetic products are applied to the skin, they can alter the pH balance, potentially causing irritation or other adverse effects.
Buffering ingredients neutralize or adjust the pH of cosmetic products to match that of the skin, which helps minimize the risk of irritation or damage. By maintaining a consistent pH balance, buffering ingredients can also improve the stability and effectiveness of a product's active ingredients.
Types of Buffering Ingredients
Here are some of the most common types of buffering ingredients:
Alkalis: These have a high pH and are used to neutralize acids. They help maintain the product's pH within a desired range.
Acids: These have a low pH and are used to neutralize alkalis. They help maintain the cosmetic product's pH within a desired range.
Salts: These are formed when an acid and a base (alkali) are mixed. They help maintain the cosmetic product's stability by preventing changes in pH caused by external factors such as heat or exposure to air.
Safety
Remember, always read and follow the instructions provided on product labels carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about using a product containing various ingredients, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before use.