glycolic acid

Thân thiện

A scientist carefully measures glycolic acid in a laboratory.

Definition

Noun: A translucent crystalline compound (chemical formula: C₂H₄O₃) that occurs naturally in some plants, such as sugarcane, sugar beets, and unripe grapes. It is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA).

Usage

Glycolic acid is primarily discussed in the contexts of chemistry, skincare, and industrial applications. * In chemistry, it is studied as a simple organic acid. * In skincare and cosmetics, it is a common active ingredient used for its exfoliating properties. * In industrial processes, it is used in textile treatments, leather tanning, and as a cleaning agent.

Examples

• Chemistry/Origin:
  • Glycolic acid can be isolated from sugarcane.
  • The study analyzed the natural concentration of glycolic acid in unripe fruits.
• Skincare:
  • This facial toner contains glycolic acid to help remove dead skin cells.
  • Dermatologists often recommend creams with glycolic acid for treating acne scars.

Advanced Usage

• "Glycolic acid peel": A cosmetic procedure where a concentrated solution of glycolic acid is applied to the skin to improve its texture and appearance.
  • She scheduled a professional glycolic acid peel to address sun damage.
• In organic synthesis, glycolic acid serves as a monomer for producing biodegradable polymers like polyglycolic acid.

Variants and Related Words

• Glycolate (noun): A salt or ester of glycolic acid.
  • Ammonium glycolate is sometimes used in gentle exfoliating products.
• Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) (noun): The class of compounds to which glycolic acid belongs. Other AHAs include citric acid and lactic acid.

Synonyms

• Hydroxyacetic acid (noun): The systematic IUPAC name for glycolic acid.
• 2-Hydroxyethanoic acid (noun): An alternative chemical name.

Related Phrases

• Glycolic acid solution: Refers to the compound dissolved in a liquid, typically water, at a specific concentration for use in products or treatments.
  • The chemical supplier provides a 70% glycolic acid solution.

Học thuật

Noun

1. a translucent crystalline compound found in sugar cane and sugar beets and unripe grapes

Từ đồng nghĩa

• glycollic acid
• hydroxyacetic acid