World Glycolic Acid Market: Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Forecast,2017–2023 World Glycolic Acid Market belongs to a group of active compounds known as AHAs (alpha hydroxyl acids), which are primarily found in vegetables and fruits such as sugarcane, pineapple, unripe grapes, etc. Glycolic acid possesses the smallest molecules in the group; this enables quick and easy penetration of human skin. It is therefore very effective in skin treatment and is widely used in cosmetic formulations. Due to the increased adoption of personal care products, the glycolic acid market is witnessing significant growth. Glycolic acid is also used for the manufacturing of poly glycolic acid (PGA) and in absorbable sutures for surgical/medical applications. Improving healthcare standards, particularly in emerging economies, are expected to accelerate the demand for these sutures. This would, in turn, boost the demand for glycolic acid.
Glycolic acid; chemical formula C₂H₄O₃, is the smallest α-hydroxy acid. This colorless, odorless, and hygroscopic crystalline solid is highly soluble in water. Glycolic acid or hydroxyacetic acid (C2H4O3) is a class of chemical compound that consists of carboxylic acid substituted with hydroxyl group on the adjacent carbon. It is a colorless and odorless liquid, and soluble in alcohol at room temperature. It can be processed naturally and synthetically.