GLYCOLIC ACID
GLYCOLIC ACID is a cosmetic ingredient classified as Buffering. Also known as AHA, CAS 79-14-1. It is regulated in 2 markets including Australia, Canada.
Also Known As
- Common names
- AHA, ALPHA HYDROXY ACID
- CAS Number
- 79-14-1
Market Overview — 29 Markets
Detailed Regulations
EuropeNo restrictions
No specific restrictions for GLYCOLIC ACID in European Union, United Kingdom.
Americas1 regulation
- Chemical name
- Alpha-hydroxy acids, including polyhydroxy acids and bionic acids with alpha hydroxyl groups, and their salts
- CAS
- 79-14-1
- Max concentration
- a) Between 3% and 18% total mono-AHA equivalents with a pH equal to or greater than 3.5 b) Between 18% and 30% total mono-AHA equivalents and/or a pH between 3.0 to 3.5 d) Between 3% and 30% total mono-AHA equivalents with a pH equal to or greater than 3.0 3%
- Conditions of use
- a) Products for use on the skin for consumer use Manufacturer or importer to provide pH levels b) Products for use on the skin for professional use Manufacturer or importer to provide evidence of safety, including: pH levels AHA concentrations directions for use clinical studies demonstrating minimal skin irritation c) Products intended to be diluted in bath water may contain levels of AHAs exceeding 10% d) Other cosmetics e) Any cosmetics | Warning: a) and b) "Use only as directed" "Avoid contact with the eyes" "If irritation persists, discontinue use and consult a physician" "It is recommended that prior to exposure to the sun, users cover areas where AHAs have been applied with sunscreen" Product labels should contain appropriate directions regarding frequency and/or duration of use b only) "For professional use only" d) "Use only as directed" "Avoid contact with eyes" "Discontinue use if rash or irritation occurs"
Source: Health Canada Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist
East Asia & Oceania1 regulation
- Chemical name
- GLYCOLIC ACID (including its salts and esters) in cosmetic products or when packed and
- Conditions of use
- labelled for use as an agricultural chemical except: (a) in cosmetic preparations for salon use only, when labelled in accordance with requirements under applicable jurisdictional Work Health and Safety laws, as amended from time to time; or (b) in preparations containing 5% or less of glycolic acid; or (c) in preparations containing 20% or less of glycolic acid with a pH of 3.5 or greater.
Source: TGA SUSMP F2026L00060
ASEANNo restrictions
No specific restrictions for GLYCOLIC ACID in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines.
GCCNo restrictions
No specific restrictions for GLYCOLIC ACID in UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain.
EAEUNo restrictions
No specific restrictions for GLYCOLIC ACID in Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GLYCOLIC ACID banned in any country?
GLYCOLIC ACID is not banned in any of the 26 markets tracked by Formpli. However, it may be subject to restrictions or conditions of use in some markets.
What are the restrictions on GLYCOLIC ACID in cosmetics?
GLYCOLIC ACID is restricted or has conditions of use in Australia, Canada. Restrictions may include maximum concentration limits, product type limitations, or mandatory labeling requirements. See the detailed regulations above for specifics.
Can I use GLYCOLIC ACID in cosmetics?
GLYCOLIC ACID is regulated in 2 markets. It has restrictions in Australia, Canada. Use Formpli's free screening tool to check your full ingredient list against all 26 markets at once.
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Check Ingredients FreeThis information is for reference only and does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. Regulations change — always verify with official sources and consult a regulatory specialist before exporting cosmetic products. Data sourced from EU COSING, US FDA, Health Canada, MHLW Japan, MFDS Korea, ASEAN ACD, GCC SFDA, TGA Australia, ANVISA Brazil, EAEU TR CU, and Taiwan TFDA.