INCI page

GLYOXYLIC ACID

Last update on May 23, 2024
Glyoxylic Acid is a hair straightener widely used in styling cosmetics. It came as an excellent alternative to formaldehyde which causes severe damage to human health. Glyoxylic Acid is not only safer but also more effective. It also works as an anti-static and softening agent. In its raw form, it appears as a transparent liquid that is colorless to light yellow with an obnoxious odor. The chemical formula of Glyoxylic Acid is C2H2O3 and is also known as Oxoacetic acid.
CAS Number: 298-12-4Chem/IUPAC Name: Glyoxylic acidEINECS/ELINCS No: 206-058-5COSING REF No: 34158

Products with GLYOXYLIC ACID

See all products
With samples available

Glyoxylic Acid (Maian)

by Maian

INCI: GLYOXYLIC ACID
  • Sustainable option
See the product

Glyoxylic acid (Connect Chemicals)

by Connect Chemicals

INCI: GLYOXYLIC ACID
  • Sustainable option
See the product

Glyoxylic Acid 50H

by Akema

INCI: GLYOXYLIC ACID | AQUA
See the product

What is GLYOXYLIC ACID used for?

Glyoxylic Acid is a highly beneficial ingredient in the world of cosmetics.
  • Hair care: Glyoxylic Acid is used in hair treatments, particularly in hair straightening and smoothing products. It helps to break and reform disulfide bonds in hair, reducing frizz and curliness, resulting in smoother, shinier hair. Its milder action compared to traditional keratin treatments makes it a popular choice
  • Skin care: In skincare, Glyoxylic Acid functions as an exfoliant and a skin-brightening agent. It helps remove dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and improving skin texture. Additionally, it can reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone, contributing to a more radiant and youthful appearance

Origin

Glyoxylic Acid is produced through the nitric acid oxidation of glyoxal, a simple dialdehyde. The process involves treating glyoxal with nitric acid, which converts it into Glyoxylic Acid via oxidative reaction. Alternatively, it can be synthesized by the hydrolysis of dichloroacetic acid.

What does GLYOXYLIC ACID do in a formulation?

ANTISTATIC|
HAIR CONDITIONING|
HAIR WAVING OR STRAIGHTENING|
SKIN CONDITIONING|
SMOOTHING

Safety Profile

Glyoxylic Acid is generally considered safe when used in low concentrations. It is formulated to minimize the risk of irritation and adverse reactions. However, it can cause mild skin and eye irritation in sensitive individuals if used improperly. Regulatory bodies set limits on its concentration to ensure safety. Users are advised to follow product instructions carefully and perform patch tests before use.

GLYOXYLIC ACID alternatives

GLYOXYLIC ACID technical profile

Property Values
Boiling Point 111°C
Melting Point -93°C
Solubility Highly soluble in water