Glyoxylic Acid in Cosmetics: A Key Ingredient for Hair Straightening and Skin Care

Glyoxylic Acid (CAS 298-12-4) is an important organic compound that plays a versatile role in both the cosmetic and chemical industries. Known for its mild reactivity and functional versatility, it is widely used in hair straightening treatments, skincare formulations, and as a chemical intermediate in various products. In recent years, Glyoxylic Acid has gained attention as a safer alternative to formaldehyde in hair smoothing systems, making it a preferred choice among cosmetic chemists and professional stylists.

I. What Is Glyoxylic Acid?

Glyoxylic Acid is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with the chemical formula C₂H₂O₃. It is usually available as a Glyoxylic Acid 50% solution, which provides excellent stability and easy handling in industrial and cosmetic applications. This compound has both aldehyde and carboxylic acid functional groups, allowing it to react with various organic compounds and modify the structure of keratin proteins in hair.

In commercial use, Glyoxylic Acid solution is often chosen for its balance of performance, safety, and compatibility with other cosmetic ingredients.

II. Glyoxylic Acid for Hair Straightening

One of the most common cosmetic applications of Glyoxylic Acid is in hair smoothing and straightening products. Traditional keratin treatments often rely on formaldehyde or its derivatives, which can cause irritation and potential health risks. In contrast, Glyoxylic Acid for hair provides a gentler alternative with impressive smoothing effects.

When heated during the hair treatment process, Glyoxylic Acid in hair products reacts with the amino groups in hair keratin, helping to reorganize and seal the structure of the hair shaft. This process smooths frizz, reduces curl, and enhances shine—without the harsh smell or irritation of formaldehyde-based formulas.

Many professional hair care brands now formulate glyoxylic acid-based hair straighteners to meet growing consumer demand for safer, eco-conscious beauty products.

III. How Glyoxylic Acid Benefits Skin Care

Beyond hair care, Glyoxylic Acid also appears in skincare formulations. It acts as a mild exfoliating and pH-adjusting agent, helping to remove dead skin cells and promote skin renewal. Its gentle acidity makes it suitable for facial creams, lotions, and cleansing gels, especially in controlled concentrations.

When formulated correctly, Glyoxylic Acid solution helps maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance while improving texture and radiance—offering a subtle rejuvenating effect without strong irritation.

IV. Glyoxylic Acid 50%: A Practical Form for Cosmetic Use

Most Glyoxylic Acid suppliers offer the product as a 50% aqueous solution, balancing concentration and safety. This form is ideal for formulating cosmetic and personal care products, as it provides good solubility, reactivity, and handling properties.

Manufacturers can use Glyoxylic Acid 50% directly in formulations for hair straightening creams, shampoos, or lotions. It is also compatible with conditioning agents, surfactants, and stabilizers commonly used in cosmetic systems.

V. Industrial and Chemical Uses

In addition to cosmetics, Glyoxylic Acid (CAS 298-12-4) serves as an essential intermediate in the synthesis of various fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and aroma compounds. It’s widely used in the production of vanillin, allantoin, and diphenolic acid, among others. The compound’s dual functional groups make it a valuable building block for both organic and polymer chemistry applications.

VI. Glyoxylic Acid Price and Market Overview

The glyoxylic acid price may vary depending on purity, concentration (typically 50%), and order quantity. Industrial-grade materials are usually more affordable, while cosmetic-grade solutions must meet stricter purity and stability standards.

As demand continues to grow in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and fine chemical sectors, many glyoxylic acid suppliers are expanding production capacities to ensure stable supply and competitive pricing.

VII. Why Choose Reliable Glyoxylic Acid Suppliers

When selecting a glyoxylic acid supplier, it is important to prioritize companies that offer consistent quality, reliable purity control, and stable packaging. A trustworthy supplier ensures that glyoxylic acid 50% solution meets safety standards required for cosmetic and industrial applications.

As a glyoxylic acid supplier, Unilong provides high-quality glyoxylic acid to help you achieve reliable product performance.Whether for hair smoothing formulations, skincare products, or chemical synthesis.

VIII. Conclusão

Glyoxylic Acid has become a game-changing ingredient in the cosmetics industry, providing safe and effective benefits for both hair and skin. As a formaldehyde-free alternative, it enables smooth, shiny, and healthy-looking hair while maintaining environmental and user safety.

With its growing applications and stable market availability, Glyoxylic Acid solution continues to be one of the most valuable raw materials for modern cosmetic innovation.