Glycolic Acid Market

Market Definition

The market includes the production, distribution, and utilization of glycolic acid across multiple industries. It involves manufacturers, suppliers, and end-users in sectors such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and chemical processing. 

The market covers various grades and formulations of glycolic acid used for skincare, peeling agents, cleaning products, and industrial applications, representing a wide range of commercial activities. The report provides a comprehensive analysis of key drivers, emerging trends, and the competitive landscape expected to influence the market over the forecast period.

Glycolic Acid Market Overview

The global glycolic acid market size was valued at USD 476.3 million in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 504.3 million in 2025 to USD 786.8 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.56% during the forecast period. 

The market is witnessing strong expansion, driven by increasing investments in research and development by key industry players and private sector companies. These efforts are focused on creating advanced glycolic acid formulations that offer improved stability, enhanced efficacy, and reduced skin irritation. Manufacturers are also working to develop application-specific solutions for products such as serums, peels, and creams, targeting both premium and mass-market segments.

Major companies operating in the glycolic acid industry are PureTech Scientific, Taida Sinopec CO., Ltd, CABB Group GmbH, Zhonglan Industry Co., Ltd., Water Chemical Co., Ltd., Avid Organics, KANTO KAGAKU, Junsei Chemical Co., Ltd., Fengchen Group Co., Ltd, CrossChem Limited, Phibro Animal Health Corporation, Merck KGaA, DuPont, Alpha Chemika, and ChemScene.

The growing use of glycolic acid in personal care and cosmetic products is a key factor driving market growth, supported by its well-established exfoliation and anti-aging properties. Rising consumer awareness of skin health, along with the increasing popularity of chemical peels and dermatological treatments, is further contributing to its widespread adoption. 

This shift is encouraging both established brands and new entrants to incorporate glycolic acid into their product lines, strengthening its presence in the global skincare market.

• In March 2025, the Estée Lauder Companies Inc. presented new research findings at the American Academy of Dermatology annual meeting, highlighting mechanisms of skin glycation and innovations in post-glycolic acid peel care. The studies demonstrated the impact of advanced glycation end-products on melanogenesis and showcased a facial night cream accelerating skin recovery after cosmetic dermatologic treatments.

Key Highlights

1. The glycolic acid industry size was valued at USD 476.3 million in 2024.
2. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.56% from 2025 to 2032.
3. Asia Pacific held a market share of 38.90% in 2024, with a valuation of USD 185.3 million.
4. The cosmetic grade segment garnered USD 218.0 million in revenue in 2024.
5. The personal care & cosmetics segment is expected to reach USD 316.9 million by 2032.
6. The market in Europe is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.61% during the forecast period.

Market Driver

Growing Consumer Adoption and Awareness Boost Market Expansion

The glycolic acid market is experiencing strong growth as consumers increasingly recognize its benefits for skin exfoliation, hydration, and overall skin health. Growing awareness, supported by marketing efforts and recommendations from skincare professionals, is driving higher adoption of glycolic acid-based products in daily personal care routines. 

This shift in consumer preference is prompting manufacturers to expand their product portfolios with formulations tailored to different skin types and concerns. Companies are also investing in advanced delivery systems and safer concentrations to enhance product performance and user experience. As a result, the market is expanding across various regions and age groups, supported by both innovation and rising demand for effective skincare solutions.

• In September 2024, Walgreens introduced a new premium skin care line, including a glycolic acid purifying cleanser designed to exfoliate, hydrate, and smooth skin texture. Through this launch the company aims to expand its presence in the dermocosmetics segment with high-quality and affordable glycolic acid-based skin care solutions.

Market Challenge

Regulatory Compliance and Safety Concerns

A major challenge in the glycolic acid market is navigating stringent regulatory requirements and ensuring product safety. Glycolic acid requires precise formulation and concentration control to prevent skin irritation, sensitization, or other adverse effects. Regulatory authorities across regions enforce strict limits on permissible glycolic acid levels in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, creating complexities in product development, approval, and market entry. 

To address this challenge, companies are investing in rigorous clinical testing and dermatological evaluations to validate safety and efficacy. Additionally, manufacturers are adopting advanced delivery systems and formulating products with optimized concentrations to minimize irritation while maximizing benefits.

Market Trend

Integration of Glycolic Acid with Advanced Skin Therapies

A key trend in the glycolic acid market is the integration of glycolic acid into advanced dermatological and cosmeceutical formulations. This approach allows manufacturers to address multiple skin concerns, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and signs of aging, using a single active ingredient. 

The trend is supported by ongoing research into the synergistic effects of glycolic acid when combined with other compounds, leading to more effective and targeted skincare solutions. As a result, the demand for scientifically developed, multifunctional products is contributing to the steady adoption of glycolic acid across cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors.

• In April 2025, DermaFocus launched an innovative exosome-based supplement, Purasomes XCell, alongside a new Exosomal Liquid Laser protocol for skin regeneration. The treatment protocol integrates glycolic acid 8% night serum with advanced peels and microneedling to promote skin repair, reduce hyperpigmentation, and enhance collagen production.

Glycolic Acid Market Report Snapshot

Segmentation	Details
By Grade	Cosmetic Grade, Pharmaceutical Grade, Technical Grade, Others
By Application	Personal Care & Cosmetics, Pharmaceuticals, Textile Industry, Household Cleaning, Others
By Region	North America: U.S., Canada, Mexico
	Europe: France, UK, Spain, Germany, Italy, Russia, Rest of Europe
	Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, India, Australia, ASEAN, South Korea, Rest of Asia-Pacific
	Middle East & Africa: Turkey, U.A.E., Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa
	South America: Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America

Market Segmentation

• By Grade (Cosmetic Grade, Pharmaceutical Grade, Technical Grade, and Others): The cosmetic grade segment earned USD 218.0 million in 2024 due to rising demand for skincare and anti-aging products.
• By Application (Personal Care & Cosmetics, Pharmaceuticals, Textile Industry, Household Cleaning, and Others): The personal care & cosmetics segment held 37.67% of the market in 2024, due to increasing consumer preference for chemical peels and exfoliating treatments.

Glycolic Acid Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the market has been classified into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and South America.

Asia Pacific glycolic acid market share stood at around 38.90% in 2024, with a valuation of USD 185.3 million. This is attributed to the expansion of the personal care and cosmetics industries in countries such as China, India, and South Korea. Rising disposable incomes and greater attention to personal grooming are increasing the demand for glycolic acid-based products that target aging, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone. 

Moreover, the increasing adoption of advanced skincare routines along with heightened consumer awareness of dermatological health is further supporting market growth. Additionally, the presence of regional manufacturers that are investing in organic and natural formulations is driving market growth across Asia Pacific.

• In November 2024, Avantium N.V. and SCGC entered a multi-year collaboration to pilot PLGA production using CO₂-derived glycolic acid via Avantium’s Volta Technology. The partnership supports sustainable polymer development and includes an option for SCGC to license the technology in Southeast Asia.

The glycolic acid industry in Europe is expected to register the fastest growth in the market, with a projected CAGR of 6.61% over the forecast period. Growth is fueled by high demand for premium skincare and pharmaceutical products incorporating glycolic acid. European consumers are increasingly seeking advanced dermatological treatments, which boost the adoption of glycolic acid-based chemical peels and anti-aging formulations. 

Countries such as Germany, France, and the UK have well-established beauty and healthcare sectors that support product innovation and market penetration. Furthermore, the rising preference for high-purity and specialty-grade glycolic acid enhances opportunities in pharmaceuticals and personal care segments, driving steady expansion in the European market.

Regulatory Frameworks

• In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees the use of glycolic acid primarily as an ingredient in over-the-counter (OTC) topical formulations. The FDA ensures that such products are safe for consumer use, appropriately labeled, and supported by substantiated claims. However, glycolic acid is not approved by the FDA as an active pharmaceutical ingredient for drug products.
• In Europe, glycolic acid is regulated by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) under the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation. REACH ensures that the manufacture, import, and use of chemical substances, including glycolic acid, are carried out responsibly to protect both human health and the environment.

Competitive Landscape

The glycolic acid industry is characterized by key players focusing on innovation, product differentiation, and strategic partnerships. Leading companies are investing heavily in research and development to create high-purity and specialty-grade glycolic acid variants that cater to diverse industry needs. 

Expansion of manufacturing capacities and optimization of supply chains are common strategies to improve cost efficiency and meet growing demand. Collaborations and alliances with cosmetic and pharmaceutical firms enable market participants to strengthen their distribution networks and enhance product portfolios. 

Additionally, several players emphasize sustainability by adopting eco-friendly production processes to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Continuous product launches and regional market penetration remain pivotal for maintaining competitive advantage.

• In August 2023, PureTech Scientific LLC acquired the glycolic acid business from The Chemours Company for USD 137 million. This acquisition allowed PureTech to strengthen its market presence and enhance its production capabilities, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainability across several high-growth industries.

List of Key Companies in Glycolic Acid Market:

• PureTech Scientific
• Taida Sinopec CO., Ltd
• CABB Group GmbH
• Zhonglan Industry Co., Ltd.
• Water Chemical Co., Ltd.
• Avid Organics
• KANTO KAGAKU
• Junsei Chemical Co., Ltd.
• Fengchen Group Co., Ltd
• CrossChem Limited
• Phibro Animal Health Corporation
• Merck KGaA
• DuPont
• Alpha Chemika
• ChemScene

Recent Developments (Agreement)

• In March 2025, Brenntag Specialties signed a strategic distribution agreement with PureTech Scientific for glycolic acid solutions across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The partnership aims to expand access to PureTech’s Glypure cosmetic-grade glycolic acid in the North American personal care sector.