Glycolic Acid Market

Significant Demand for Alpha-hydroxy-acid in Cosmetic Industry to Aid Market Growth.

As per L’Oréal’s statistics, the cosmetics market witnessed a gain of around 5.5% in 2019. Skincare accounted for around 40% of the glycolic acid market share in 2019. With the introduction of the e-commerce business, online companies, expansion of social networks, rise in per capita disposable income, and consumer interest in new, premium, and different products have emerged as prime factors for the overall cosmetics market growth. The rising demand for online shopping for cosmetic products has allowed most manufacturers or producers to establish a wide sales network, which in turn may accelerate the market growth of hydroacoustic acid.

Additionally, Continuous developments in the cosmetic industry will lead to an upsurge in the market. Glycolic acid is majorly used in the manufacturing of various skincare products such as creams, face masks, and peels, which will drive the demand. Growing consumer awareness, along with a rise in per capita disposable income with an improved standard of living mainly in India, Malaysia, and China, is the key contributing factor to the increasing product demand. Cosmetic products include face and anti-aging creams, lipsticks, shampoo, hair care treatment sprays, moisturizers, cleansers, scrubs, fragrances, body wash, and others.

About 95% of these products contain hydroxyacetic acid as a raw material as it provides benefits to the skin such as removal of dark spots, irregular pigmentation, enlarged pores, and dead skin, and improving overall skin health.

The Global Glycolic Acid Market Industry is poised for substantial growth, with projections indicating a market value of 0.63 USD Billion in 2024 and an anticipated increase to 3.11 USD Billion by 2035. This growth trajectory suggests a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.64% from 2025 to 2035, reflecting the increasing adoption of glycolic acid in various sectors, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. The market's expansion is likely to be driven by rising consumer awareness, technological advancements, and the growing demand for effective skincare solutions.

The Global Glycolic Acid Market Industry experiences a notable surge in demand for skincare products, driven by increasing consumer awareness regarding skin health and appearance. Glycolic acid, known for its exfoliating properties, is widely utilized in various formulations, including cleansers, serums, and peels. This trend is particularly pronounced among millennials and Gen Z consumers, who prioritize skincare routines. As of 2024, the market is valued at approximately 0.63 USD Billion, with projections indicating a growth trajectory that could reach 3.11 USD Billion by 2035. This growth reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.64% from 2025 to 2035, underscoring the expanding role of glycolic acid in the beauty industry.

Emerging markets present a significant opportunity for the Global Glycolic Acid Market Industry, as rising disposable incomes and changing consumer preferences drive demand for skincare products. In regions such as Asia-Pacific and Latin America, consumers are increasingly investing in personal care and beauty products, including those containing glycolic acid. This trend is fueled by a growing middle class and heightened awareness of skincare benefits. As these markets continue to develop, the demand for glycolic acid is expected to rise, contributing to the overall market growth and diversification of product offerings.

The Global Glycolic Acid Market Industry is significantly impacted by the growing interest in anti-aging solutions among consumers. Glycolic acid is recognized for its ability to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, making it a sought-after ingredient in anti-aging products. With an aging global population, particularly in developed regions, the demand for effective anti-aging treatments continues to rise. This trend is expected to contribute to the market's expansion, as consumers increasingly seek products that deliver visible results. The emphasis on maintaining youthful skin is likely to drive innovation and investment in glycolic acid formulations.

Technological advancements in the formulation of glycolic acid products significantly influence the Global Glycolic Acid Market Industry. Innovations in delivery systems and product stability enhance the efficacy and safety of glycolic acid in various applications. For instance, the development of encapsulation techniques allows for controlled release, minimizing irritation while maximizing benefits. Such advancements not only improve consumer satisfaction but also expand the potential applications of glycolic acid beyond traditional skincare, including hair care and body treatments. As the industry evolves, these technological improvements are likely to attract a broader consumer base, further propelling market growth.

Regulatory support for cosmetic ingredients, including glycolic acid, plays a crucial role in shaping the Global Glycolic Acid Market Industry. Governments and regulatory bodies are increasingly recognizing the safety and efficacy of glycolic acid, leading to favorable regulations that facilitate its use in cosmetic formulations. This support not only encourages manufacturers to innovate but also instills consumer confidence in the products they purchase. As regulations evolve to accommodate new scientific findings, the market is likely to benefit from increased acceptance and utilization of glycolic acid in a variety of applications, further driving growth.

By region, the study provides market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. Asia Pacific accounted for the highest market share in terms of revenue and volume in 2019 and is expected to remain the largest throughout the forecast period due to expanding cosmetics and textile industries in China and India. China is a major consumer due to the huge presence of the cosmetic industry to meet the increasing consumer demand. Changing lifestyles and an increasing population with an inclination towards beauty and wellness products will drive the market in the region.

This increasing demand for hydroxyacetic acid from the ever-growing

is responsible for the growth of this market.

Europe is projected to witness significant growth in the market due to high demand from the textile industry. The fashion industry, which is dominant in the region, requires high-quality fabrics to convert them into different outfits. To achieve this, companies are undertaking innovative product development by incorporating advanced technologies, which is expected to foster market growth in the region. North America is expected to witness significant growth in the market. The pharmaceutical industry in the U.S. is one of the major consumers of hydroxyacetic acid, which is used to make bio-absorbable suture material without any harm.

Technological advancement in the medical field is helping in the production of better quality medical instruments, such as absorbable staples, screws, meshes, and stents, that will support market growth.

In June 2023, The Chemours Company, a global chemicals company known for its performance materials expertise, titanium technologies and thermal & specialized solutions was able to sell off its glycolic acid business. PureTech Scientific Inc. will buy the business on cash consideration basis at $137m. With this acquisition, PureTech Scientific aims at being one of the world’s major producers of ultra-high purity alpha hydroxy acids which are organic and supply specialty chemicals as well as life science sectors.

Closing terms and conditions, which include regulatory approvals will be met hence it is projected that by the end of Q3 2023 the transaction will have taken place.

The Chemours Company introduced Glyclean D in November 2021 as an effective sanitizer and cleanser capable of killing SARS-CoV-2 virus alongside other viruses and bacteria. This product has been successfully registered by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In terms of formulation, Glyclean D contains a 70.0% GA content—an EPA approved antimicrobial ingredient specifically designed for use in liquid form, non-porous hard surface disinfectants only.

It is amazing as it is derived from natural sources, unlike other effective disinfectants such as quats or bleach, which are harsh and corrosive; therefore, it is highly biodegradable, making it extremely eco-friendly and hence safe for human beings’ lives.

In July 2022, Kinship released its latest product, a 10% glycolic acid serum that works overnight for smooth skin, illuminating the personal care segment.

Pacira agreed to acquire Flexicon in October 2021 and will add its approved OA knee pain treatment to Pacira’s portfolio. By using a poly lactic-co-glycolic acid matrix together with triamcinolone acetonide, the therapy employs microsphere technology.

A government subsidy worth US$10.12M was received by METabolic EXplorer (METEX) from France in February 2021 to support investment into an industrial plant to produce glycolic acid in France. This would be the world’s first industrial plant to produce bio-based glycolic acid, which is estimated to use fermentation technology.