The difference between glycerol and glycolic acid

Glycerol, also known as glycerol, is a ternary alcohol compound. Its molecular structure has three hydroxyl groups, and it is a colorless, odorless, and sweet-tasting viscous liquid. Glycerin has strong hygroscopicity and is used in many fields. In the food industry, it is often used as a moisturizer and sweetener to maintain food moisture, increase its taste and shelf life; in the cosmetic field, it can keep the skin moist and prevent dry skin.

Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid, and the molecule contains carboxyl and hydroxyl groups. Its appearance is colorless and deliquescent crystals, or it is a colorless viscous liquid. Its acidity makes it popular in the chemical and beauty industries. In the chemical industry, it is often used in the preparation of esters and other compounds; in the cosmetic industry, it is often used as a chemical exfoliant, which can exfoliate the skin and improve the appearance and texture of the skin.

The chemical structure of the two is significantly different. Glycerin contains only alcohol hydroxyl groups, while glycolic acid has both carboxyl and hydroxyl groups. This structure makes its chemical properties and reactivity very different. Glycerin is relatively mild, and the reaction involves many hydroxyl groups; glycolic acid is more acidic and has diverse reactions due to the presence of carboxyl groups.

Physical properties also vary. Glycerin is a viscous liquid at room temperature, with a high boiling point and can be miscible with water in any ratio; glycolic acid has a low melting point and can be a crystal or liquid at room temperature. It has high solubility in water, but its

In terms of uses, although both involve the field of cosmetics, the mechanism and effect of action are different. Glycerin focuses on moisturizing, while glycolic acid focuses on keratin metabolism and improvement. In other industries, applications also vary due to differences in properties.

In summary, although glycerin and glycolic acid are both organic compounds, their structures, properties and uses are obviously different and cannot be confused.