Differentiation between glycolic acid and α-hydroxy acid
Fuglycolic acid is actually a member of the α-hydroxy acid family. However, although the two are related to genus and species, there are also many differences between them.

Glycolic acid has a simple structure, and its molecule contains one carboxyl group and one α-hydroxyl group. This specific structure gives it unique chemical and physical properties. In terms of chemical activity, the carboxyl group is acidic and can participate in acid-base reactions; the hydroxyl group enables the molecule to undergo esterification and other reactions. Because of its relatively small molecule, it has advantages in penetrating the skin and is often emphasized in the field of beauty and skin care. It can penetrate deep into the surface of the skin, promote keratin metabolism, and make the skin glow.

In contrast, α-hydroxy acids are a general term for a class of compounds, and glycolic acid is a typical representative. There are many members of the α-hydroxy acid family, and the properties and applications of each member are also different due to subtle differences in structure. Compared with glycolic acid, some α-hydroxy acids have larger molecules, and although they can also act on the stratum corneum, their penetration rate and depth may be different from glycolic acid. And different α-hydroxy acids have their own advantages and disadvantages in different application scenarios.

In industrial applications, glycolic acid can be used for the synthesis of some special chemicals due to its active chemical properties. As a whole, α-hydroxy acids have a wider range of applications due to their diverse members, from fine chemicals to biomedicine.

To sum up, glycolic acid and α-hydroxy acids are both related and different. To distinguish the differences between the two, it is crucial to apply them rationally in various fields.