Differentiation between glycolic acid and glycerol
The properties of glycolic acid and glycerol are often confused, so it is necessary to distinguish them in detail.

Glycolic acid has a carboxyl group and a hydroxyl group, which has a unique structure and endows it with specific properties. Its chemical activity is quite active. The existence of carboxyl groups makes it acidic, which can neutralize with alkali substances to form corresponding salts. And the hydroxyl group can participate in the reaction of esterification, combine with acids, and belong to the genus of esters. In the field of application, it is often found in beauty and skin care products. Because of its exfoliation ability, it can make the old exfoliation on the surface of the skin fall off, making the skin renewed and smooth and delicate.

As for glycerol, the scientific name is glycerol, which contains three hydroxyl groups. This structure makes it highly hydrophilic and can absorb moisture and moisturize. It is used in many fields. In medicine, it is often used as a solvent and moisturizer. In the food industry, it is also used as a moisturizing and thickening agent to maintain the quality and taste of food.

Compared with the two, the structure is unique and the properties are also different. The acidity of glycolic acid is not found in glycerol; the strong moisture absorption and moisturizing properties of glycerol are also inferior to glycolic acid. In terms of application, although they all involve skin care, they focus on different. Glycolic acid mainly improves the keratin, while glycerin has tremendous support for moisture and water lock.

From this perspective, glycolic acid and glycerol are not the same thing. They each have their own characteristics and are suitable for their own uses, so they cannot be discerned without careful observation.