Introduction:

Glycolic acid is applied for the aesthetic and dermatological treatment in anti-aging formulations, chemical exfoliators (peeling). Considering the great use of glycolic acid in cosmetic products and their applicability, it is become important to carry out the quality control of cosmetic products containing glycolic acid, in order to guarantee its quality as well safety to users.

Aim:

To evaluate the quality of glycolic acid in cosmetic over the counter available in the national market.

Materials and methods:

8 samples of cosmetic products containing glycolic acid were evaluated. The following tests were performed: label analysis, organoleptic characteristics of the products, pH determination, centrifuge test and glycolic acid assay (volumetric analysis). Regarding the glycolic acid content, the 8 samples were approved, as they remained within the maximum limit established by Anvisa of 10% glycolic acid.

Results:

Regarding the pH evaluation, 4 samples presented values below the allowed, being that the use of products with pH below 3.5 may cause irritation and damage skin. Already in the analysis of the labels from compounding formulation samples, there was no recommendations and precautions of use.

Conclusion:

This way, the importance of quality control in glycolic acid containing products is evident to provide safety and efficacy to users.