Abstract: Glycolic acid is one organic hydroxyacid which can diminish cohesion of keratinocyte, accelerate desquamation and renewal of the stratum corneum, as well as increase the synthesis of collagen, elastic fiber and glycosaminoglycans. Glycolic acids also play a role in the prevention of photoaging, improvement of dry skin condition and repair of skin barrier function, which has been used widely in dermatology. The history of glycolic, species, mechanisms of action, clinical application and adverse reaction were reviewed in this paper.

Key words: glycolic acids, acne, melasma, photoaging