Dihydroxyacetic Acid
A cosmetic ingredient used as antistatic, buffering, hair waving or straightening in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Acetic acid, 2,2-dihydroxy-,Glyoxylic Acid Hydrate,Hydroxyglycolic Acid
What does it do?
Dihydroxyacetic Acid is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Antistatic
reduces static electricity, mostly in hair products to keep strands smooth and manageable
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Buffering
stabilises the pH of a product
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Hair waving or straightening
permanently changes the shape of hair through chemical reduction and re-oxidation of the hair's disulfide bonds
EU regulatory status
Dihydroxyacetic Acid is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Dihydroxyacetic Acid?
Dihydroxyacetic Acid is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Acetic acid, 2,2-dihydroxy-,Glyoxylic Acid Hydrate,Hydroxyglycolic Acid
Is Dihydroxyacetic Acid allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Dihydroxyacetic Acid is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Dihydroxyacetic Acid do in cosmetic products?
Dihydroxyacetic Acid is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: antistatic, buffering, hair waving or straightening.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2019