Widely used in skincare, glycolic acid solution helps exfoliate the skin by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and revealing smoother, brighter skin. It is commonly found in facial cleansers, toners, serums, and chemical peels for treating acne, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines. Due to its small molecular size, it penetrates the skin effectively, making it a popular choice in anti-aging and complexion-brightening products.

In addition to cosmetics, it is used in industrial settings for cleaning metal surfaces, removing rust, and as a component in detergents. It also finds use in the textile industry for dyeing and finishing processes. In some cases, it is employed in biodegradable chelating agents for water treatment and agriculture.