Butyl thioglycolate is widely used in the cosmetics and personal care industry as a key ingredient in hair waving and straightening products. Its ability to break and reform disulfide bonds in keratin makes it effective for permanent hair restructuring. Additionally, it serves as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of various organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. In industrial applications, it is utilized as a stabilizer or additive in polymer production to enhance material properties. Its versatility also extends to research laboratories, where it is employed in organic synthesis and as a reagent in chemical reactions.