Common Name(s): 2-oxopropanoic acid,alpha-ketopropionic acid
CAS Number: 127-17-3
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides deep exfoliation, collagen stimulation, and reduces acne with effects comparable to higher glycolic acid concentrations.
Why It's Used: Professional peels for multi-action: exfoliation + collagen stimulation + antibacterial against p. acnes.
How It Works: Disrupts corneocyte cohesion for exfoliation. stimulates fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis as a krebs cycle intermediate. antibacterial against p. acnes.
Typically Found In: Professional chemical peels,advanced treatment serums
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient – alpha-keto acid
Secondary Functions: Collagen stimulation,antibacterial
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 5%–40% (professional only at higher concentrations)
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes – synthetic or fermentation-derived
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Synthetically produced or from natural fermentation.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 4/5 – high at professional concentrations
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Photosensitizing – mandatory spf use. start at low frequency.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Consumer concentrations: use with caution; professional: practitioner-administered only
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Requires careful ph management. professional concentrations require medical/aesthetician supervision.
Works Well With: Niacinamide,ceramides,hyaluronic acid,spf
Avoid Combining With: Retinol in same step; multiple exfoliants simultaneously
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Pyruvic acid's collagen stimulation mechanism via krebs cycle intermediate may support cellular energy metabolism enhancing regenerative capacity – distinct from purely mechanical aha exfoliation.
Last Verified: 2026-03-12
Primary Sources: Cosing database,cotellessa et al. pyruvic acid peels review