Acetic Acid

Acetic Acid Description

Acetic acid, also known as ethanoic acid, is a type of acid that is a byproduct of fermentation, i.e., the breakdown of a substance by bacteria, yeast, or other microorganisms. It is the main component of vinegar aside from water. In its raw form it is a clear, colorless liquid with a distinctive vinegar smell.

Acetic acid has multiple uses in commercial products, including as a food additive to increase product stability. It is also used in some skin care products to adjust and maintain their pH. Acetic acid has antimicrobial properties – but not of the same potency or effectiveness as FDA-approved antimicrobial agents such as benzoyl peroxide.

While some people do use different types of vinegar – of which acetic acid is a major component, as mentioned above – as skin care home remedies, researchers have found that it is also commonly misused, which can result in skin damage. For certain, vinegar and its components do not outperform long-proven over the counter and prescription-only acne treatments.