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:

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: Cosing database,cotellessa et al. pyruvic acid peels review

Primary Sources: 2026-03-12