Lipophilic vs Hydrophilic Antibacterial Effectiveness: Comparing Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, and Antimicrobial Pimple Patches
Microbiology- Grade:
- 12
- Teacher:
- Viktoriya Yurkiv
Glycolic acid and Salicylic acid are commonly used ingredients found in skincare products, they are known to have antimicrobial effects (Xu et al., 2020; Song et al., 2022). While pimple patches are marketed to protect the skin and not exactly kill bacteria (American Chemical Society, 2025). This study investigated the antibacterial effects of glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and pimple patches against E.coli, using diffusion assay in water-rich agar (normal agar) and oil-rich agar. The zones of inhibition were measured to determine how effective the treatment was at inhibiting bacterial growth. Glycolic acid was the most consistent at inhibiting bacterial growth, salicylic acid was weak and inconsistent, and pimple patches did not reduce any bacteria in any environment. These results show that glycolic acid can inhibit E. coli, pimple patches and salicylic acid have limited or no antimicrobial effects. Further research could explore different bacteria strains, concentrations, and how solubility and diffusion can change the results of antimicrobial effectiveness.
This is so thorough and meticulous (in a good way)! You definitely have an eye for detail and you presented all of your findings so eloquently. I am so impressed and so proud of you!
So proud of you – your courage, drive, and commitment. The experience of doing this is invaluable to your growth.
Great job with your research on this project. Your topic was well prepared and completed.
Fantastic!