Ingredient Guide
Malic Acid
Also known as: Malic Acid, L-Malic Acid
All skin types
What It Is
A naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid found in apples and many other fruits. Part of the AHA family, used in skincare as an exfoliant and pH adjuster.
What It Does
Provides gentle chemical exfoliation at cosmetic concentrations, helps even skin tone, and adjusts formula pH. A milder AHA than glycolic or lactic acid due to its larger molecular size.
Best For
Gentle exfoliationTone supportMulti-AHA formulas
Benefits
- Gentle AHA exfoliation
- Natural fruit-derived
- Contributes to multi-acid formula synergy
When to Be Careful
- Milder standalone effect compared to glycolic or lactic — mostly used as supporting AHA in blends
Commonly Found In
Multi-acid exfoliantsEmulsionspH-adjusting skincare
FAQs About Malic Acid
What does malic acid do in skincare?
Provides gentle AHA exfoliation and pH buffering. In multi-acid formulas it works synergistically with other AHAs. In emulsions, it serves primarily as a pH adjuster.