Malic Acid

(in 3,194 products)

1. Acidity Regulator / Buffering Agent - Changes or maintains the acidity or basicity of food/cosmetics.

2. Exfoliant - Removes dead cells at the surface of the skin

3. Preservative - Prevents and inhibits the growth of unwanted microorganisms which may be harmful

4. Skin Whitening Agent - Reduces the melanin content of the skin

Malic Acid is a natural alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is commonly found in many types of fruits, such as apples and grapes. It is commonly used in skincare products for its ability to exfoliate the skin and improve its texture and appearance.

Malic Acid works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, which helps to remove them from the surface of the skin. This process helps to unclog pores, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Malic Acid can also help to stimulate collagen production in the skin, which can help to improve the skin's elasticity and firmness.

Recent studies have suggested that Malic Acid may also have brightening and hydrating benefits for the skin. It works by inhibiting the production of melanin, which is the pigment that gives our skin its color, and can also help to improve the skin's natural moisture barrier.

Overall, Malic Acid is a safe and effective ingredient that can provide many benefits for the skin. However, it's important to use products containing Malic Acid as directed and to start with a lower concentration if you have never used it before, and to wear sunscreen to protect the skin from damage.

It is approved to use as food additive in EU and generally recognized as safe food substance in US.

1. PubChem: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/525

1. CANADA INGREDIENT HOTLIST, List of Ingredients that are Restricted for Use in Cosmetic Products [2019]

- Alpha-hydroxy acids

2. US FDA Food Additives Status List [2018]

- Malic acid, L-malic acid

3. EU Approved Food Additive [2018]

- E296

4. Japan’s List of Designated Food Additives under Article 10 of the Food Sanitation Act

- DL-Malic Acid (dl-Malic Acid)

5. US FDA Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) Food Substances (21 CFR 184) [2017]

- § 184.1069 - Malic acid