Malic Acid (Ingredient Explained + Products)

AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) are water-soluble acids that gently dissolve dead skin cells on the surface, revealing brighter, smoother skin. Great for dry or sun-damaged skin, but always use SPF when using AHAs.

Oily Skin is determined by your genetics, but can also be influenced by factors such as stress levels, changing hormonal levels, and humidity.

These ingredients are commonly used to help calm visible redness and soothe irritated skin. While they can be effective for many people, results can vary depending on the cause of redness and individual skin sensitivity. If redness persists or worsens, it's best to check with a dermatologist.

The most common cause of textured skin is a build up of dead skin cells. The easiest way to get rid of textured skin is to exfoliate and give your skin the proper nutrients.

Pores are tiny openings in the skin that release sweat and oil. Everyone has them, and it's completely normal for them to be visible. While factors like excess oil, acne, sun damage, and even genetics can make pores appear larger, these ingredients may help minimize their appearance. Just keep in mind: you can't erase pores entirely, and that's okay!

Helps with Anti-Aging

Aging skin results from decreased collagen production, sun damage, and slower cell turnover. Proven anti-aging ingredients include retinoids (most effective), vitamin C, peptides, and AHAs. Consistent SPF use prevents further damage.

Helps with Dark Spots

These ingredients are known for their brightening properties, helping to even out skin tone and reduce the look of dark spots or dullness.

Good for Scar Healing

These ingredients are commonly used to support the skin's natural healing process and improve the appearance of scars over time. While results can vary, they may help with texture, discoloration, and overall skin recovery.

These ingredients are known to be potential triggers for rosacea. However, triggers vary greatly between individuals. Keep a diary to identify your personal triggers and work with a dermatologist to develop a gentle, effective routine.

Malic Acid is an acid with both AHA and BHA properties, but is considered an AHA because its AHA properties are stronger.

It can be naturally found in unripe fruit and especially apples (its name from the latin word "malum", meaning apple!).

How it works

Like other AHAs, malic acid gently removes the top layer of dead skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin underneath.

Though it’s considered milder and less potent than glycolic or lactic acid, it can help improve:

Skin texture
Uneven tone
Fine lines and wrinkles
Acne blemishes

Due to its larger molecular structure, it penetrates the skin more slowly and is often used in combination with other AHAs to enhance their overall effectiveness.

Malic acid often plays a role in balancing a product’s pH and is usually included in small amounts (around 1-2%) as a supporting exfoliant.

As with all exfoliating acids, you should wear sunscreen daily when using malic acid to protect your newly resurfaced skin.

Fun fact: Malic acid is the compound responsible for the tart flavor of apples and other sour fruits.

While research on malic acid is limited compared to glycolic or lactic acid, it’s still a safe and mild exfoliant.

Read more about some other popular AHA's here: