Mixed
Malic Acid
AHA
AHAs (or Alpha Hydroxy Acids) remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.
Good for Oily Skin
Oily Skin is determined by your genetics, but can also be influenced by factors such as stress levels, changing hormonal levels, and humidity.
Reduces Redness
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.
Brightening
Brightening
Good for Texture
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.
Reduces Large Pores
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
As we age, factors like reduced oil production, collagen breakdown, UV exposure, and lifestyle choices all affect how our skin looks and feels. While we can’t stop the aging process, ingredients like retinoids, antioxidants, and certain peptides have been shown to help slow visible signs of aging.
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.
Can worsen Rosacea
These ingredients are known to be potential triggers for rosacea, but not everyone with rosacea will react the same way. Because rosacea-prone skin can be especially reactive, it’s best to approach new products with caution. Please consult a dermatologist for personalized guidance.
Explained
Malic Acid is an acid with both AHA and BHA properties, but is considered an AHA because its AHA properties are stronger.
Like other AHAs, it removes the top layer of old and dead skin to reveal the newer layer underneath. It also helps with improving fine lines, wrinkles, skin tone, skin texture, and acne blemishes.
Due to its exfoliating properties, you should wear SPF when using Malic Acid.
Fun fact: The word "Malic" comes from the word "Malum". In Latin, "Malum" means apple. This ingredient is often derived from unripe fruit.
Read more about some other popular AHA's here:
See all 730 products with Malic Acid
Users who like it
61%
Users who avoid it
39%
What it does
Buffering
Buffering ingredients help stabilise or adjust the ph level of a product.
Prevalence
Less common
Percentage of products that contain it
0.9%
Top categories
Cleansers
Treatments
Moisturizers
Position
Predominant list placement
Bottom 50%
Concentration
Concentrations we've seen
2% to
3%
References
Products with Malic Acid
CosIng Data
CosIng ID
35136
INCI Name
MALIC ACID
EC #
202-601-5
All Functions
Buffering