Malic Acid
A mid-sized AHA found naturally in apples and pears. Often paired with other AHAs to balance penetration depth.
Loosens corneodesmosomes while contributing antioxidant action from its hydroxyl groups. Penetration intermediate between glycolic and mandelic.
- Mid-strength exfoliation
- Antioxidant
- Brightens
- Smooths texture
What the evidence supports.
- Normal
- Combination
No notable contraindications reported.
Apply early in routine, toner/essence step.
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 1%–10%
Year-round.
Apples, pears, grapes, gives sour fruits their tang.
No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.
Common AHA blend partner. Rarely used alone.
The research behind Malic Acid.
Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.
Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2019
Maturitas, 2017
Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2014
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