Common Name(s): L-malic acid,2-hydroxybutanedioic acid,apple acid

CAS Number: 6915-15-7

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Gently exfoliates skin, brightens complexion, balances ph, acts as chelating agent.

Why It's Used: Gentle exfoliant for multi-aha blends; larger molecular size provides moderate exfoliation with low irritation.

How It Works: At low ph, disrupts corneocyte adhesion for gentle exfoliation. dicarboxylic acid structure enables metal chelation as formulation stabilizer.

Typically Found In: Chemical exfoliants,toners,serums,professional peels

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Active ingredient – alpha hydroxy acid (aha)

Secondary Functions: Chelating agent,ph adjuster,mild exfoliant

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 1%–10%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes – synthetic or fermentation-derived

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Derived from apples and other fruits or synthetically produced via maleic acid hydration.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 2/5 – low to moderate

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Very well-tolerated; gentler than glycolic or lactic acid; low photosensitization.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes – preferred aha for sensitive skin

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Safe at otc concentrations. eu: ≤10% leave-on at ph ≥3.5. mandatory spf advisory.

Works Well With: Niacinamide,ceramides,hyaluronic acid,spf

Avoid Combining With: Retinol in same step; multiple exfoliants simultaneously

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Malic acid's molecular weight (~134 da vs 76 da for glycolic acid) provides shallower skin penetration and more superficial exfoliating action, ideal for sensitive skin.

Last Verified: 2026-03-12

Primary Sources: Cosing database,cir safety assessment,sccs aha opinion