Malic Acid
pH Adjuster; Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
Irritation | Acidic formulations may cause stinging, redness, dryness, or barrier irritation, especially at higher concentrations or lower pH. Use Limitation | CIR concluded malic acid is safe as a pH adjuster but found available data insufficient to determine safety for other cosmetic functions, supporting caution when it is used as an active exfoliant.
Why Oh Daisey rates it this way
Irritation | Acidic formulations may cause stinging, redness, dryness, or barrier irritation, especially at higher concentrations or lower pH. Use Limitation | CIR concluded malic acid is safe as a pH adjuster but found available data insufficient to determine safety for other cosmetic functions, supporting caution when it is used as an active exfoliant.
What it does
A naturally occurring hydroxy acid used to adjust formula pH and, in some products, provide exfoliating effects.
How to read this rating
This rating reflects the Oh Daisey ingredient standard and the evidence currently available for cosmetic use. Product safety can also depend on concentration, exposure route, formulation, manufacturing quality, and individual sensitivity.
Sources
Found in Approved Products
This ingredient appears in 2 Oh Daisey Approved Products.
