Despite its misleading name, the word “malic acid” is derived from the Latin word malum, meaning apple. This substance was first extracted from apple juice in 1785 and is what gives certain foods and beverages their tart flavor. In addition, it is found in many skin and hair care products, including:
- Shampoos
- Body lotions
- Nail care
- Acne and anti-aging products
Malic acid belongs to the family of fruit acids (alpha-hydroxy acids). Alpha-hydroxy acids promote exfoliation by influencing how skin cells adhere to one another. As a result, the worn layer of skin is shed, making way for a newer layer. Some of the benefits of skin care products containing malic acid include:
- Hydrating the skin
- Removing dead skin cells
- Improving skin tone and smoothness
- Reducing wrinkles
The body naturally produces this substance by converting carbohydrates into energy. Moving without malic acid would be very difficult; hence, it is not surprising to say that this acid has other health benefits as well. Continue reading to find out why you should look for the name malic acid on the labels of personal care products you buy.
Malic acid, also known as apple acid, was first derived from apple juice in 1785. Besides apples, this acid can be found in many fruits such as strawberries, cherries, apricots, blueberries, and more. Malic acid is an organic moisturizer that can help individuals’ skin retain moisture. Therefore, it’s no surprise if you encounter this ingredient when looking at the components of a regular moisturizer at home.
Malic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid, belongs to the family of fruit acids and can act as a hydrating agent to help maintain skin moisture. If malic acid loses water, it converts to fumaric acid. Malic acid’s ability to exfoliate stimulates how skin cells adhere to one another. As a result, the worn layer is removed, and a fresh layer is replaced. Malic acid can also smooth the skin and reduce its wrinkles.
It is also used in many cosmetic products that require pH regulation of the skin. In fact, this substance is a practical and popular ingredient in the cosmetics industry, known for enhancing the absorption of hyaluronic acid in the skin.
Moisturizing the skin, exfoliating and removing dead skin cells, brightening the complexion, softening the skin, and reducing wrinkles are among the benefits of malic acid for the skin.
Malic acid is utilized in skin care products for its ability to brighten the skin and soften its texture. This is why it is a common ingredient in anti-aging creams.
At higher concentrations, malic acid can penetrate deeper layers of the skin to stimulate new collagen production. Collagen is a protein that helps build and repair cells, enhancing the strength and elasticity of the skin and other body tissues while preventing sagging. Collagen production decreases with age, which is why skin becomes darker and loses its firmness.
Using products containing this substance may boost collagen production and reduce signs of aging.
One of the reasons for premature aging, eczema, acne, and some skin issues is high stress. By using this acid in various creams, you can help rejuvenate the skin. It should be noted that topical application of this acid may be better than its oral consumption.
Other benefits of malic acid for the skin include hydrating and retaining skin moisture. For such functions, this acid is combined with glucose and a chemical found in aloe vera. The pH level (the acidity and alkalinity) of the skin is maintained with the help of malic acid. In this context, malic acid is more effective compared to citric acid and lactic acid. As the buffering capacity of malic acid increases, a larger amount of this acid can be used on the skin. It is important to ensure that if the pH level is disrupted, the skin will lose its protective barrier and become drier.