Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan

Malic Acid

2-Hydroxybutanedioic acid / Apple acid

Safety Notes

Dicarboxylic AHA; milder than glycolic/lactic; often combined with other AHAs; apple-derived versions available; counts toward total AHA load

Function & Common Use

Function

Active (AHA exfoliant) / pH adjuster

Category

Active Ingredient

Common In

Exfoliants toners multi-AHA products

Origin

Synthetic / Fruit-derived

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No formal limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No specific limit

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Malic Acid safe to use in skincare?

Malic Acid has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Dicarboxylic AHA; milder than glycolic/lactic; often combined with other AHAs; apple-derived versions available; counts toward total AHA load

Is Malic Acid allowed in India?

Malic Acid is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No formal limit.

What is Malic Acid used for in cosmetics?

Malic Acid functions as: Active (AHA exfoliant) / pH adjuster. It is commonly found in: Exfoliants toners multi-AHA products.

TCS Assessment
Low Concern
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted

Identifiers

CAS6915-15-7
EC230-022-8

Want to check if your product contains Malic Acid?

Analyse a Product
WhatsApp Community

Join The Clean Sheet™ community

Science-backed beauty tips, ingredient alerts, and early access. Straight to your WhatsApp.

Join for free →