The same chemical that makes unripe fruit too tart to eat is what some people use to keep their face looking soft, smooth and youthful. Malic acid is a naturally occurring substance that has been shown to have an added benefit in a variety of skin and personal care products.
Pub Chem, the Open Chemistry Database, reports malic acid has properties that make it a skin and eye irritant. That science translates,
according to WebMD , into an effective tool for treating certain dry and scaly skin conditions.
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Malic acid is also known as alpha hydroxyl acids. It primarily works because of that irritant factor which helps the body scuff off the top layer of skin cells.
The Skin Science Store explains the acidity in malic acid is often used to help adjust the Ph in products. ITt may already be in a product you use.
Here are five types of skin and personal care products made with malic acid:
1. Anti-aging products: Treatments to help aging skin use malic acid to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and other lines. The Skin Science Store explains the products work because they help shed the outer layer of skin cells.
2. Acne scaring treatment: That scuffing factor has shown benefits to new appearing scars. WebMD points to malic acid as a potential acne scar improver. In the form of a facial peel, malic acid appears to benefit the appearance of acne scars.
3. Facial moisturizers: Bartek — a producer of malic acid for cosmetics — credits the "balance of humectant and skin penetration properties" with the effectiveness of malic acid for exfoliation and moisturizing the skin. The product also increases firmness and can improve smoothness.
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4. Shampoos and conditioners: Malic acid is an ingredient in many "clarifying" shampoos.
According to SOMA hair products a clarifying shampoo is designed to remove styling products and other extra minerals on the hair and can also remove chlorine stains.
5. Oral Hygiene products: Malic acid can help reduce the risk of gum disease by helping a mouth produce more saliva.
WebMD warns that the practice of using malic acid by mouth is "possibly safe" but could cause side effects including nausea and diarrhea.
This article is for information only and is not intended as medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your specific health and medical needs.
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