Malic Acid
AKA “E296
Ingredient Facts
Malic acid
AKA: E296
Botanical-Derived Synthetic · Humectant · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Humectant
Exfoliant
Skin Conditioner
Clean
Derived from apples, malic acid gently balances the pH of skincare formulas to keep them stable and effective on skin.
Formula
C4H6O5
Mol. Weight
134.09
CAS #
97-67-6
See origin →
Functions
pH Adjuster
Exfoliating
Removes dead skin cells so fresh ones can come through. Chemical exfoliants (acids) are generally gentler than physical scrubs.
Humectant
A moisture magnet. Pulls water from the air and deeper skin layers up to the surface to keep skin plump and hydrated.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Buffering
Provides scent
Maintains optimal pH
Traditional Use
This is a quality assurance notation indicating compliance with Food Chemicals Codex standards, not an ingredient.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
EWG
4
CIR
Insufficient
Pregnancy
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
ewg-4
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USAunder review
CANADApermitted
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Feb 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR