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Essentially Natural

Essentially Natural Malic Acid

Essentially Natural Malic Acid

Regular price R 39.00
Regular price Sale price R 39.00
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INCI: Malic Acid

Essentially Natural Malic Acid is a multifunctional alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) used in skincare and personal care formulations for gentle exfoliation and pH support. As a larger AHA molecule, it typically works more gradually on the skin surface, making it a popular choice for milder exfoliating concepts. It also has humectant properties that help support a more hydrated skin feel.

Also available in Sample Sizes.

This product is certified: Vegan, Food Safe, and Beauty Without Cruelty.

Need detailed info? COAs and SDSs are available — just send us the product name and batch number, and we’ll gladly share them with you.
  • INCI Name: Malic Acid
  • Type: AHA exfoliant and pH adjuster
  • Solubility: Water soluble
  • Phase: Water phase
  • Suggested Usage Rate: 1-3%
  • Texture: Fine powder
  • Size Options: 100g, 250g, 500g, 1kg, 2kg, 5kg or 10kg
  • Gentle exfoliating toners, serums, masks, and leave-on treatments
  • Skin-smoothing formulas for dull-looking or uneven-feel skin
  • Products for congested or blemish-prone skin types where mild exfoliation is desired
  • pH adjustment in lotions, shampoos, and other water-based formulas
  • Formulas paired with humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid for a more hydrated finish

    This product is suitable for:

  • Formulators wanting a gentler AHA option for mild exfoliating products
  • Sensitive-feel routines that prefer slower, surface-level exfoliation
  • DIY makers who are comfortable testing and adjusting final formula pH
  • This product is not:

  • Intended to be applied directly to skin as a raw powder
  • A substitute for sunscreen in daily sun protection routines
  • Ideal for users who cannot test and control final product pH
  • As an AHA in Water-Based Products: Dissolve into the water phase and use at 1-3% depending on product type and desired strength.
  • As a pH Adjuster: Add in very small increments, mix thoroughly, then re-test pH until your target is reached.
  • Processing Tip: Work with accurate scales and reliable pH testing to keep your finished product consistent and skin-comfort focused.
  • Processing Tip: Introduce exfoliating products gradually in a routine and adjust frequency based on skin comfort.
  • For external use only
  • Avoid inhaling powder and avoid contact with eyes, if contact occurs rinse thoroughly with water
  • Always formulate and dilute, do not apply neat to skin
  • Patch test finished products before wider use
  • Exfoliating acids can increase sun sensitivity, use daily sun protection when using AHA products
  • Keep well sealed and store away from children, pets, moisture, sunlight, and heat
  • If pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a healthcare professional before use

Q: Is malic acid a strong exfoliant?
A: It is commonly used for gentler exfoliating concepts because it tends to work more gradually than some smaller AHAs.

Q: Can I use malic acid with other actives?
A: It is often combined with humectants and other actives, but overall formula strength matters, so keep levels balanced to reduce irritation risk.

Q: Why do I need to test pH when formulating with acids?
A: Final pH affects both skin comfort and how an acid performs in a product, so testing helps you formulate more safely and consistently.

Q: Can I use malic acid in hair products?
A: It can be used in the water phase of haircare formulas as part of pH adjustment and overall formula design.

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