murphyMalic Acid
AKA: MEETS ANALYTICAL SPECIFICATION OF FCC
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Plant-Derived Synthetic
Acid
Not Clean
OriginMalic acid is naturally found in apples and other fruits, then isolated through fermentation or chemical synthesis. It is produced by fermenting carbohydrates with specific microorganisms or synthesized through catalytic processes from petroleum-derived precursors.
(S)-malic acid is an optically active form of malic acid having (S)-configuration. It has a role as a geroprotector. It is a conjugate acid of a (S)-malate(2-). It is an enantiomer of a (R)-malic acid.
Formula
C4H6O5
Mol. Weight
134.09
CAS #
97-67-6
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Functions
pH Adjuster
Buffering
Provides scent
Maintains optimal pH
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory2 listings →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
—
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 749)
Eye Irritant in Testing
2 studies / 2 irritating / reactions severe (CIR 749)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
5 studies / 3 irritating / 2 not irritating / reactions moderate to strong (CIR 330 and 749)
Dermal Absorption 0.003%
human epidermal membranes / in vitro static diffusion cells / shampoo with radiolabeled L-Malic Acid <1% pH 5.0-7.0 single dose rinsed off (CIR 749)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.000012–2.1%
Rinse-off0.00013–4%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2016 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR