Introduction
While exfoliating is key to maintaining healthy skin, using products that have a rough texture or an aggressive formula risks damaging your skin barrier. If you've been put off by skin-care acids out of fear that you won't be able to tolerate them, a reliable skin-care ingredient that will make you glow is malic acid.
What Is Malic Acid?
Naturally derived from fruits like apples, cherries, and pears, malic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that can be beneficial for skin. It helps break up the 'glue' between dead skin cells, resulting in smoother and healthier skin.
Benefits of Malic Acid for Skin
Malic acid aids in exfoliating the skin, diminishing the appearance of discoloration, treating fine lines and wrinkles, and unclogging pores. It can also be beneficial in treating melasma.
How to Use Malic Acid For Skin
Use malic acid as a supporting actor in your skincare routine, rather than the primary source of exfoliation. Opt for products that include other beneficial components like vitamin C, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid. Start by applying malic acid once a week and gradually increase the frequency of use.
Is Malic Acid Safe For Sensitive Skin?
Malic acid is generally gentle on the skin, but it can be irritating for sensitive skin types. It's recommended to do a patch test before using it on your entire face. If malic acid is too harsh for your skin, try other gentle chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid and lactic acid. Apply a hyaluronic-acid-based serum before using malic acid to ensure your skin stays hydrated. If irritation occurs, apply hydrating fatty acids like coconut oil, avocado oil, or shea butter to counteract it.
With the rise of skincare acids, malic acid has become a popular ingredient due to its ability to exfoliate the skin gently. By understanding how to use malic acid and its benefits, you can achieve smoother and brighter-looking skin.
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