Fumaric Acid

Fumaric acid is an organic dicarboxylic acid that occurs in nature and is manufactured for cosmetic applications. It's used to adjust acidity and as an acid component in exfoliating formats, with performance varying by concentration, pH, and the overall system.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An acid used to balance pH and gently refine skin texture.
Category
Skin Conditioning
Type
pH Adjuster

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Can help refine texture and improve clarity when used at an effective pH, though results depend on the overall formula.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Found in exfoliating gels, cleansers, and peel solutions, either blended with other acids or to fine-tune product acidity.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

May cause tingling, dryness, or irritation, particularly at low pH or when overused. Avoid applying to broken or freshly shaved skin, introduce it gradually, and patch test if you're sensitive.

Is Fumaric Acid a Good Ingredient?

It's Fair because its exfoliating effect depends strongly on concentration and pH, and it's simply less documented than more common AHAs and BHAs. At lower pH or higher levels it can sting or irritate, especially on compromised skin, which keeps the rating in check.

Products with Fumaric Acid

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