Galactaric Acid

Galactaric acid (mucic acid) is a sugar-derived dicarboxylic acid used in cosmetics as a chelating agent. It's included to bind trace metals and support preservative and color stability, though current cosmetic evidence is limited.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A sugar-derived acid that helps keep formulas fresh and stable.
Category
Preservative
Type
Chelating Agent

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Helps maintain product freshness and clarity by minimizing discoloration and off-odors, though consumer-facing skin benefits are indirect and evidence is limited. Can improve overall formula performance consistency over time.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Commonly added to water-based serums, toners, and shampoos as a metal-binding stabilizer to support shelf life. Also used in cleansers to help keep color and scent more consistent during use.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Generally low risk at typical chelating levels. May cause brief stinging on sensitive or barrier-impaired skin; patch testing is sensible. No specific cosmetic regulatory restrictions are commonly cited.

Is Galactaric Acid a Good Ingredient?

It's Fair because it works primarily as a chelator, with limited clinical evidence for direct skin benefits beyond stabilizing the formula. Sensitive skin may experience mild stinging if the formula is more acidic or applied to compromised skin, which limits the rating.

Products with Galactaric Acid

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