Maleic Acid

Maleic acid is a synthetic dicarboxylic acid used in personal care as a functional component to adjust pH, improve stability, and fine-tune viscosity or feel in pH-dependent systems; direct complexion benefits aren't well established.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A pH adjuster that keeps formulas stable and consistent to use.
Category
Tone/Texture
Type
pH Adjuster

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Helps keep products performing predictably and feeling consistent during application; direct skin benefits are not well established in current research.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used in toners, serums, and gels to maintain targeted acidity and preserve product texture over shelf life.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Irritation (tingling, redness) is possible, particularly on sensitive or compromised skin and in low-pH formulas. Avoid use on broken skin and patch test when uncertain.

Is Maleic Acid a Good Ingredient?

It works well as a pH adjuster and stabilizer, but direct skin benefits are unproven, and as an acid it can irritate at higher levels or low pH, which is why it lands at Fair.

Products with Maleic Acid

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