Malic Acid

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are water-soluble organic exfoliating acids, and they occur naturally in many foods and milk sugars. Among the various types of hydroxy acids, we find:
Glycolic acid: derived from sugarcane, it is known for its effectiveness in promoting cellular turnover and improving skin texture.
Lactic acid: obtained from milk fermentation, it is gentle and hydrating, ideal for sensitive skin and increasing skin hydration.
Malic acid: extracted from apples, this acid helps exfoliate the skin and improve its radiance.
Tartaric acid: derived from grapes, it helps exfoliate the skin while improving its evenness and radiance.
Citric acid: found in citrus fruits, it is used to adjust the pH of cosmetics and has antioxidant properties.
Mandelic acid: derived from bitter almonds, it is known for its antibacterial properties and helps regulate sebum production.
Pyruvic acid: a powerful exfoliant that can significantly improve skin texture and reduce imperfections such as scars and dark spots.
The factors that affect the safety and effectiveness of AHA products are concentration, pH, exposure time, and the amount of free acid present.
For this reason, they should be used with caution to avoid possible adverse reactions, such as swelling, burning, and itching. Our advice is definitely not to overuse overly high concentrations and exposure times.
AHAs are typically found in products such as toners, serums, peels, and even cleansers: so be careful not to use too many skincare products that contain them. They can prove irritating and intolerable for your skin.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ALPHA AND BETA HYDROXY ACIDS
AHAs are short-chain hydroxy acids that act on the outermost layer of the skin, stimulating cellular turnover and improving skin elasticity. Thanks to their properties, AHAs are often used to treat dry skin, sun-damaged skin, or skin with dark spots.
BHAs, on the other hand, are long-chain hydroxy acids that act deeply, penetrating pores and removing excess sebum and dead skin cells. For their beneficial properties, BHAs (mainly Salicylic Acid) are used to treat oily skin, acne-prone skin, or skin with enlarged pores.
If a cosmetic product is formulated with both types of these acids, it will provide a deeper exfoliation full of benefits for the skin. Always remember to follow the instructions for correct product application!