Quick answer
Is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA); Is one of the chief acids in wine; Has antioxidant properties; Helps maintain the pH that other AHAs need to act as exfoliants; Is safe as used in cosmetics Key benefits: Smooths Bumpy Skin, Evens Skin Tone, Anti-Aging.
Tartaric Acid
Updated
2,3-Dihydroxybutanedioic acid
Purpose
This acid acts as both an antioxidant and alpha hydroxy acid. It also helps stabilize the pH of other AHAs so they can work as exfoliants.
Rating
BEST
Category
Exfoliant, pH Adjuster/Stabilizer
INCI Purpose
BUFFERING, FRAGRANCE
Benefits
Alternative Names
At a Glance
Is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA)
Is one of the chief acids in wine
Has antioxidant properties
Helps maintain the pH that other AHAs need to act as exfoliants
Is safe as used in cosmetics
Article
Tartaric acid is a naturally occurring crystalline organic acid found in many plants, including grapes and tamarinds. It is one of the chief acids in wine. Tartaric acid has antioxidant properties and is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), though it is not quite as well-researched when it comes to skin benefits as glycolic and lactic acids.
It functions best in helping to maintain the pH range that other AHAs need to work their magic. In certain formulas, it helps provide more targeted exfoliation, as each type of AHA has its layer-by-layer benefits owing to its molecular size.
Interestingly, in vitro studies have shown that when tartaric acid is broken down into derivatives known as tartramides, its chemical structure mimics that of skin’s own ceramides. In a lab setting, these tartramides were shown to successfully replace ceramides in a model of skin’s lipid matrix; however, it’s unknown if this benefit also occurs on intact skin via cosmetic products.
Tartaric acid has been deemed safe as used in cosmetics.
See: AHA
References