Ingredient glossary

Tartaric Acid

INCI: Tartaric Acid

Decent support

A reasonable supporting ingredient. It helps a formula without being the star.

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What it does

  • exfoliation
  • pH adjuster

weak evidenceTartaric acid appears frequently in multi-acid formulas and peels, but standalone clinical data are limited compared with better-studied AHAs.

Who it's for, and who should skip it

Tends to suit

  • normal
  • oily
  • combo

Approach with care

  • very sensitive
  • compromised barrier
  • Clogs poresLow
  • Irritation riskModerate
  • pH-dependentIts effect depends on the product's pH

Pregnancy: Check with your doctor before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Plays well with

  • other ahas

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Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.