Malpighia Glabra (Acerola) Fruit Juice

Best

Antioxidant

Malpighia Glabra (Acerola) Fruit Juice at a glance

  • AKA acerola cherry juice or acerola juice
  • Best known for anti-aging benefits
  • High antioxidant concentrations support even skin tone
  • Contains high levels of vitamin C

Malpighia Glabra (Acerola) Fruit Juice description

_Malpighia glabra_ (acerola) fruit juice is a plant-derived, antioxidant-rich ingredient derived from the juice of acerola cherries, AKA Barbados cherries. The acerola cherry is often referred to as a “superfood,” as it contains many beneficial compounds. _Malpighia glabra_ (acerola) fruit juice contains carotenoids, like lutein, polyphenols, including anthocyanins, and vitamins, namely vitamin C, AKA ascorbic acid. All these compounds have antioxidant properties, meaning they work to curb the pro-aging and damaging impacts that environmental agents can have on skin. Studies reveal that this superfood and its many ingredients specifically excel when it comes to helping protect skin against UVB rays, the prime suspect behind sunburns and sunspots. However, acerola is not a sunscreen active approved by the FDA and cannot fully protect skin from all UV rays. Most research which supports the claim that _Malpighia glabra_ (acerola) fruit juice’s claims helps support healthy collagen in skin are not on topical application but on ingestion, either via supplement or drinking the juice itself. However, due to the ingredient’s high vitamin C content, it makes sense to believe this juice can help support collagen levels. A vitamin C supplement or other food sources of vitamin C likely have the same effect. Outside of skin care, _Malpighia glabra_ (acerola) fruit juice is often included in supplements and food preparations. Use levels of this ingredient in cosmetics range from 5.0%–10.0% when supplied in a water and glycerin base.

Malpighia Glabra (Acerola) Fruit Juice references

  • International Journal of Nutrology, April 2025, pages 1-6
  • Nutrients, February 2025, pages 1-16
  • International Journal of Molecular Sciences, February 2024, pages 1-17
  • Recycling, December 2023, pages 1-22
  • Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization, October 2023, pages 216-239
  • Journal of Food Science and Technology, July 2018, pages 3,373-3,384
  • PLoS One, January 2017, ePublication
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2016, pages 346-353

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.