Citric Acid
Ingredient information
- INCI name: CITRIC ACID
- CAS number : 77-92-9 / 5949-29-1
- Functions:
• pH regulator : Stabilises the pH of cosmetics.
• Chelating : Reacts and forms complexes with metal ions that could affect the stability and/or appearance of cosmetic products.
• Masking : Reduces or inhibits the odor or basic taste of the product.
- Biodegradable citrus derivative
- Used in small amounts to adjust the pH of products
- Prevents formulas from being too alkaline
- At certain concentrations, can exfoliate the skin
- Organic-compatible (COSMOS Reference).
Description of citric acid
Citric acid is a citrus extract (one of the main active ingredients in lemon) and is primarily used in small amounts to adjust the pH of products to prevent them from being too alkaline or basic.
Citric acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid and as such, in the right formula and concentration, can exfoliate the skin. However, research into this ability has so far focused on much higher concentrations (e.g. 20%) than are typically used in skincare products.
INCI Beauty rating: Green
The ingredients in this dictionary are evaluated based on validated and peer-reviewed scientific research. Our main source is the French application INCI Beauty, which itself relies on European cosmetics regulations and various scientific reference bodies.
Regulations regarding usage constraints, authorized concentration levels and availability vary by country and region. This ingredient dictionary is for informational purpose only and is not meant to replace official sources. Its original content is in French, which is then translated into English. Although we strive to always provide you with correct and up-to-date information, if you have any doubts about an ingredient, we recommend that you consult the official sources of your country regarding cosmetic regulations.
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