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CITRIC ACID

Last update on Jan 12, 2026

Citric acid as an ingredient in cosmetic and skin care products is in vogue for a reason. It has multiple benefits - from preserving the formulations to preserving the skin. This naturally occurring ingredient deep cleanses the skin and has anti-aging properties. Moreover, Citric acid increases the shelf life of cosmetic and skin care products by acting as a preservative. In essence, it is great for the skin and is a magical ingredient that takes formulations to the next level. The chemical formula of Citric acid is C6H8O7.

CAS Number: 77-92-9 / 5949-29-1Chem/IUPAC Name: 2-Hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid EINECS/ELINCS No: 201-069-1COSING REF No: 32858

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What is CITRIC ACID used for?

Citric acid is primarily a chelating agent that stabilizes formulations and is pretty effective for the skin and hair. It is used in a range of products such as cleansers, soaps, and bath bombs.

  • For skin, it is a great exfoliating agent that leaves the skin soft and supple. It removes dead skin cells and also unclogs pores. Moreover, it has astringent properties which means that it removes excess oil from the skin and leaves it super clean. Citric acid skin care is a great way to keep the skin youthful and healthy
  • In cosmetics products, it works as a preservative to increase the shelf life of the formulations. It binds different ingredients together and keeps them from separating

Origin

Citric acid is a naturally-occurring alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) obtained from citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.

What does CITRIC ACID do in a formulation?

CHELATING|
MASKING|
PRESERVATIVE|
ANTIOXIDANT|
ASTRINGENT

Safety Profile

Citric acid is considered safe for use as it is milder and gentler than most other acids. However, it may cause redness and irritation on highly sensitive skin. Therefore, a patch test is recommended. Since Citric acid exfoliates the skin deeply, it gets more susceptible to the harmful rays of the sun. Therefore, a sunscreen with good SPF should be used after treating the skin with Citric acid.

CITRIC ACID alternatives

CITRIC ACID technical profile

PropertyValues
Boiling Point310°C
Melting Point153°C
pH3.0-6.0
SolubilitySoluble in water
Viscosity6.5 cP