Citric acid is a naturally occurring organic acid that is commonly found in citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. It is a crystalline powder with a sour taste and is widely used in the beauty, personal care, and wellbeing industry.
Citric acid can also be listed on product labels as E330, 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid, or sour salt.
Ingredient functions - Citric acid serves multiple functions in beauty, personal care, and wellbeing products. It acts as a pH adjuster, helping to balance the acidity or alkalinity of a formulation. It also functions as a chelating agent, which means it can bind to metal ions and prevent them from interfering with the stability and effectiveness of a product. Additionally, citric acid is used as a preservative, as it can inhibit the growth of microorganisms.
Concerns - Citric acid is generally considered safe for use in beauty, personal care, and wellbeing products. However, some individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation or allergic reactions. It is advisable to perform a patch test before using products containing citric acid, especially for those with known sensitivities. Additionally, excessive use of citric acid in high concentrations may cause skin dryness or disruption of the skin's natural barrier.