Citric acid in skincare
An organic acid often used to adjust pH.
What is citric acid?
An organic acid often used to adjust pH. On the ingredient list, you can find the name Citric Acid. The dictionary uses both the common name and the INCI name, so you can compare the explanation with the packaging.
What does citric acid do for skin and the product?
Helps the manufacturer adjust the product's acidity.
Supporting ingredients can control pH, solubility, texture and stability. They are not necessarily added for a direct effect on skin, but may be needed for a particular product type to work.
A name containing acid does not necessarily mean the product exfoliates.
How to read the ingredient list
Look at the product's purpose and overall composition. Position on the list does not tell you the exact concentration used or how your skin will react. One substance can serve several purposes in the same product.
Questions about citric acid
What does citric acid do in skincare?
Helps the manufacturer adjust the product's acidity.
What should I know about citric acid?
A name containing acid does not necessarily mean the product exfoliates.
Related ingredients
About sources and ingredient names
The European Commission's CosIng database is a reference for cosmetic ingredient names and functions. An entry does not constitute approval of all uses or evidence of a particular product effect.
DermNet: functions of moisturising care · DermNet: cosmetic formulations