Exfoliant

Citric Acid

The most popular pH regulator in cosmetics is citric acid, present in the vast majority of products to maintain optimal acidity levels. At higher concentrations, it acts as an AHA exfoliant and antioxidant.

pH regulatorAHAAntioxidantChelator

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Citric Acid — an α-hydroxy acid (AHA) found in citrus fruits. In cosmetics, it serves several roles depending on the concentration: pH regulator (most common role, 0.1–1%), gentle AHA exfoliant (5–10%), metal chelator, and antioxidant. In INCI: Citric Acid.

Present in almost every cosmetic product as a pH regulator. In peels and toners — AHA active. Also used in natural cosmetics as a preservative booster and chelator instead of EDTA.

Key Benefits

✦

pH regulation for ingredient activity

Most actives are effective in a narrow pH range: HA — pH 4-7, vitamin C — pH < 3.5, AHA — pH < 4. Citric acid precisely adjusts the environment for optimal formula performance.

◈

Gentle AHA exfoliation

At concentrations of 5–10% at pH < 4 — an effective AHA that exfoliates dead skin cells, evens skin tone, and reduces the visibility of pores, although weaker than glycolic and lactic acids.

✧

Chelator and antioxidant

Binds metal ions and exhibits antioxidant activity — a natural alternative to EDTA in clean beauty formulations and enhances the stability of other antioxidants.

Suitable for

For all skin types (pH regulator)Oily and combination (AHA exfoliation)

Main Actions

✓ pH regulation✓ AHA exfoliation✓ Metal chelation✓ Antioxidant action

Lemon juice vs Citric Acid

Lemon juice contains citric acid but also unstable vitamins and bacteria — it does not replace cosmetic Citric Acid. Pure cosmetic Citric Acid is stable, sterile, and of controlled concentration. Never apply lemon juice to the skin without dilution.

CategoryExfoliants

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