INCI name

Citric Acid

Also listed as: A fruit acid, used to set pH

Citric acid is a weak organic acid found in citrus fruit and produced industrially by fermentation. In cosmetics it is used far more often to adjust pH than as a peeling "fruit acid" treatment. A tiny amount can bring a formula down to a skin-friendly pH so that preservatives work and soaps feel less alkaline.

When you see citric acid near the end of a long list, it is probably a pH adjuster. When it is high on the list of a peel or a powder cleanser, it is there for acidity.

Where it turns up

Almost any water-based product that needs its pH set, plus some peel pads and bath bombs.

Sensitivities

In high amounts it can sting, as any acid can. As a trace pH adjuster it is rarely the problem ingredient.

Vegan or animal-derived

Usually made by fermentation of sugars. Vegan.

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