Citric Acid — Allergy Risk & Safety Profile
INCI: CITRIC ACID
Key Facts
- CAS Number
- 77-92-9
- Category
- ph adjuster
- Risk Level
- low
- Common Allergen
- No
- Found In
- toner, cleanser, all
Is Citric Acid safe in cosmetics?
Citric Acid is rated low risk in cosmetic products. It is not classified as a common allergen and is generally well-tolerated by most skin types. Commonly found in toner, cleanser, all.
What is Citric Acid?
Common pH adjuster and mild AHA. Also functions as a chelating agent.
Allergy & Safety Information
Citric Acid is considered safe for cosmetic use. No significant safety concerns have been identified at typical use concentrations. As with any cosmetic ingredient, discontinue use if irritation occurs.
This ingredient is considered low risk from an allergenicity perspective. Reactions are uncommon at typical cosmetic use concentrations. However, no ingredient is universally safe — if you notice redness, itching, or irritation after using a product containing this ingredient, discontinue use and monitor whether symptoms resolve.
How to Identify Citric Acid in Products
Cosmetic ingredients are listed by their INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name in descending order of concentration. To check whether a product contains Citric Acid, scan the ingredient list for its INCI name exactly as it appears above. Ingredients present at 1% or less may appear in any order after the 1% threshold.
Product types to prioritise checking: Toner, Cleanser, All. These product categories are the most common sources of Citric Acid exposure based on formulation data.
Not sure if your products contain Citric Acid? Paste the ingredient list into the free ingredient checker to scan for Citric Acid and other allergens automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Citric Acid safe for sensitive skin?
Citric Acid is generally well-tolerated, even by sensitive skin types.
What products contain Citric Acid?
Citric Acid is commonly found in toner, cleanser, all.
What does Citric Acid do in cosmetics?
Citric Acid functions as a ph_adjuster in formulations.
Related Guides
Is Citric Acid causing YOUR skin reactions?
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