Citric Acid – Anhydrous

Citric acid is a weak organic acid naturally occurring in citrus fruits, especially lemons and limes. In cosmetic formulations, it is widely used as a pH adjuster, chelating agent, and antioxidant, helping to balance acidity, support preservative efficacy, and improve overall formulation stability.

This fine, water-soluble powder is a staple for formulators. It can be dissolved in distilled water and added during the cool-down phase of a formulation for final pH adjustment. Always test with a calibrated pH meter or strips before finalising a product. Citric acid is typically added to the water phase of emulsions, gels, and surfactant-based products, where it also functions as a chelating agent by binding metal ions and reducing the risk of oxidative degradation.

In bath and body care, citric acid is most commonly recognised as a key ingredient in bath bombs, where it reacts with bicarbonate of soda to create effervescence.

While citric acid can lower pH and extend product shelf life by supporting preservative performance, it is not a broad-spectrum preservative and must be used alongside an appropriate preservation system.

Common Name: Citric Acid

INCI: Citric acid
Certification: Conventional
Appearance: Fine white crystalline powder
Solubility: Water soluble
Functions: pH adjuster, chelating agent, antioxidant
Purity: 100%
Usage Rate: As required for pH adjustment; typical use 0.1–0.5% as chelating agent
Skin Type Recommended: Suitable for most formulations (not used directly on skin)
Vegan: Yes
Palm Oil: No
Animal Tested: No

All our products are for external use only.