Citric Acid
Ingredient Name: Citric Acid
What is it? Citric acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits. It is used as a natural pH adjuster for cosmetic products to maintain a pH similar to the skin. The skin functions most optimally when the pH is balanced. Skin that’s too acidic or too alkaline can lead to skin problems.*
Nourishing properties:*
- Balances pH
- Exfoliates skin
- Promotes hydration
*= This information has not been approved by the FDA.
References
Ali, S, and G Yosipovitch. “Skin PH: From Basic Science to Basic Skin Care.” Acta Dermato Venereologica, vol. 93, no. 3, 2013, pp. 261–267., doi:10.2340/00015555-1531.
Tarun, Jose, et al. “Evaluation of PH of Bathing Soaps and Shampoos for Skin and Hair Care.” Indian Journal of Dermatology, vol. 59, no. 5, 2014, p. 442., doi:10.4103/0019-5154.139861.
Bernstein, Eric F., et al. “Citric Acid Increases Viable Epidermal Thickness and Glycosaminoglycan Content of Sundamaged Skin.” The Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering, Wiley-Blackwell, 19 June 2013, onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1524-4725.1997.tb00391.x/abstract.
Kornhauser, Andrija. “Applications of Hydroxy Acids: Classification, Mechanisms, and Photoactivity.” Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2010, p. 135., doi:10.2147/ccid.s9042.
“Citric Acid.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubChem Compound Database, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/citric_acid.