Disliked
Citric Acid
AHA
AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) are water-soluble acids that gently dissolve dead skin cells on the surface, revealing brighter, smoother skin. Great for dry or sun-damaged skin, but always use SPF when using AHAs.
Good for Oily Skin
Oily Skin is determined by your genetics, but can also be influenced by factors such as stress levels, changing hormonal levels, and humidity.
Brightening
Brightening
Good for Texture
The most common cause of textured skin is a build up of dead skin cells. The easiest way to get rid of textured skin is to exfoliate and give your skin the proper nutrients.
Reduces Large Pores
Pores are tiny openings in the skin that release sweat and oil. Everyone has them, and it's completely normal for them to be visible. While factors like excess oil, acne, sun damage, and even genetics can make pores appear larger, these ingredients may help minimize their appearance. Just keep in mind: you can't erase pores entirely, and that's okay!
Good for Scar Healing
These ingredients are commonly used to support the skin's natural healing process and improve the appearance of scars over time. While results can vary, they may help with texture, discoloration, and overall skin recovery.
Can worsen Rosacea
These ingredients are known to be potential triggers for rosacea. However, triggers vary greatly between individuals. Keep a diary to identify your personal triggers and work with a dermatologist to develop a gentle, effective routine.
Explained
Citric Acid is an AHA derived from citrus fruits (think oranges, lemons, and limes!).
As an AHA, Citric Acid removes the top layer of skin cells from the newer layer of skin underneath. This helps skin to remove dark spots and even out skin tone.
If you spot Citric Acid near the end of an ingredient list, it's likely there as a pH adjuster rather than an active ingredient.
Read more about some other popular AHA's here:
See all 25,189 products with Citric Acid
Users who like it
16%
Users who avoid it
84%
What it does
Masking
Obscuring or blocking
Buffering
Buffering ingredients help stabilise or adjust the ph level of a product.
Prevalence
Common
Percentage of products that contain it
26.9%
Top categories
Cleansers
Treatments
Moisturizers
Position
Predominant list placement
Bottom 25%
Concentration
Concentrations we've seen
0% to
7%
References
Products with Citric Acid
CosIng Data
CosIng ID
32858
INCI Name
CITRIC ACID
INN Name
citric acid
EC #
 201-069-1
Ph. Eur. Name
acidum citricum
All Functions
Buffering, Chelating, Masking
