Ingredient glossary
Citric Acid
INCI: Citric Acid
Decent support
Does Citric Acid clash with what you already use? Check it →A reasonable supporting ingredient. It helps a formula without being the star.
What it does
- pH adjuster
- mild exfoliation
- brightening
moderate evidenceEvidence supports citric acid as a mild exfoliant and pH adjuster that refines texture and supports acidic pH, though it is rarely the primary hero active in modern formulas.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Tends to suit
- normal
- oily
- combo
Approach with care
- very sensitive
- compromised barrier
- Clogs poresLow
- Irritation riskModerate
- pH-dependentIts effect depends on the product's pH
Pregnancy: Check with your doctor before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Plays well with
- other ahas
- vitamin c
This, for every label you own
One ingredient is easy. A full label is where it gets confusing. The Ingredient Decoder reads any product and tells you the honest truth, ingredient by ingredient.
Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.