Citric acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from citrus fruits used primarily to adjust and buffer formulation pH, and at higher concentrations to provide mild chemical exfoliation and antioxidant chelating effects. It is widely used as both a functional excipient and a treatment active depending on concentration.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild stinging or tingling on application | Common | Transient, more likely at higher concentrations or low pH. |
| Skin irritation, redness or dryness | Uncommon | More frequent with frequent use, high concentration, or compromised skin barrier. |
| Increased photosensitivity | Uncommon | AHAs can heighten UV sensitivity; sunscreen use is advised. |
| Allergic or irritant contact dermatitis | Rare | Reported occasionally in sensitive individuals. |
| Chemical burn with misuse | Very rare | Associated with very high concentrations or prolonged contact. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.