Citric acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from citrus fruits, most commonly used in low concentrations to adjust and stabilize a product's pH. At higher concentrations it functions as a mild exfoliant and antioxidant.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Mild stinging or tingling on application | Common | Transient, more likely on broken or sensitive skin or at higher concentrations. |
Skin irritation or redness | Uncommon | More frequent at exfoliating concentrations and low pH. |
Increased photosensitivity (sunburn risk) | Common | Typical of AHAs at exfoliating levels; sunscreen use is advised. |
Dryness or peeling | Uncommon | Associated with regular use at higher concentrations. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Documented but infrequent sensitization. |
Chemical burn | Very rare | Reported 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.