Citric Acid Powder

• 100% pure cosmetic-grade citric acid
• Adjusts product pH to maintain skin-friendly levels
• Mild exfoliating properties
• Helps preserve product stability and freshness
• Easy to dissolve in water-based formulas

Citric Acid Powder is a naturally occurring alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from citrus fruits, widely used in cosmetic formulations. Its primary role is to adjust and stabilize pH levels, ensuring that your skincare products are safe and effective. In addition to pH control, citric acid can also offer mild exfoliating properties, making it a popular choice for toners, peels, and serums. A little goes a long way, and it's highly soluble in water-based products.

INCI Name: Citric Acid

CAS Number: 77-92-9

Solubility: Water-soluble

Add Phase: Cool-Down Phase (after heating is complete)

pH Stability: Effective at 3.0–6.5

Processing Temperature: Below 60°C for optimal stability

Appearance: Fine white crystalline powder

Odor: Odorless

Molecular Weight: 192.12 g/mol

Flash Point: Non-flammable

Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling

Density: 1.66 g/cm³

• Usage Rate: 0.1–1% for pH adjustment

• Use in: Toners, Serums, Cleansers, Creams, Lotions

• Add at cool-down phase and always adjust gradually while testing pH
  
  

🍋 Want to lower the pH of your product naturally? Dissolve a small amount of Citric Acid in distilled water first, then add it drop by drop into your batch—testing pH as you go. Works beautifully in Vitamin C serums and exfoliating toners!

✔️ Suitable for all skin types when used within recommended dosage

⚠️ Use with caution on broken or overly sensitive skin due to its acidic nature

1. Brightening Vitamin C Toner

Combine Citric Acid with Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) in a water base to create a pH-balanced toner that gently exfoliates and brightens dull skin. Add hydrating agents like glycerin or panthenol and use a preservative like Germall Plus. Ideal for oily to normal skin types.

2. Oil-Free Clarifying Serum

Formulate a lightweight water-based serum with niacinamide and citric acid to unclog pores, reduce acne marks, and regulate skin’s natural pH. Use hyaluronic acid for hydration and minimal essential oils for fragrance. Perfect for acne-prone or combination skin.

3. Citrus Clay Detox Face Mask

Create a face mask using kaolin clay, citric acid, and a few drops of tea tree essential oil. This mask helps detox pores and gently exfoliates the top layer of dead skin cells. Great for weekly use on oily or congested skin.

4. pH-Balanced Facial Cleanser

Develop a gel-based cleanser using surfactants like coco-glucoside or decyl glucoside, with citric acid added at the end to bring the formula’s pH down to the skin-friendly range (4.5–5.5). Add soothing ingredients like chamomile extract for sensitive skin.

5. Shine-Boost Hair Rinse (Post-Shampoo)

A simple DIY hair rinse with water, citric acid, and apple cider vinegar helps close hair cuticles, reduce frizz, and add shine. Ideal for use after shampooing or post-coloring treatments.

Q1: Can I use citric acid directly on my face?

A1: Not directly. It should always be diluted and properly formulated into skincare products.

Q2: Will this help preserve my product?

A2: While not a preservative itself, Citric Acid helps stabilize and support preservatives by maintaining the correct pH.

Q3: Can it be used in hair care formulations?

A3: Yes, especially in conditioners and scalp treatments to balance pH and enhance shine.