Sodium Citrate, chemically known as trisodium citrate, is the sodium salt of citric acid. It is a natural acid found in citrus fruits and is produced commercially by neutralizing citric acid with sodium hydroxide.

Usage in Cosmetics:
  • In cosmetics and personal care products, Sodium Citrate primarily functions as a pH adjuster. It helps stabilize the pH of a product, ensuring it remains within a range agreeable to the skin.
  • It is also used as a buffering agent, helping to maintain the stability and efficacy of active ingredients in a product.
  • Additionally, Sodium Citrate can act as a chelating agent, binding with metal ions in a formula, which can improve the sensory feel of the product and prevent the degradation of active ingredients.

Other Names:
Trisodium Citrate
Citric Acid, Trisodium Salt
Sodium Citrate Dihydrate (when in hydrated form)

Skin Sensitivities and Risks:

Sodium Citrate is generally considered safe and non-irritating for most skin types, including sensitive skin.

However, as with any ingredient, it can cause reactions in individuals with specific allergies or sensitivities. It's always recommended to patch-test new products.

It is known for its low potential to sensitize or irritate the skin, making it a suitable ingredient for products aimed at sensitive skin consumers.
Additional Notes:

It is often appreciated for its ability to enhance the penetration of other ingredients into the skin, which can be beneficial in formulations designed for specific skin concerns.

Being a salt derived from a naturally occurring acid, it aligns well with formulations aimed at natural or clean beauty markets.

Sodium Citrate is widely used and well-regarded for its safety and efficacy, but it is always crucial to consider the overall formulation of a product, as interactions between ingredients can influence the final product's suitability for sensitive skin.

How safe is it?

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