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Citric Acid

Citric Acid
Also known as: 2-Hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic Acid
AHAExfoliatingpH adjuster

A gentle AHA from citrus that adjusts pH and mildly exfoliates.

Skin types
All types
Pore-clogging
Non-comedogenic
Use when
Evening
Concentration
0.5–10%;
What it does

Citric acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from citrus fruits. In most skincare formulations it is used primarily as a pH adjuster to bring products to the optimal acid range. At higher concentrations it functions as a mild exfoliant. It also acts as an antioxidant and chelating agent.

Benefits
  • Adjusts product pH for optimal active ingredient performance
  • Mild exfoliating properties at higher concentrations
  • Antioxidant activity
  • Helps brighten skin tone with regular use
How to layer
🌙 Evening routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
Face Oil
After cleansing, before moisturiser
Good for
All skinNormal skinOily skinCombination skin
Heads up
  • At higher exfoliating concentrations, may irritate sensitive skin
  • Increases photosensitivity — use SPF in the morning
How to use

Typically a supporting ingredient. When used as an AHA exfoliant, apply at night and follow with SPF.

Typical concentration: 0.5–10%; most products use low concentrations for pH adjustment