Allowed in EU · Annex V

Citric Acid

A cosmetic ingredient used as buffering, chelating, fragrance in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

2-Hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid

What does it do?

Citric Acid is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:

Buffering
stabilises the pH of a product
Chelating
binds metal ions to prevent them from interfering with formulation stability
Fragrance
provides scent or masks the natural odour of other ingredients

EU regulatory status

Citric Acid is listed in Annex V of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 as a substance permitted for the corresponding category of use.

Frequently asked questions

What is Citric Acid?

Citric Acid is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. 2-Hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid

Is Citric Acid allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

Yes. Citric Acid is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.

What does Citric Acid do in cosmetic products?

Citric Acid is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: buffering, chelating, fragrance.

What is the CAS number of Citric Acid?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Citric Acid is 77-92-9 / 5949-29-1.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 06/08/2020