Citric Acid Monohydrate (PH Adjuster)

INIC NAME: Citric Acid

PRODUCT TYPE: Cosmetic Formulation Ingredient | pH Adjuster | Acidifying Agent

DESCRIPTION:

Citric Acid Monohydrate is a white, crystalline powder containing citric acid with one molecule of water of crystallisation. It is a versatile ingredient used in cosmetic and personal care formulations to adjust and regulate pH levels.

It is particularly useful when formulating skincare, haircare, bath products, and other water-based cosmetic preparations that require a specific pH range. By helping to lower pH, Citric Acid Monohydrate allows formulators to fine-tune their products to meet formulation requirements.

Citric acid can also function as a chelating aid by binding certain metal ions, helping to support formulation stability when used appropriately. Its performance depends on the formulation, concentration, and other ingredients used.

Benefits of Citric Acid Monohydrate

• pH adjustment: Helps lower the pH of cosmetic formulations when needed.
• Formulation control: Supports formulators in achieving the desired pH range for their products.
• Chelating support: Can bind certain metal ions, potentially helping to reduce metal-related formulation issues.
• Versatile ingredient: Suitable for a variety of cosmetic and personal care applications.
• Useful in rinse-off products: Can be incorporated into selected shampoos, cleansers, and bath formulations.
• Supports formulation compatibility: Helps formulators adjust pH to suit the requirements of compatible ingredients and preservatives.

Product Type

• Cosmetic raw material
• pH adjuster and acidifying agent
• Crystalline organic acid
• Formulation aid

What Is Citric Acid Monohydrate Used For?

Citric Acid Monohydrate can be used in the formulation of:

• Skincare products: Selected creams, lotions, facial cleansers, and toners requiring pH adjustment.
• Haircare products: Shampoos, conditioners, and other haircare formulations where pH control is required.
• Bath products: Bath bombs and selected bath preparations, where appropriate for the formulation.
• Liquid soaps and cleansers: For carefully controlled pH adjustment, depending on the product chemistry.
• Other water-based cosmetics: Formulations that require adjustment to a specified pH range.

How to Use

Dissolve Citric Acid Monohydrate in a small amount of suitable water before adding it gradually to a compatible formulation. Mix thoroughly and measure the pH after each addition until the target pH is reached.

The amount required depends on the formulation’s initial pH, buffering capacity, and desired final pH. There is no single universal usage rate.

Important: Always check the compatibility of the final pH with the product’s ingredients and preservative system. Citric acid can lower pH significantly, so avoid adding it directly in large amounts. Conduct stability and suitability testing on the finished product.

Product Specifications

• Appearance: White crystalline powder or granules
• Chemical name: Citric Acid Monohydrate
• Chemical formula: C₆H₈O₇·H₂O
• Solubility: Soluble in water
• Main function: pH adjustment and acidification
• Application: Cosmetic and personal care formulation

Storage

Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place. Protect from moisture and contamination.