Sodium Citrate
Sodium salt of citric acid. Acts as a buffering pH adjuster and mild metal chelator. Sets the optimal pH for active ingredients – such as vitamin C or acids. Often paired with citric acid to stabilise pH at a target level.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Sodium Citrate (Trisodium Citrate) is the sodium salt of citric acid. In cosmetics it performs three functions: buffering pH regulator (maintains formula pH), mild metal chelator (binds iron, copper, zinc ions from water), and weak antioxidant by protecting other actives from metal-catalyzed oxidation. Where applied. In vitamin C serums (maintaining optimal pH 3-4), in AHA creams (stabilizing pH 3.5-4.5), in shampoos and shower gels, in toothpastes. Often works with citric acid – 'citric acid / sodium citrate' – as the standard buffer system. Concentration 0.1-1%. Chelating advantage. Iron and copper ions from water (especially in hard water) accelerate oxidation of vitamin C, retinol, polyphenols. Sodium citrate binds these ions and stabilizes the formula. EDTA is a stronger chelator, but sodium citrate is a natural alternative with fewer environmental concerns. Safety. CIR confirmed sodium citrate safety in cosmetics (Final Report 2014). Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic. Systemically on oral use (as food additive E331) – safe. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. A natural food additive, no restrictions in any product.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sodium Citrate safe during pregnancy?
Sodium Citrate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sodium Citrate for?
Sodium Citrate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Sodium Citrate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Sodium salt of citric acid.
What's the INCI name for Sodium Citrate?
The INCI name is Sodium Citrate. It may also appear as: Trisodium Citrate.
See Sodium Citrate in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Sodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Sodium Cocoyl Alaninate, Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids, 4-Terpineol, CI 61570, Iron Oxides, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate
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