Citric Acid – Anhydrous
Citric acid is a weak organic acid naturally occurring in citrus fruits, especially lemons and limes. In cosmetic formulations, it is widely used as a pH adjuster, chelating agent, and antioxidant, helping to balance acidity, support preservative efficacy, and improve overall formulation stability.
This fine, water-soluble powder is a staple for formulators. It can be dissolved in distilled water and added during the cool-down phase of a formulation for final pH adjustment. Always test with a calibrated pH meter or strips before finalising a product. Citric acid is typically added to the water phase of emulsions, gels, and surfactant-based products, where it also functions as a chelating agent by binding metal ions and reducing the risk of oxidative degradation.
In bath and body care, citric acid is most commonly recognised as a key ingredient in bath bombs, where it reacts with bicarbonate of soda to create effervescence.
While citric acid can lower pH and extend product shelf life by supporting preservative performance, it is not a broad-spectrum preservative and must be used alongside an appropriate preservation system.
Common Name: Citric Acid
INCI: Citric acid
Certification: Conventional
Appearance: Fine white crystalline powder
Solubility: Water soluble
Functions: pH adjuster, chelating agent, antioxidant
Purity: 100%
Usage Rate: As required for pH adjustment; typical use 0.1–0.5% as chelating agent
Skin Type Recommended: Suitable for most formulations (not used directly on skin)
Vegan: Yes
Palm Oil: No
Animal Tested: No
All our products are for external use only.
Free Shipping for Orders over $130
Orders under $130 freight is $8.50 Outer Islands may be charged additional shipping fee. We will contact you before your order is processed. This includes: Great Barrier Island, Stewart Island & the Chatham Islands.
Please Read: Shipping & Delivery
Order Cancellation & Returns Double-check your shopping cart to make sure it includes the correct products you intended to purchase.
We offer a 100% guarantee. If you are not happy with your product, send it back to us in original condition within 7 days of the date of delivery. No claims are acknowledged after this time.
Please Read: Returns Policy
General Care, Safety & Storage Information:
- Go Native New Zealand specialise in skincare, cosmetic and aromatherapy ingredients. We are NOT licensed to sell food. This means our products are not food grade, for this reason we advise you not to use our products internally, or for culinary purposes
- Always follow product-specific notes or directions.
- Keep all products out of reach of pets and children.
- We recommend storing all products in a dark, damp-free, cool place at room temperature (unless stated otherwise).
- Keep your products away from direct sunlight.
You may also like
Recently viewed
