Is Citric Acid Safe? What You Need to Know
Safety Score
Concern Level: low
Citric Acid is generally considered safe for use in household and personal care products.
What Is Citric Acid?
A naturally occurring weak acid found in citrus fruits. Used as a pH adjuster and preservative enhancer in personal care and cleaning products.
Commonly found in: cleaning products, personal care, food preservation, bath bombs
Safety Research & Evidence
A naturally occurring weak acid found in citrus fruits. Used as a pH adjuster and preservative enhancer in personal care and cleaning products.
Regulatory status: GRAS by FDA; no restrictions in cosmetics or cleaning products
Health Concerns
No significant health concerns have been identified.
Safer Alternatives
| Alternative | Safety Score |
|---|---|
| Lactic Acid | 9/10 |
How to Avoid Citric Acid
- Read ingredient labels carefully for "Citric Acid" or its chemical synonyms
- Choose products with third-party certifications (EWG Verified, Made Safe)
- Consider alternatives like Lactic Acid
- Check the EWG Skin Deep database for product ratings
- Look for "Citric Acid-free" labels on product packaging
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Citric Acid safe for babies?
Citric Acid is generally considered acceptable for use around babies at typical concentrations in consumer products.
What are the safest alternatives to Citric Acid?
Safer alternatives include Lactic Acid (safety score: 9/10).
Is Citric Acid banned in other countries?
Regulatory status: GRAS by FDA; no restrictions in cosmetics or cleaning products
How do I know if my product contains Citric Acid?
Check the full ingredient list on the product label. Citric Acid may also appear under different chemical names. Using apps like EWG Healthy Living or Think Dirty can help identify it.
Related Safety Guides
References
- CIR Expert Panel (2014). Safety evaluation of citric acid in cosmetics PMID: 24782044