Triethyl Citrate

Triethyl citrate is the triethyl ester of citric acid, used across cosmetics and personal care. It acts as a mild, oil-soluble solvent and plasticizer, improving spreadability, stabilizing fragrance, and refining texture without a heavy feel.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
Helps reduce body odor and gives formulas a light, silky feel.
Category
Skin Conditioning
Type
Solvent

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Helps curb body odor by slowing the breakdown of sweat, supporting a fresher feel, and also contributes to a silky, lightweight skin feel without greasiness.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in deodorant sticks and sprays, fine fragrances, and lightweight fluid moisturizers to improve application and formula aesthetics.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Generally well tolerated with low irritation potential, though fragranced formulas using it may tingle on freshly shaved or compromised underarm skin. No widely cited cosmetic restrictions. Discontinue use if persistent redness or stinging occurs.

Is Triethyl Citrate a Good Ingredient?

It rates Good as a reliable solvent and plasticizer that improves texture and aids deodorant performance by slowing sweat-degrading processes. It offers real utility without strong direct skin-care activity, which makes it a solid but not standout ingredient.

Products with Triethyl Citrate

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