Sodium citrate

Q: Is sodium citrate safe for sensitive skin?

Sodium citrate is generally considered safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin. However, individuals with extremely sensitive skin may experience mild irritation.

Q: What is the role of sodium citrate in cosmetics?

Sodium citrate acts primarily as a buffering agent in cosmetics, which helps to stabilize the pH of the product, ensuring it is not too acidic or too basic.

Q: Can sodium citrate cause allergic reactions?

Allergic reactions to sodium citrate are rare, but they can occur in individuals with sensitivities. Symptoms might include mild irritation such as redness or itching.

Q: Is sodium citrate used in food products?

Yes, sodium citrate is also used in food as a flavoring agent and as an acidity regulator. It is commonly found in processed cheeses, soft drinks, and effervescent tablets.

CAS: 68-04-2 | Synonyms: Trisodium citrate, Citric acid, trisodium salt, Sodium 2-hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylate +2

Safer alternative: Potassium citrate

Toxicity Score

2 /10

Lower Risk

Primary Concern

Under review

Found In

Shampoos, Toothpaste, Body Wash

Persona Risk

Low Risk for Skin & Allergy

Put Simply

Sodium citrate is often used in shampoos, toothpaste, and body washes to keep everything balanced by maintaining the right pH levels. It's considered very safe, so there's no need to worry about any big health risks with it in your products. You can feel good about using items with this ingredient in your daily routine.

Clinical Summary

Sodium citrate is commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products as a buffering agent, helping to maintain pH levels. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics, and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has assessed it as safe in the present practices of use and concentration. There are no significant health risks associated with its typical usage in cosmetic formulations.

What This Score Means

Lower Risk. This ingredient scores 2/10. Generally considered safer, though individual sensitivities may vary. Always check with your healthcare provider for specific concerns.

Regulatory Status

Cross-referenced safety assessments from regulatory bodies

Organization

Rating

Concern

EWG

Low or no concern at all for human health

ECHA

Considered safe

Not classified as hazardous

Also Listed On Labels As

Trisodium citrate Citric acid, trisodium salt Sodium 2-hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylate Sodium citrate tribasic Citrosodine

Risk by Health Profile

Skin & Allergy Low Risk

Sodium citrate is generally safe, but in rare cases, it may cause mild skin irritation to sensitive individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sodium citrate safe for sensitive skin?

What is the role of sodium citrate in cosmetics?

Can sodium citrate cause allergic reactions?

Is sodium citrate used in food products?

Sources & Citations

[1]
PubMed Central (PMID: 17180484)
[2]
EWG Skin Deep
[3]
ECHA

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