What it is
Dilauryl citrate is an ester formed from citric acid and two molecules of lauryl (dodecyl) alcohol. It functions as a lightweight emollient that helps soften skin and improve the spreadability and feel of a formulation. It can also assist in dispersing other ingredients within the oil phase of a product.
Safety & warnings
Fatty-acid esters of this type are generally regarded as mild and well tolerated. As a lauryl-based emollient ester it is comparatively lightweight, though individual tolerance varies and patch testing is sensible for very reactive or acne-prone skin.
Origin & sourcing
It is produced synthetically by esterifying citric acid with lauryl alcohol; the constituent parts can derive from plant-sourced citrate and fatty alcohols.
Questions everyone asks
What does dilauryl citrate do in a sunscreen?
It acts as an emollient, softening skin and improving how the product spreads and feels; it is not a UV filter.
Is dilauryl citrate the same as citric acid?
No. It is an ester made from citric acid and lauryl alcohol, and it behaves as an emollient rather than as an acid.