What it is
Triethyl Citrate is a clear, low-odor liquid made by esterifying citric acid with ethanol. In formulas it functions as a solvent and plasticizer, helping to soften and flexibilize films and to dissolve other ingredients, and it can also serve a skin-conditioning role. In sunscreens it can improve the texture and flexibility of the dried film and help carry other components.
Safety & warnings
Triethyl Citrate is generally regarded as well tolerated in cosmetic use, with a low likelihood of irritation. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen and is not a comedogenic oil. It is also used in other applications such as a deodorant ingredient, reflecting its broad acceptance for skin contact.
Origin & sourcing
Typically synthetic, produced by esterifying citric acid with ethanol; both starting materials can be derived from fermentation or other sources.
Questions everyone asks
What role does Triethyl Citrate play in a formula?
It acts mainly as a solvent and plasticizer, helping dissolve ingredients and keep films soft and flexible, and it can condition the skin.
Where does Triethyl Citrate come from?
It is the triethyl ester of citric acid, made by reacting citric acid with ethanol.