Triethyl Citrate
What triethyl citrate does in cosmetics, how it functions in deodorant and fragrance formulas, and why the label is not a pH promise.
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Quick facts
- INCI name
- Triethyl Citrate
- CAS number
- 77-93-0
- Origin
- Synthetic
- Chemical class
- Citric acid ester
- What it does in a formula
- solvent, deodorant, skin conditioning
- Why it is in the formula
- Helps dissolve other ingredients and contributes to deodorant or fragrance formulas.
What it is
Formed by reacting natural citric acid with ethanol, triethyl citrate is a versatile cosmetic ester that functions as a solvent, fixative, and odor-reducing agent. Unlike pure citric acid, it does not act primarily as a sharp acidifying agent, and its presence does not signal an exfoliating treatment formula.
You may find triethyl citrate in deodorants, body products, fragrance blends, or other cosmetics. It is a supporting ingredient, not an active you need to add separately. Its function depends on the formula, and the same ingredient can contribute to different formulation goals in different products.
What it does
- Acts as a solvent. It helps dissolve certain ingredients so they can be evenly incorporated into a formula.
- Supports deodorant formulas. It is used in some deodorants as part of the formula’s odor-control strategy, not as an antiperspirant active.
- Contributes to product feel. It can help shape the texture and application of a product.
- May have more than one formulation role.
Who it suits
There is no special skin type that needs triethyl citrate. You will encounter it as part of a finished product, often deodorant or fragrance, and the overall formula determines how it feels. Someone choosing a deodorant should distinguish deodorant from antiperspirant: the former addresses odor, while an antiperspirant is formulated to reduce sweating using approved active ingredients. Triethyl citrate is not itself an antiperspirant active.
If you have sensitive underarm skin, consider the entire formula, including fragrance and other potential irritants. A product can cause discomfort for reasons unrelated to triethyl citrate. Patch-test a new formula if you are prone to reactions, and stop using it if it causes persistent irritation. For recurring or severe skin issues, consult a dermatologist rather than trying to solve them by adding another cosmetic ingredient.
What to pair it with, and what not to
Triethyl citrate is used inside a formula, so it does not need a separate step. Use deodorant or fragrance as directed, and do not assume the presence of triethyl citrate provides sun protection or reduces sweating. Choose other products by their purpose and the finish you prefer.
Skin Realist check: An ingredient can be useful without needing its own starring-credit sequence.
Quick picks with Triethyl Citrate
Scent-free, no patch-test flags on the label
Sunday Riley Auto Correct Brightening + Depuffing Eye Cream
Caffeine · scent-free label
AmazonBrand lists it for sensitive skin
Perricone MD Cold Plasma Plus+ Hand Therapy
Shea butter, phospholipids and glycine · oily, dry, combination, sensitive, normal skin · scent-free label
AmazonBrand lists it for oily skin
Dermalogica skin soothing hydrating lotion
Plant-based squalane, sodium hyaluronate, ginger, orange, and grapefruit · oily, dry, combination, sensitive, normal skin · scented
Amazon
All 15 products with Triethyl Citrate
Daily Moisturizers & Water Gel Creams (3)
High-Definition Camouflage Concealers (3)
Hydrating Toners, Essence Waters & Face Mists (2)
Eye Creams & Under-Eye Patches (1)
Full-Coverage Camouflage & Liquid Foundations (1)
Body Creams, Butters & Body Oils (1)
Anti-Aging & Retinoid Serums (1)
Gel, Foam & Cream Facial Cleansers (1)
Cream & Gel Treatment Masks (1)
Hydrating Serums, Essences & Ampoules (1)
Common questions
What is triethyl citrate in skincare?
Triethyl citrate is an ester made from citric acid and ethanol. Cosmetic formulators use it as a solvent and in some deodorant and fragrance products.
Is triethyl citrate a pH adjuster?
It may be used in formulation for more than one purpose, but its name alone does not tell you that it is adjusting the pH of a particular product. The whole formula determines pH.
Why is triethyl citrate in deodorant?
It can be used as a solvent and as part of the formulation strategy for deodorants. It is not the same thing as an antiperspirant active ingredient.
Is triethyl citrate the same as citric acid?
No. It is an ester made from citric acid and ethanol, not citric acid itself. The two ingredients have different chemical structures and formulation uses.