Ingredient
Triethyl Citrate
What is Triethyl Citrate?
Triethyl Citrate is an ester of citric acid and ethanol. It is typically synthetically produced by reacting citric acid with ethanol in the presence of a catalyst.
This ingredient is often used as a stabilizer or a solvent in fragrances and cosmetics due to its ability to blend with various components. In the food industry, it is sometimes used as a flavor carrier. Current research does not indicate significant health concerns at typical exposure levels.
When you see Triethyl Citrate on a label, it is generally there to enhance the performance of other ingredients, especially in fragrance formulations.
Commonly found in: Fragrances, Cosmetics, Food flavoring
Benefits
- Acts as an effective stabilizer in fragrance products.
- Non-toxic at levels used in consumer products.
Triethyl Citrate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its intended uses.
Research supports its safety when used as an additive in consumer products, with no significant health risks identified.
Triethyl Citrate is a synthetic compound that is vegan-friendly and not derived from animal products.
Sources: Food Additive Status List
Scout's take
Solvent / fixative replacement for DEP phthalate. Non-sensitizing, non-endocrine.
The case against
There are minimal risks, though it may cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
from the analysis of Crystal Magnesium Deodorant Stick Coconut & Vanilla · echoed in 1 other analysisThere are minimal risks associated with Triethyl Citrate.
from the analysis of hello bello Mineral SPF55+ Sunscreen Lotion with Prebiotics for Babies and KidsThe case for
It helps to control body odor by inhibiting the enzymatic breakdown of sweat.
from the analysis of Crystal Magnesium Deodorant Stick Coconut & VanillaIt provides a pleasant fragrance and stabilizes formulations.
from the analysis of hello bello Mineral SPF55+ Sunscreen Lotion with Prebiotics for Babies and KidsIt helps stabilize products and can enhance fragrance.
from the analysis of Papatui Paraben-Free Men's Ageless Action Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid Face Exfoliating Scrub - UnscentedImproves product stability and scent.
from the analysis of The Honest Company Face+Body Lotion-Lavender DreaMore from Scout's analyses
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
from the analysis of Aunt Fannie's All-Purpose Cleaning Wipes EucalyptusTriethyl Citrate is used as a fragrance ingredient and stabilizer in cosmetics. It helps to improve product stability and scent. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.
from the analysis of The Honest Company Face+Body Lotion-Lavender DreaBenign perfuming agent / alcohol denaturant. Generally safe for skin contact.
from the analysis of Dior Sauvage Eau de ToiletteFound in 12 products
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