Overview

Citric acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). Alpha hydroxy acids are natural acids found in foods. Citric acid comes from citrus fruits.

Alpha hydroxy acids like citric acid work by removing the top layers of dead skin cells, potentially improving the appearance of aging skin.

People use citric acid for acne, aging skin, dry mouth, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse citric acid with other alpha hydroxy acids, including lactic acid, glycolic acid, malic acid, and tartaric acid. These are not the same.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

We currently have no information for CITRIC ACID overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Citric acid is commonly consumed in foods. There isn't enough reliable information to know if citric acid is safe to use as medicine or what the side effects might be. Consuming large quantities of citric acid is likely unsafe.

When applied to the skin: Citric acid is possibly safe when used in products also containing glycolic acid and lactic acid in concentrations of 10% or less. But it is possibly unsafe when used inappropriately. Using products inappropriately or in higher concentrations can cause skin burns. Higher concentrations should only be used while under the care of a dermatologist.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Citric acid is commonly consumed in foods. There isn't enough reliable information to know if citric acid is safe to use as medicine or what the side effects might be. Consuming large quantities of citric acid is likely unsafe.

When applied to the skin: Citric acid is possibly safe when used in products also containing glycolic acid and lactic acid in concentrations of 10% or less. But it is possibly unsafe when used inappropriately. Using products inappropriately or in higher concentrations can cause skin burns. Higher concentrations should only be used while under the care of a dermatologist.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Citric acid is commonly consumed in foods. But there isn't enough reliable information to know if citric acid is safe to use as medicine while pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and stick to food amounts.

Damaged skin: Avoid applying citric acid to broken skin. It can be painful.

Sensitive skin: Citric acid can cause skin irritation and make certain skin conditions worse. Use cautiously in people with sensitive skin.

Interactions ?

We currently have no information for CITRIC ACID overview.

Dosing

Citric acid is found in foods and is used in various cosmetic products. There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose might be, and products aren't always labeled appropriately. Speak with a healthcare provider before use.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.