What Is Triethyl Citrate? Non-Cosmetic Uses
Triethyl citrate is a clear, colorless liquid that is soluble in water. This ester of citric acid is often used as a food additive. It helps to stabilize foams, especially when whipping egg whites. You may not know this, but triethyl citrate is also used in the production of plastics. It acts as a plasticizer, which means it helps to keep plastics soft and flexible.
Yet another use is in e-cigarette juices as a pseudo-emulsifier. It works like lecithin does in food, but it can be vaporized in addition to improving the texture of the liquid. Now that we know what triethyl citrate is and some of its non-cosmetic uses, let’s move on to discussing its role in the beauty industry.
In Deodorants and Antiperspirants: Removing Body Odor
Have you ever wondered why your deodorant or antiperspirant contains triethyl citrate? This compound helps to reduce body odor by masking the smell of sweat. It does this by inhibiting the activity of bacteria that thrive in sweaty environments. Sweat only starts smelling when bacteria break it down, so by becoming their alternative source of food, triethyl citrate helps to keep you smelling fresh all day long.
This cosmetic ingredient is often used in roll-on deodorants and antiperspirants, as it has antibacterial properties that make it a viable alternative to aluminum salts. Triethyl citrate is not only effective at reducing body odor, but it’s also gentle on the skin, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
In Fragrances: Making Them Last Longer
Triethyl citrate is also used in perfumes and colognes. It’s a fixative, which means it helps to make the scent last longer. This is because triethyl citrate slows down the evaporation of fragrance molecules. This means that the scent will linger on your skin for hours after you’ve applied it.
The ingredient can also be used in scented candles. When used in this way, it helps to make the fragrance last longer and prevents the candle from smoking.
In Sunscreen: Dispersing Insoluble Organic UV Filters
This compound is often used as a dispersant in sunscreen. This means that it helps to distribute the insoluble organic UV filters evenly throughout the sunscreen. This ensures that the sunscreen is effective and prevents it from leaving a white cast on the skin.
In Lipsticks: To Prevent Crumbling
Triethyl citrate is also used in lipsticks. It helps to prevent the stick from crumbling and keeps it looking fresh. This ingredient also has the added benefit of making the lipstick more comfortable to wear, as it prevents it from drying out the lips. It’s a plasticizer, which means it helps to keep the lipstick soft and pliable.
Are There Any Safety Concerns About Triethyl Citrate?
Good news: triethyl citrate is considered to be a safe ingredient. It’s been used in the food industry for decades and is also approved for us in cosmetics by the FDA. That said, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test before using any new product, just to be sure you’re not allergic to it.
All in all, triethyl citrate is a versatile and safe ingredient that has a variety of uses, both in and out of the cosmetics industry. What’s not to love? We hope you found this article informative and that you now have a better understanding of this compound and its uses.
Do you have any other questions about triethyl citrate? Let us know in the comments below!
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