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Moumoujus

MONOSODIUM CITRATE.

Valuable CAS 18996-35-5 / BUFFERING

Monosodium Citrate is a precise buffering salt derived from citric acid, integral for maintaining optimal pH stability in skincare formulations. It also functions as a chelating agent, meticulously binding with metal ions to safeguard ingredient integrity and enhance product preservation. This compound subtly supports the absorption of other active ingredients into the skin.

Summary

buffering chelating pH adjuster preservative masking skin-conditioning agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

Monosodium Citrate primarily operates as a buffering agent, meticulously controlling and stabilizing the pH levels of cosmetic formulations. Its chelating action involves binding to metal ions, effectively preventing the degradation of sensitive active ingredients and improving the sensory feel of the product. Furthermore, studies suggest it can enhance the percutaneous penetration of other beneficial ingredients into the skin. While its parent compound, citric acid, is an alpha hydroxy acid, Monosodium Citrate is specifically valued for its crucial buffering and chelating properties, rather than direct exfoliating effects.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Monosodium Citrate serves crucial functional roles in formulation stability and ingredient efficacy, making its inclusion typically justified rather than a superfluous 'dusted' ingredient. Its less hygroscopic nature compared to citric acid also makes it advantageous in dry blends, reducing the propensity for caking.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 6.2
0 7 14

Stability

Monosodium Citrate acts as a buffering agent, providing robust stability and precise control over pH levels in formulations, ideally within the 3.0 to 6.2 range. It is less hygroscopic than citric acid, which renders it less prone to caking and more suitable for dry blends and instant preparations. The ingredient demonstrates high thermal stability with a decomposition temperature exceeding 200°C and a very low water content, typically below 0.4%. A 1% solution of Monosodium Citrate buffers naturally at pH 3.50–3.80.

Synergies

  • Stabilizes pH-sensitive active ingredients, preserving their efficacy.
  • Enhances the penetration of other active ingredients into the skin.
  • Protects ingredients from degradation by chelating metal ions.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
10%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that citric acid, its salts (including Monosodium Citrate), and esters are safe for use in cosmetics at current concentrations and practices. Specifically, concentrations up to 10% in both rinse-off and leave-on products are deemed safe. Monosodium Citrate is also affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for direct food substances.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Monosodium Citrate is a valuable formulation aid, crucial for maintaining pH stability, preserving ingredient integrity through chelation, and enhancing the efficacy of other skincare components, all while presenting a low risk for irritation or comedogenicity across all skin types.

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