Citric acid is a product stabiliser, pH adjuster, and preservative with a low sensitising effect.

Citric acid is also a product stabiliser, pH adjuster, and preservative with a low sensitising effect. However, AHAs such as glycolic acid and lactic acid have been more well-researched. Furthermore, lactic and glycolic acid have been found to be more effective and less likely to induce a stinging reaction on the skin. It is not normally irritating to normal skin, but when introduced to chapped, broken, or otherwise inflamed skin, it can cause burning and redness.