Triethyl Citrate is a 100% natural ester of citric acid, produced by esterification of citric acid with ethanol. In cosmetics, it is used as an active ingredient in deodorants, a natural solvent for poorly soluble active substances, and as a fragrance fixative that prolongs their perception on the skin. Unlike traditional antimicrobial agents that destroy bacteria, it acts gently – it inhibits enzymes (esterases) in Corynebacteria, thereby preventing the formation of unpleasant odour while protecting the natural skin microbiome. You can read more about its use in deodorants and its properties in our blog article on natural deodorants.

Key benefits:

• 100% natural origin – suitable for natural and organic cosmetics.
• Deodorant effect without aluminium – effectively controls Corynebacteria and odour formation.
• Microbiome protection – does not kill bacteria, only inhibits their enzymatic activity.
• Solvent and fragrance fixative – extends the durability of perfume components.
• Multifunctional additive – can be used in various types of formulations (alcohol-based sprays, roll-ons, emulsions).

Suitable for products such as:

• Deodorants (roll-ons, sprays, aerosols).
• Natural deodorants without aluminium salts.
• Body and perfume sprays (as a fragrance fixative).
• Formulations where otherwise poorly soluble active substances need to be dissolved.

Use in formulation:

• Dosage: 1.0 – 5.0% as a deodorant active ingredient.
• Solubility: minimal in water, dispersible in oils, soluble in ethanol.
• Incorporation:
  • into the oil phase before homogenisation (for roll-on and emulsion formulations),
  • or directly into ethanol for alcohol-based deodorants and sprays.
• Stability: stable under normal processing conditions; avoid strongly alkaline environments (risk of hydrolysis).

Triethyl Citrate is a reliable multifunctional natural ester that offers high performance in deodorants, improves the stability and sensorial properties of cosmetic formulations, and enables the creation of products that are gentle on both the skin and the environment.

Product safety rating according to EWG: 1 (low risk)

FAQ

Is Triethyl Citrate safe for the skin?
Yes, it is a mild and well-tolerated ester that is not cytotoxic and protects the natural microbiome.

Why is it suitable for natural deodorants?
It is 100% natural, contains no aluminium, and effectively reduces odour by inhibiting enzymes rather than destroying bacteria.

Can I use it outside of deodorants as well?
Yes, it is often used as a solvent for active ingredients and as a fragrance fixative in perfumed products.

More detailed information on product quality can be found in the certificate of analysis, which we update with each new batch.

All supplied raw materials are of cosmetic grade, not suitable for internal use.

Use appropriate protective equipment when handling.