Photographed by MYESHA EVON GARDNER If I looked through your skincare products right now I would probably find at least one of these: salicylic acid, glycolic acid or lactic acid. Brands like The Ordinary, Paula’s Choice and Drunk Elephant have made exfoliating acids common in many routines. I can’t pick a favorite because I like all three. These acids unclog pores fade dark spots and brighten dull skin. Their benefits are proven but there’s another acid that deserves attention. If you have sensitive skin it might replace what you’re currently using. Abbas says that citric acid can exfoliate the skin when used in high enough concentrations. It helps old or dead skin cells shed so fresh new cells appear & dull skin looks better. It can also unclog pores and prevent new breakouts but it does this with much less irritation. Abbas explains that citric acid is gentler than other alpha hydroxy acids. This happens because its larger molecules don’t absorb into the skin as easily as the much smaller molecules of glycolic acid. Abbas says this makes it better tolerated as an exfoliating agent by sensitive skin.
Benefits of Citric Acid for Skin
Abbas explains that citric acid does more than just gently exfoliate the skin. It works as an antioxidant that shields your skin from environmental damage caused by smoke & pollution. These pollutants often make skin look dull or congested. Citric acid also makes other antioxidants work better. When you combine it with vitamin C it helps brighten your skin even though it doesn’t directly lighten it on its own. This is why many vitamin C serums and moisturizers include citric acid in their formulas.
Incorporating Citric Acid Into Your Skincare
Citric acid offers many benefits and shows up in various skincare products with a focus on exfoliators. It usually works alongside other exfoliating acids such as glycolic or lactic acid. These acids brighten skin and unclog pores while reducing hyperpigmentation. Citric acid plays a supporting role in exfoliating cleansers and toners as well as leave-on exfoliators and serums. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toner is a favorite product that many beauty editors use in their skin & hair & body routines. Glycolic acid is the main ingredient but citric acid also helps smooth rough texture & boost radiance while exfoliating skin. This toner works well on a flaky scalp or rough feet just as it does on your face. If leave-on toners irritate your skin then a wash-off cleanser might be better. Abbas recommends Skin Better Science Refining Foam Cleanser which combines citric acid with gentle AHA lactic acid and BHA salicylic acid. The salicylic acid goes deeper into pores to break up the mixture of oil and dead skin cells that causes breakouts. The Inkey List’s Salicylic Acid Cleanser is a more affordable option that also contains salicylic and citric acids.
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