What is Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate?
Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate, also known as 1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-acetyloxy-, trihexyl ester, is a versatile ingredient used in the cosmetic industry. It is derived from citric acid, a naturally occurring substance found in citrus fruits, and acetic acid. This compound is known for its antioxidant, chelating, plasticising, skin conditioning, and emollient properties.
The use of Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate in cosmetics dates back several decades. It was initially used as a plasticiser in the manufacturing industry due to its ability to increase the flexibility and durability of plastics. However, its beneficial properties were soon recognised by the cosmetic industry, leading to its widespread use in various skincare and beauty products.
Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate is synthesised through a process known as esterification. This involves the reaction of citric acid and acetic acid in the presence of a catalyst. The resulting compound is then purified and tested to ensure it meets the necessary quality standards for use in cosmetic products.
While there are other ingredients that share similar functions, such as other citrate esters, Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate stands out due to its unique combination of properties. It not only acts as an antioxidant, protecting the skin from harmful free radicals, but also as a chelating agent, binding to metal ions and preventing their adverse effects. Furthermore, its plasticising properties make it a valuable ingredient in nail polishes, while its skin conditioning and emollient properties contribute to its use in moisturisers and serums.
Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate is typically used in a wide range of cosmetic products. Its versatility and beneficial properties make it a popular choice for moisturisers, serums, nail polishes, and even hair care products. Its ability to improve the texture and feel of these products, while also providing skin conditioning benefits, makes it a valuable addition to many cosmetic formulations.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate:
Antioxidant
As an antioxidant, Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate plays a crucial role in protecting your skin from harmful free radicals. These free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to your skin cells, leading to premature aging and other skin issues. By neutralizing these free radicals, Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate helps to maintain the health and vitality of your skin.
Chelating
Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate also serves as a chelating agent. This means it has the ability to bind with metal ions, which can prevent them from causing harm to the skin. This is particularly useful in skincare products as it can help to prevent the degradation of the product, thereby enhancing its stability and effectiveness.
Plasticiser
As a plasticiser, Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate helps to improve the flexibility and pliability of cosmetic products. This makes the products easier to apply and spread evenly on the skin, enhancing their overall performance and user experience.
Skin Conditioning
Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate is a great skin conditioning agent. It helps to soften and smooth the skin, making it feel more comfortable and look more radiant. This ingredient is particularly beneficial for those with dry or rough skin, as it can provide the necessary hydration and nourishment to improve the skin’s texture and appearance.
Emollient
Lastly, as an emollient, Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate helps to lock in moisture and create a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. This not only keeps the skin hydrated but also protects it from environmental stressors, such as pollution and harsh weather conditions. This makes Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate a valuable ingredient in many moisturizers and lotions.
Please note that these benefits are exclusively based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate. There may be other benefits and uses that go beyond the scope of these official functions.
Safety Profile
Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for all skin types and there is always a potential for allergic reactions. It’s always recommended to do a patch test before using any new product.
Some potential side effects of topical application of Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical usage of Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Acetyl Trihexyl Citrate are not common, but they can occur. It’s always a good idea to do a patch test before using a product containing this ingredient on a larger area of skin.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant whose sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as well as other various publicly available sources.
