triethyl citrate
Also known as: Triethyl citrate, E1505, Ethyl citrate, Triethyl Citrate
Overview
Triethyl citrate is a colorless and odorless liquid ester derived from citric acid and ethanol. It is widely utilized in the cosmetic, personal care, and food industries due to its versatile properties. In cosmetics, it functions as a plasticizer, deodorant, and stabilizer, enhancing product texture and longevity. As a deodorant, it inhibits the enzymatic decomposition of sweat components, effectively reducing body odor. In the food industry, it acts as a foam stabilizer and sequestrant. While not typically used as a direct dietary supplement, triethyl citrate is metabolized by the body and is considered safe for ingestion in small amounts, as evidenced by its approval as a food additive. Its mild, fruity taste and multifunctional properties make it a valuable ingredient in various applications.
Benefits
Triethyl citrate's primary benefit lies in its effectiveness as a deodorant. It inhibits enzymes responsible for sweat decomposition, thereby reducing body odor. Its antibacterial properties also contribute to odor control. As a plasticizer and stabilizer, it improves the sensory and performance characteristics of cosmetic products, enhancing moisturization and lubricity. In dermatological applications, triethyl citrate, when combined with agents like ethyl linoleate, has shown enhanced efficacy in treating acne and other skin conditions. A network meta-analysis indicated superior efficacy of this combination compared to other treatments, though further research is needed to confirm these findings due to study heterogeneity.
How it works
Triethyl citrate primarily works by inhibiting the enzymatic decomposition of sweat components, specifically targeting enzymes that produce malodorous compounds. This action reduces the formation of unpleasant body odors. Topically, it interacts with skin microbiota and sweat glands to achieve this effect. While specific enzymes targeted are not detailed in available literature, the overall mechanism involves disrupting the breakdown of sweat into odor-causing substances. When ingested, triethyl citrate is metabolized by the body, further contributing to its safety profile.
Side effects
Triethyl citrate is generally considered safe for use in both food and cosmetics, with no commonly reported side effects. It has been approved as a food additive (E1505) and is a widely accepted cosmetic ingredient. No significant adverse effects have been documented in the literature, and it is generally well-tolerated. There are no known drug interactions or contraindications associated with its use. Special population considerations are not necessary, as it is generally recognized as safe for a broad range of users. However, as with any topical or ingested substance, individual sensitivities may vary, and it is always advisable to perform a patch test or consult with a healthcare professional if concerns arise.
Dosage
There is no established minimum effective dose for triethyl citrate as a dietary supplement, as it is primarily used in topical applications and as a food additive. In deodorants and cosmetics, effective concentrations vary depending on the specific formulation. It is typically used in low percentages as a plasticizer or deodorant agent. A maximum safe dose is not explicitly defined, but safety assessments support its use within typical cosmetic and food additive concentrations. For topical applications, it should be applied as needed. Triethyl citrate is available in liquid form or incorporated into creams, deodorants, and food products. It is efficiently metabolized, with no known bioavailability issues.
FAQs
Is triethyl citrate safe for daily use?
Yes, triethyl citrate is widely used in cosmetics and food products and has a strong safety record, making it safe for daily use in these applications.
Does it work as a deodorant?
Yes, triethyl citrate effectively inhibits enzymes that cause sweat odor and possesses antibacterial properties, contributing to its deodorizing effect.
Can it be ingested as a supplement?
While approved as a food additive and metabolized by the body, triethyl citrate is not typically used as a dietary supplement.
Are there any side effects?
No significant side effects have been reported with the use of triethyl citrate in typical cosmetic and food applications.
Is it effective alone or only in combination?
Evidence suggests enhanced efficacy when combined with other agents, especially in dermatological applications, though it is effective alone as a deodorant.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12396673/ – A comprehensive safety evaluation of acetyl triethyl citrate and related esters concluded that these compounds are safe for use in cosmetics and food applications. The study reported no significant toxicity, supporting its widespread use and regulatory approval. This assessment confirms the safety profile of triethyl citrate in common applications.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.592075/full – A network meta-analysis evaluated triethyl citrate combined with ethyl linoleate in treatments for skin conditions, showing superior efficacy compared to other treatments. However, the study noted significant heterogeneity and moderate to high risk of bias in included trials. Further high-quality RCTs are needed to validate these findings.
- https://www.atamanchemicals.com/triethyl-citrate_u26879/ – This resource reviews the multifunctional role of triethyl citrate as a plasticizer, deodorant, and antioxidant in cosmetic and food products. It highlights its enzymatic inhibition of sweat decomposition and antibacterial effects, which underpin its deodorizing function. The review emphasizes the chemical properties that contribute to its diverse applications.
- https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/6506 – PubChem provides chemical and structural information about Triethyl Citrate. It includes identifiers, properties, and safety information.
- https://www.atamanchemicals.com/e1505-triethyl-citrate_u28446/ – This resource reviews the multifunctional role of triethyl citrate as a plasticizer, deodorant, and antioxidant in cosmetic and food products. It highlights its enzymatic inhibition of sweat decomposition and antibacterial effects, which underpin its deodorizing function. The review emphasizes the chemical properties that contribute to its diverse applications.
