Triethyl Citrate

Triethyl citrate is a cosmetically active ingredient that prevents the formation of unpleasant body odour. It is an ester of ethanol and citric acid. It influences the enzymatic activity of bacteria on the skin. Bacteria break down triethyl citrate into citric acid, which lowers the pH. As a result, the activity and growth of bacteria is reduced, thereby inhibiting the breakdown of fatty components in sweat and the formation of unpleasant odour. It also works against acne.

It is used in the manufacture of deodorants, foot care products, and body creams (anti-acne care).

APPEARANCE: clear liquid with a faint lemon scent

DOSAGE: 1 to 5 % (significantly higher concentrations are used in acne care products)

SOLUBILITY: oil phase (not sensitive to heating)

Permitted in certified cosmetic products!

Natural roll-on deodorant with triethyl citrate (100 ml)

(gentle, effective, suitable for everyday use)

Ingredients (100 ml)

• Sage or witch hazel hydrolat – 82.5 g

• Glycerin (vegetable) – 4 g

• Triethyl citrate – 5 g (5 %)

• Decalact Deo – 0.5 g (0.5 %)

• Xanthan gum – 0.3–0.4 g

• Solubiliser (e.g. Natisol or Polysorbate 20) – 1–1.5 g

• Lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia) – 5 drops

• Palmarosa essential oil – 4 drops

• Preservative – as per manufacturer's instructions

• If needed: lactic or citric acid for pH adjustment

Manufacturing process

1. Preparing the gel base
   In a clean container, mix xanthan gum and glycerin. While gently stirring, gradually add the hydrolat to form a smooth, light gel without lumps. Leave for a few minutes to fully hydrate.

2. Adding active ingredients
   Add triethyl citrate and Decalact Deo to the gel base and mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Preparing the essential oils
   In a separate small container, mix the essential oils with the solubiliser. Stir until a homogeneous mixture is formed.

4. Combining the phases
   Stir the essential oil and solubiliser mixture into the base. Mix slowly to prevent the formation of air bubbles.

5. Preservation and pH
   Add the chosen preservative. Check the pH of the product (recommended pH: 4.5–5.5). If necessary, adjust the pH with a few drops of lactic or citric acid.

6. Filling
   Pour the finished product into a clean roll-on container, close, and shake gently.

Use

Apply to clean and dry underarm skin. The product is suitable for everyday use.

Product benefits

• free from baking soda

• gentle on skin, also suitable after shaving

• does not inhibit perspiration, but prevents odour formation

• suitable for women and men