Ingredient review
Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate
INCI: TRI-C14-15 ALKYL CITRATE
A gentle, non-greasy emollient that helps skincare products spread smoothly and leaves skin feeling soft without clogging pores.
In plain English
Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate is a synthetic ingredient made from citric acid (found in citrus fruits) and a blend of fatty alcohols (derived from plant oils). In cosmetics, it acts as an emollient, meaning it helps soften and smooth the skin by forming a light, non-greasy film. It also improves the texture of creams and lotions, making them easier to apply and giving them a silky feel. Because it is not oil-based in the traditional sense, it is unlikely to clog pores, making it suitable for many skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic ester created by combining citric acid with a mixture of C14-15 fatty alcohols. It is a clear to slightly yellow liquid at room temperature and is used primarily for its emollient and texture-enhancing properties.
How it works
When applied to the skin, Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate spreads into a thin, even layer that reduces water loss from the skin's surface (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL). It does this by filling in the gaps between skin cells, helping to maintain hydration. Its molecular structure also helps other ingredients in a formula mix together more evenly, improving the overall feel and performance of the product.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Unlike heavier oils, Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate absorbs quickly and leaves no sticky residue, making it ideal for daytime moisturizers and sunscreens.
Low pore-clogging risk
It has a low comedogenic rating, so it is unlikely to cause breakouts even in acne-prone skin, unlike some natural oils.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
It is manufactured in a lab, which may be a drawback for consumers who prefer plant-derived or naturally sourced ingredients.
Less studied than common emollients
Compared to ingredients like glycerin or jojoba oil, there is less published research on its long-term skin effects, though current safety data is positive.
Best for
- People with oily or combination skin who want a lightweight moisturizer
- Anyone looking for a non-greasy sunscreen or makeup base
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients in their skincare routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and sensitization potential based on available safety assessments. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar alkyl citrates and found them safe for their intended use.
Research notes
While direct studies on Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate are limited, it belongs to a well-studied class of ester emollients. These ingredients are generally recognized as safe and effective for skin conditioning. No significant adverse effects have been reported in cosmetic use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. It is not classified as a hazardous substance under normal use conditions.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Lip products, Makeup foundations
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic ester, its biodegradability depends on the specific manufacturing process. It is not known to be a significant environmental concern at typical cosmetic usage levels.
Good to know
- Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate is often used in 'silky' or 'velvet' texture claims on product labels.
- It is considered a 'dry' emollient, meaning it adds softness without oiliness.
Common questions
What is Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate in beauty products?
Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate is a synthetic ingredient made from citric acid (found in citrus fruits) and a blend of fatty alcohols (derived from plant oils). In cosmetics, it acts as an emollient, meaning it helps soften and smooth the skin by forming a light, non-greasy film. It also improves the texture of creams and lotions, making them easier to apply and giving them a silky feel. Because it is not oil-based in the traditional sense, it is unlikely to clog pores, making it suitable for many skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
What does Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate spreads into a thin, even layer that reduces water loss from the skin's surface (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL). It does this by filling in the gaps between skin cells, helping to maintain hydration. Its molecular structure also helps other ingredients in a formula mix together more evenly, improving the overall feel and performance of the product.
Is Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate safe for most people?
Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and sensitization potential based on available safety assessments. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar alkyl citrates and found them safe for their intended use.
Who should be careful with Tri-C14-15 Alkyl Citrate?
Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients in their skincare routine
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.