Hydrogenated Vegetable Glycerides Citrate

Concerns

Malassezia Feeding

What is Hydrogenated Vegetable Glycerides Citrate?

Hydrogenated Vegetable Glycerides Citrate is an ester formed by hydrogenating glycerides from vegetable oils and reacting them with citric acid, yielding a waxy, lipid-like substance. Sourced from natural plant fats, it belongs to the class of fatty acid esters commonly used in skincare emulsions, ointments, and anhydrous balms. In formulations, it functions as an emollient by depositing a thin film that mimics skin's natural oils, reducing roughness and enhancing slip. As an emulsifier and surfactant, it lowers interfacial tension between oil and water, enabling uniform blending and aiding gentle cleansing. It also supports skin conditioning by preserving moisture balance and contributes to stabilisation by preventing phase separation, ensuring product integrity over time.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Emollient

Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.

Surfactant

Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.

Emulsifying agent

Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Skin conditioning agent

Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Stabilising

Improves physical and/or chemical stability (e.g., preventing separation, precipitation, or degradation) to keep performance consistent over shelf life.

Benefits

Provides emollient effects to smooth and soften skin texture.

Acts as an emulsifying agent for stable cream and lotion textures.

Supports skin conditioning and formulation stability for consistent performance.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
Individuals with dry or rough skin seeking softening benefits.	People prone to Malassezia-related skin concerns.
Users of emulsion-based moisturizers and cleansers.	Individuals sensitive to lipid-rich emollients.
Those preferring plant-derived ingredients in daily routines.	Users avoiding potential fungal acne triggers.

Safety Notes

Considered low hazard with minimal reported risks in cosmetic use.
Non-comedogenic, unlikely to contribute to pore clogging.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hydrogenated Vegetable Glycerides Citrate

What is Hydrogenated Vegetable Glycerides Citrate made from?

It comes from hydrogenated glycerides of vegetable oils esterified with citric acid, creating a natural-origin cosmetic ingredient.

Is it safe for daily skincare use?

It carries a low safety rating and functions mildly as an emollient and emulsifier in various products.

Does it help with skin texture?

Yes, it softens and smooths skin by providing emollient action and improving product spreadability.