SHIKIMIC ACID ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is primarily used as a mild exfoliating acid, helping loosen surface cell buildup and refine texture. It can also support deodorant and clarifying formulas because acidic conditions make the environment less favorable for odor-associated microbes.
What does SHIKIMIC ACID do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is primarily used as a mild exfoliating acid, helping loosen surface cell buildup and refine texture. It can also support deodorant and clarifying formulas because acidic conditions make the environment less favorable for odor-associated microbes.
Is SHIKIMIC ACID clean?
From a clean-beauty perspective, this ingredient is generally well accepted and has no major restricted-list profile. As with other exfoliating acids, low-pH or higher-strength formulas can cause stinging or sensitivity for some users.
Is SHIKIMIC ACID sustainable?
This material can be sourced from plants or produced by fermentation from renewable sugars, which gives it a favorable sourcing profile when suppliers document origin. It is water-soluble and expected to biodegrade rather than persist in the environment.
Is SHIKIMIC ACID COSMOS-approved?
It is generally compatible with COSMOS-natural and COSMOS-organic standards when derived from approved natural or fermentation routes. Its fit with Green Chemistry is strong when made from renewable feedstocks using low-residue extraction or fermentation and when formulated in water-based systems.
How does SHIKIMIC ACID work chemically?
The molecule is a small, water-soluble organic acid with multiple hydroxyl groups and one carboxylic acid group, giving it both acid exfoliation behavior and good aqueous compatibility. It is typically used around 0.5% to 5% depending on the formula goal, and its activity is most relevant in acidic systems, with neutralization reducing free-acid performance.
Last updated 2026-05-13