Tartaric Acid

Tartaric Acid is a cosmetic ingredient used as a buffering, fragrance agent. It is used in 287 products in our dataset. It is regulated in the EU (listed in a Cosmetics Regulation annex). PubMed carries 92 studies of its skin or topical use.

INCI nameTARTARIC ACID
FunctionBUFFERING, FRAGRANCE
CAS number133-37-9 / 147-71-7 / 87-69-4
EC number205-105-7 / 205-695-6 / 201-766-0
Prevalence287 products (0.31% of dataset)
Most used inSkincare
EU statusRestricted (annex )
Scientific studies92 on PubMed (skin/cosmetic/topical)
Monthly searches9,900

Used in

Exfoliators 13.2%Serums 11.5%Conditioners 10.5%Toners 8.4%Eye Masks 6.6%Face Cleansers 6.6%

Frequently asked

What does Tartaric Acid do in skincare?
Tartaric Acid functions as a buffering, fragrance agent in cosmetic formulas.
Is Tartaric Acid allowed in cosmetics?
Yes, but it is regulated in the EU — it appears in a Cosmetics Regulation annex with usage conditions.
What products contain Tartaric Acid?
It is most commonly found in Skincare products, especially exfoliators (13.2% of its uses).

Manufacturers with experience using Tartaric Acid

Match with vetted US contract manufacturers that have hands-on experience formulating with this ingredient.