Which organic acid is derived from citrus fruit and used for pH adjustment in hair products?

Citric acid is an organic acid that is naturally found in citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges. It is commonly used in various hair products for pH adjustment due to its ability to lower pH effectively. Maintaining the proper pH balance in hair products is crucial because it helps to ensure the cuticles of the hair remain smooth and closed, which can enhance shine and reduce frizz.

Additionally, citric acid is often included in formulations as a chelating agent, which helps bind metal ions that could otherwise interact negatively with the hair. This characteristic further underlines its importance in hair care.

The other acids listed, while also significant in various contexts, do not specifically originate from citrus fruits nor do they primarily serve the purpose of pH adjustment in hair products in the same way that citric acid does. Lactic acid is derived from milk and is mainly used for its moisturizing properties. Acetic acid, found in vinegar, is used as a preservative and flavoring in food rather than for hair. Salicylic acid is primarily known for its use in treating acne and is not related to hair product formulations in terms of pH adjustment.