Lemon Peel Oil
Essential oil from lemon peel with furanocoumarins in the composition. Delivers a fresh citrus scent but raises UV sensitivity – risk of phototoxic burns and pigmentation.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Phototoxicity of bergapten and other furanocoumarins is well documented. IFRA caps concentration in leave-on products at 2%, sensitive skin better avoids it entirely.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Medium
- Allergen risk
- High
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Oily, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive, Dry
About this ingredient
Lemon Peel Oil (Citrus Limon Peel Oil) is an essential oil from lemon peel (Citrus limon) obtained by cold pressing. Contains limonene (60–80%), β-pinene, γ-terpinene and phototoxic furanocoumarins – bergapten, bergamottin, oxypeucedanin. Mechanism. Limonene has antioxidant effect in vitro, but upon air oxidation converts to strong contact allergens – limonene-1-, 2-hydroperoxides. Furanocoumarins bind keratinocyte DNA and under UV exposure form covalent crosslinks, triggering phototoxic burn. Where applied. Perfumery, hair balms, spa cosmetics, aromatherapy. In therapeutic dermatology cosmetics serious brands avoid it. Evidence base. Clinical cases of berloque dermatitis described – phototoxic hyperpigmentation after citrus oil contact and sun (Wang 2002). EU SCCS added furanocoumarins to restriction list: concentration in leave-on products no higher than 1 ppm. Safety. Limonene is among the 26 mandatory EU allergens. In patients with sensitive skin and atopic dermatitis – contraindicated. Combined with UV – pigmentation and burn risk. Pregnancy – avoid. Furanocoumarins cross the placenta into systemic circulation with significant topical contact. In nursing mothers – do not apply on breast and hands contacting the child. Alternatives if citrus scent is desired – furanocoumarin-free (FCF) citrus extracts, synthetic fragrances.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lemon Peel Oil safe during pregnancy?
Lemon Peel Oil should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Lemon Peel Oil for?
Lemon Peel Oil suits: normal, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Can Lemon Peel Oil irritate the skin?
Lemon Peel Oil has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Can Lemon Peel Oil cause an allergic reaction?
Lemon Peel Oil has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
What is Lemon Peel Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
Essential oil from lemon peel with furanocoumarins in the composition.
What's the INCI name for Lemon Peel Oil?
The INCI name is Citrus Limon Peel Oil. It may also appear as: Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Lemon Peel Oil.
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