INCI: Citrus Limon 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.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Phototoxicity of bergapten and other furanocoumarins is well documented. IFRA caps concentration in leave-on products at 2%, sensitive skin better avoids it entirely.
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.
Irritation potential
MediumAllergen risk
HighPregnancy
CautionSuitable for
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Lemon Peel Oil should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Lemon Peel Oil suits: normal, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Lemon Peel Oil has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Lemon Peel Oil has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
Essential oil from lemon peel with furanocoumarins in the composition.
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Use with caution
The INCI name is Citrus Limon Peel Oil. It may also appear as: Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Lemon Peel Oil, Масло лимонной кожуры.