What it is
This is a volatile essential oil cold-pressed or distilled from the peel of limes, rich in limonene and other terpenes that give a bright citrus scent. In cosmetics it is used in small amounts to fragrance a formula. It does not contribute UV protection and is present for scent rather than function.
Safety & warnings
Citrus peel oils naturally contain fragrance constituents such as limonene and linalool that can oxidize and act as allergens, so they may trigger reactions in fragrance-sensitive individuals. Expressed (cold-pressed) citrus peel oils can also contain furocoumarins that may cause photosensitivity, though many cosmetic-grade oils are processed to reduce these; sensitive users should patch test.
Origin & sourcing
Natural, plant-derived. It is obtained from the peel of lime fruit by cold pressing or distillation.
Questions everyone asks
Why is lime peel oil in sunscreen?
It is used in small amounts as a natural fragrance to give the product a citrus scent; it does not add sun protection.
Can citrus peel oils cause sensitivity?
Yes. They contain fragrance allergens like limonene, and cold-pressed versions may contain photosensitizing furocoumarins, so fragrance-sensitive users should be cautious.