What it is
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil is the aromatic oil obtained from the peel of sweet oranges, dominated by limonene and other terpenes that give it a bright citrus scent. It is used chiefly to fragrance cosmetic products and can lend a light conditioning feel. In sunscreens it usually appears at low levels to provide a pleasant aroma.
Safety & warnings
A citrus peel oil that contains limonene and related fragrance constituents that are regulated allergens and can oxidize over time to become more sensitizing. Sweet orange oil is generally low in phototoxic furocoumarins compared with some other citrus oils, but as a fragrance material it should be used at controlled levels in leave-on products.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; an essential oil cold-pressed or expressed from the peel of sweet orange fruit, Citrus aurantium dulcis (Citrus sinensis).
Questions everyone asks
What gives orange oil its scent?
Its aroma comes largely from limonene and other terpenes naturally present in the orange peel.
Is it an allergen concern?
It contains fragrance constituents such as limonene that are regulated allergens and can sensitize, particularly once oxidized, so it is used at limited levels.