What it is
Citrus Medica Limonum Peel Oil is the volatile essential oil expressed from lemon rind, dominated by limonene along with smaller amounts of other monoterpenes and citral. In formulations it contributes a bright citrus scent and can serve to mask the base odor of other raw materials. It is used at low levels and carries no claimed sun-protection or active skincare function.
Safety & warnings
Cold-pressed citrus peel oils contain limonene and citral, both recognized fragrance allergens that must be declared on EU labels above set thresholds, so the oil may provoke contact allergy or irritation in sensitized individuals. Limonene also oxidizes on air exposure, increasing its sensitizing potential over time. Expressed citrus peel oils can additionally contain furocoumarins associated with photosensitivity, so use levels are typically kept low.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; cold-pressed (expressed) from the peel of the lemon fruit, Citrus medica subsp. limonum.
Questions everyone asks
Why is lemon peel oil in a sunscreen?
It is included as a fragrance and scent-masking component, not for any sun-protection function.
Can lemon peel oil cause skin reactions?
It contains limonene and citral, known fragrance allergens, so sensitive or fragrance-allergic users may react to it.