What it is
Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil Expressed is the essential oil obtained by cold expression of the peel of the mandarin orange. It is a volatile mixture of terpenes and other aromatic compounds with a sweet, fresh citrus scent and is used almost entirely as a natural fragrance ingredient. It appears at low levels to perfume moisturizers and sun care.
Safety & warnings
Mandarin peel oil contains fragrance allergens such as limonene, which can cause allergic contact dermatitis in sensitized individuals. Like other expressed citrus peel oils, it may contain naturally occurring furocoumarins that can be phototoxic on sun-exposed skin, which is a particular consideration in a daytime product, though mandarin is generally lower in these than some other citrus oils. Use levels are kept low, and patch testing is reasonable for fragrance-sensitive skin.
Origin & sourcing
Natural, plant-derived. It is produced by cold expression of the peel of the mandarin orange (Citrus nobilis / Citrus reticulata).
Questions everyone asks
Why is mandarin peel oil added to sunscreen?
It is used as a natural fragrance to give the product a sweet, fresh citrus scent.
Is mandarin peel oil a concern in a daytime product?
Expressed citrus peel oils can contain phototoxic furocoumarins, so it is used at low levels and fragrance-sensitive users should be mindful.