CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL
Commonly Found In
Overview
CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for FRAGRANCE. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Lime Oil, Lime Peel Oil, Key Lime Oil, Persian Lime Oil
Key Benefits
Cold-pressed lime peel oil contains phototoxic furanocoumarins (particularly bergapten) that may cause severe skin reactions upon UV exposure. Distilled lime oil has reduced furocoumarin content. No meaningful skin conditioning benefits are established.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Low comedogenic potential; primarily a fragrance oil used at trace concentrations.
Source: Industry comedogenicity data; IFRA Standards
Irritancy Rating
Moderate phototoxicity risk; lime peel oil expressed (cold-pressed) contains furanocoumarins (psoralens, bergapten) that are phototoxic under UV exposure. Steam-distilled versions and furanocoumarin-free grades are substantially safer.
Source: SCCS/1588/17; Naganuma et al. 1985; IFRA Standard for citrus oils
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.01β0.5% (where permitted)
Optimal
0.01β0.1%
Distilled oil preferred over cold-pressed for reduced phototoxicity where use is permitted.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Avoid Combining
Use With Caution
Banned in EU and UK (Annex II/358). Contains bergapten, a potent photosensitizer. Even where permitted, avoid use in leave-on products applied before sun exposure.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (II/358) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU and UK ban both expressed and distilled lime peel oil under Annex II/358 due to phototoxic furocoumarin content. The US and Japan permit use with formulation considerations, relying on industry guidelines on bergapten limits.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU, UK but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 122 ingredients in the FRAGRANCE category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Cold-pressed or steam-distilled from the peel of Citrus aurantifolia (lime). Native to Southeast Asia, now grown in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
π How It's Made
Cold-pressed (expressed) lime oil from fresh peels contains high levels of phototoxic bergapten (5-methoxypsoralen). Distilled lime oil has significantly reduced furocoumarin content and lower phototoxicity.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Banned in EU/UK (Annex II/358) alongside lemon oil due to severe sun-sensitivity reactions risk. Contains bergapten, one of the most potent sun-sensitivity light-sensitive compounds. Allowed in US and Japan with formulation restrictions. Rarely used in modern cosmetics due to safety concerns.
π¬ Other Applications
Food and beverage flavoring (especially in soft drinks and cocktails), aromatherapy, household cleaning products.
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database β Annex II/358
- β’ IFRA Standards on phototoxic citrus oils
- β’ SCCS opinion on phototoxic ingredients
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
ACETALDEHYDE
CITRUS LIMON PEEL OIL
CITRUS PARADISI PEEL OIL
DIBUTYL PHTHALATE
DIETHYLHEXYL PHTHALATE
LAURUS NOBILIS OIL
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL under II/358 due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL (II/358) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL used for in cosmetics?
CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL is primarily used for fragrance in cosmetic products. The ingredient is commonly found in perfumes, colognes, and scented cosmetics.
Which countries regulate CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL?
CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL is banned in EU, UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL?
Due to regulatory restrictions on CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For fragrance, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.