CITRUS NOBILIS PEEL EXTRACT
Commonly Found In
Overview
CITRUS NOBILIS PEEL EXTRACT is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for SKIN CONDITIONING. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Mandarin Orange Extract, Mandarin Peel Extract, Tangerine Peel Extract
Key Benefits
Studies suggest mandarin orange peel extract may provide antioxidant benefits through its flavonoid content (hesperidin, nobiletin). Its phototoxic risk is lower than lemon or lime extracts due to lower furocoumarin levels.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Low comedogenic potential; mandarin/tangerine extract used primarily as a fragrance and antioxidant source.
Source: Industry comedogenicity data
Irritancy Rating
Low irritancy; mandarin peel extracts typically contain lower furanocoumarin levels than lemon or lime, resulting in lower phototoxicity risk. Generally well-tolerated at cosmetic concentrations.
Source: IFRA Standard; published phototoxicity data for citrus oils
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.5β3% (where permitted)
Optimal
1β2%
Used for antioxidant and skin conditioning benefits where regulatory status allows.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Use With Caution
Banned in EU and UK under Annex II/358 (same regulation as other citrus oils), despite lower phototoxic risk than lemon/lime. Permitted in US and Japan.
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
The EU applies the Annex II/358 citrus oil ban broadly to include mandarin extracts, even though mandarin has lower furocoumarin levels than lemon or lime. The US and Japan do not have a blanket ban and assess each ingredient based on safety data.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU, UK but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 389 ingredients in the SKIN CONDITIONING category. 97% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Extracted from the peel of Citrus nobilis (mandarin orange, tangerine). Native to Southeast Asia, now cultivated worldwide in subtropical climates.
π How It's Made
Solvent extraction from mandarin orange peels yields extract rich in flavonoids (hesperidin, nobiletin), limonene, and phototoxic furocoumarins. Different from cold-pressed mandarin oil.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Banned in EU/UK (Annex II/358) under the broad citrus oil sun-sensitivity reactions regulation, though mandarin extracts have lower light-sensitive compounds levels than lemon or lime. Allowed in US and Japan. Historically used for vitamin C content, brightening claims, and pleasant citrus fragrance.
π¬ Other Applications
Food flavoring, traditional Chinese medicine (chenpi - dried mandarin peel), dietary supplements for flavonoid antioxidants.
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database β Annex II/358
- β’ FDA cosmetic ingredient database
- β’ Research on nobiletin and hesperidin skin benefits
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
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AMMI MAJUS EXTRACT
CANNABIDIOL - DERIVED FROM EXTRACT OR TINCTURE OR RESIN OF CANNABIS
CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED
CANNABIS SATIVA FLOWER/LEAF/STEM EXTRACT
CHOLINE CHLORIDE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is CITRUS NOBILIS PEEL EXTRACT banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning CITRUS NOBILIS PEEL EXTRACT 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 NOBILIS PEEL EXTRACT banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits CITRUS NOBILIS PEEL EXTRACT (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 NOBILIS PEEL EXTRACT used for in cosmetics?
CITRUS NOBILIS PEEL EXTRACT is primarily used for skin conditioning in cosmetic products. The ingredient is commonly found in moisturizers, lotions, and creams.
Which countries regulate CITRUS NOBILIS PEEL EXTRACT?
CITRUS NOBILIS PEEL EXTRACT is banned in EU, UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to CITRUS NOBILIS PEEL EXTRACT?
Due to regulatory restrictions on CITRUS NOBILIS PEEL EXTRACT, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For skin conditioning, 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.