Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Fruit Extract is a natural ingredient derived from the lime fruit, known for its refreshing, toning, and purifying properties. It is used in cosmetics and skincare products due to its high concentration of vitamin C, antioxidants, and organic acids, which help brighten the skin, improve tone, and protect against free radicals. It is commonly found in skincare products, lotions, face masks, and cleansers.
Chemical Composition and Structure
Lime fruit extract is rich in bioactive compounds, including citric acid, flavonoids like hesperidin, and vitamin C (ascorbic acid). These components provide potent antioxidant, exfoliating, and skin-brightening effects. The organic acids, particularly citric acid, help remove dead skin cells and promote cellular renewal, while the flavonoids protect the skin from oxidative stress.
Physical Properties
Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Fruit Extract can appear as a liquid or powder depending on the extraction method and concentration. It has a characteristic citrus scent and is soluble in water and glycerin, making it easily incorporated into various cosmetic formulations. Its color ranges from light yellow to green.
Production Process
Lime fruit extract is obtained through an extraction process from fresh fruit, which may include cold extraction or solvent extraction. These methods help preserve the integrity of active compounds, particularly vitamins and antioxidants.
Harvesting the Fruits: Citrus aurantifolia fruits are harvested from mature plants. Harvesting can be done manually or with the aid of mechanical equipment, depending on agricultural practices.
Preparation and Washing: The harvested fruits are washed to remove dirt, pesticides, and surface impurities. After washing, the fruits are dried.
Extraction: The extraction of active principles occurs using appropriate solvents, such as water or ethanol. The fruits undergo a maceration or percolation process, where the solvent is in contact with the plant material for a specific period, allowing the release of bioactive compounds.
Filtration: After the extraction process, the obtained solution is filtered to remove undissolved solids, resulting in a liquid extract containing the active principles of the lime.
Concentration: The extract may be further concentrated by evaporating the solvent to obtain a product richer in nutrients and with greater stability.
Quality Control and Packaging: Finally, Citrus aurantifolia fruit extract undergoes quality control checks to verify its purity, efficacy, and compliance with standards. After analysis, it is packaged for distribution and use in cosmetic and skincare products.
Applications
Skincare: Used in creams, lotions, and serums to brighten the skin tone, improve texture, and reduce the signs of aging due to its vitamin C and citric acid content.
Cleansers and Toners: Found in cleansing and toning products for its purifying and astringent properties. It helps reduce excess oil and minimize pores.
Anti-aging Products: Due to its richness in antioxidants, it is often included in anti-aging products to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and environmental factors.
INCI Functions:
Fragrance. It plays a very important role in the formulation of cosmetic products as it allows perfume to be enhanced, masked or added to the final product, improving its commercial viability. The consumer always expects to find a pleasant scent in a cosmetic product.
Surfactant - Cleansing agent. Cosmetic products used to cleanse the skin utilise the surface-active action that produces a lowering of the surface tension of the stratum corneum, facilitating the removal of dirt and impurities.
Skin conditioning agent - Miscellaneous. This ingredient has the task of modifying the condition of the skin when it is damaged or dry by reducing its flakiness and restoring its elasticity.
CAS: 90063-52-8 generic
Health and Safety Considerations
Safety in Use
Citrus Aurantifolia extract is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products when used at recommended concentrations. However, like many citrus extracts, it may increase skin sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitization). It is advisable to use sunscreen when using products containing lime extract during the day.
Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to this extract are rare but may occur in individuals sensitive to citrus fruits or essential citrus oils. It is recommended to patch test products on a small area of skin before use.
Toxicity and Carcinogenicity
It has been extensively evaluated and approved for cosmetic use by major regulatory authorities.
Environmental Considerations
Lime extract is a renewable and biodegradable resource, making it eco-friendly. It is sourced from sustainably grown citrus fruits and poses no significant environmental risks.
Regulatory Status
Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Fruit Extract is approved for use in cosmetics by major regulatory authorities, including the European Union and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States.
