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Moumoujus

CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA LEAF OIL.

Optional CAS 90063-52-8 / FRAGRANCE

Derived from the leaves of the key lime, Citrus Aurantifolia Leaf Oil is an essential oil recognized for its multi-functional properties. It demonstrates significant antioxidant capacity and holds promise for anti-aging applications by inhibiting key enzymes responsible for skin degradation, alongside exhibiting antimicrobial benefits.

Summary

cleansing hair conditioning masking perfuming skin conditioning tonic

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates through several mechanisms, primarily due to its monoterpene content, including limonene. It functions as an antioxidant by scavenging free radicals, protecting keratinocytes from UVB-induced photoaging and preserving skin barrier function. Its anti-aging efficacy is attributed to the *in vitro* inhibition of elastase and collagenase, enzymes critical in the breakdown of collagen and elastin. Furthermore, its antimicrobial action involves disrupting bacterial cell walls and membranes, inhibiting ATPase activity, and interfering with bacterial metabolic processes, thereby providing antiseptic properties.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 In vitro inhibition of elastase enzyme for anti-aging activity observed at an IC50 of 145.02 µg/mL.
  2. 02 In vitro inhibition of collagenase enzyme for anti-aging activity observed at an IC50 of 63.97 µg/mL.
  3. 03 In vitro antioxidant activity measured at 37.76 µM TE/g.
  4. 04 In-vitro antioxidant activity (DPPH free radical scavenging) demonstrated an IC50 of 21.57 µg/mL.
  5. 05 Comparable in-vitro antioxidant activity (27.9–87.54%) to ascorbic acid observed within concentrations of 5–50 µg/mL.
  6. 06 In-vitro antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacterial isolates (lime peel oil) with MIC ranging from 0.195%-3.125% v/v.
  7. 07 In-vitro antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacterial isolates (lime peel oil) with MIC ranging from 0.39%-3.125% v/v.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Non-distilled varieties of Citrus Aurantifolia Leaf Oil are phototoxic, increasing skin sensitivity to sunlight and potentially causing sunburn or damage. Distilled lime oil is an exception and does not exhibit this phototoxicity.

Conflicts

  • Sunlight exposure (for non-distilled oil)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
unspecified for non-irritating/non-sensitizing formulation%
Sensitization risk High

The CIR Expert Panel deems Citrus Aurantifolia Leaf Oil safe for cosmetic use when formulated to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing. However, it is recognized by the European Union and reported by the SCCS as an established human contact allergen. Non-distilled forms can cause photosensitization, necessitating sun avoidance post-application. Patch testing is highly recommended for individuals with sensitive skin or known allergen sensitivities. It holds a GRAS status by the U.S. FDA as a food additive.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Optional

Citrus Aurantifolia Leaf Oil offers valuable anti-aging, antioxidant, and antimicrobial benefits; however, its potential for photosensitization (if non-distilled) and established contact allergen status necessitate careful formulation and usage considerations.

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References

Sources