Lemon extract

A vibrant natural ingredient used in skincare for brightening, antioxidant, and toning effects.
It’s especially popular in formulations targeting dull, oily, or uneven skin tone.

INCI Name: Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract

Extracted from the fruit, peel, and juice of lemons (Citrus limon).
It contains a mix of natural bioactives, including:

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) → antioxidant, brightening

Flavonoids (hesperidin, diosmin) → anti-inflammatory and protective

Alpha hydroxy acids (citric acid, malic acid) → gentle exfoliation

Essential oils (limonene, citral) → toning and refreshing aroma

Key Benefits

• Brightening: Promotes a more radiant complexion and evens out skin tone.
• Gentle exfoliation: Natural AHAs help remove dead skin cells, improving texture and clarity.
• Antioxidant: Fights free radicals and reduces signs of fatigue or dullness.
• Astringent / Sebum control: Helps minimize pores and control oil on the skin surface.
• Clarifying: Supports acne-prone and congested skin by keeping pores clear.

Properties:

• Solubility: Water-soluble
• Appearance: Clear to pale yellow liquid
• Recommended usage rate: 0.5 – 5%
• Phase: Add during the cool-down phase (<45 °C)
• pH stability: Stable between 4.0 – 6.0
• Compatible with: Niacinamide, Panthenol, Hyaluronic acid, Aloe Vera, Gluconolactone

Safety Notes

• Avoid raw lemon juice or unrefined essential oils in skincare — they can irritate and cause phototoxic reactions.
• Always use cosmetic-grade lemon extract, standardized and stabilized for skincare use.
• Maintain pH 4.5–6.0 to minimize irritation.

Applications

• Brightening toners
• Clarifying essences
• Oily/combination skin gels
• Vitamin C–type serums
• Exfoliating cleansers
• Scalp tonics and hair mists

Example: Lemon Brightening Toner

Ingredient

• Distilled Water 78.0%
• Lemon Extract 3.0%
• Niacinamide 3.0%
• Gluconolactone 5.0%
• Panthenol 1.0%
• Glycerin 3.0%
• Preservative 0.7%
• Fragrance (optional, low citrus note) 0.3%
• Adjust pH to 5.0–5.5

Procedure:

1. Mix all ingredients at room temperature until clear and uniform.

2. Adjust pH to 5.0–5.5.

3. Pour into a dark or frosted glass bottle (to protect actives from light).

Result:
A refreshing, brightening toner that gently exfoliates, reduces oiliness, and enhances glow — perfect for AM or PM use (with SPF if used in the morning).