Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Flower Cera: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 24, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Flower Cera?

Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Flower Cera is a plant-based wax that comes from the blossoms of the sweet orange tree. The creamy solid is rich in natural waxy esters, a small amount of fatty acids and trace fragrant compounds that give orange flowers their gentle scent. Orange flowers have long been valued in perfume making and were later explored for skin care when formulators noticed the smooth texture the wax leaves on the skin.

The wax is created by collecting fresh orange blossoms, then using a gentle solvent or super-critical CO2 to pull out the aromatic compounds. The first material, called a concrete, is cooled so the fragrant oils stay liquid while the heavier wax solidifies. The waxy part is separated, filtered and refined until it meets cosmetic standards.

Because it is firm yet melts on contact with skin, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Flower Cera shows up in a range of products: lip balms, solid perfumes, face creams, lotions, anti aging formulas, hair styling balms, cleansing balms and wash-off masks. It helps these products keep their shape in the jar yet spread easily when applied.

Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Flower Cera’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

The main role of this ingredient is skin conditioning, which brings several practical perks to a formula.

As a skin-conditioning agent it forms a light, breathable film that locks in moisture so skin feels softer and smoother. The wax adds slip and a pleasant cushion during application, which can make a product feel more luxurious. It also helps thicken emulsions and stabilize them, so creams stay blended and do not separate while sitting on your shelf.

Who Can Use Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Flower Cera

This wax suits most skin types, including normal, dry and combination, because it seals in moisture without feeling overly greasy. Very oily or acne prone skin may find thick waxes feel too heavy, though the risk is low thanks to its light melt point.

Because it is entirely plant derived and no animals are involved in its production, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Flower Cera is considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. It is often used as a botanical alternative to beeswax in formulas that aim for a vegan label.

Current research shows no ingredient specific warnings for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run all skincare choices past a healthcare professional to be on the safe side.

The wax does not contain the light sensitive compounds found in some citrus essential oils so it is not known to cause photosensitivity. It is also free of added dyes or preservatives that often trigger irritation, making it a gentle option for sensitive skin.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Flower Cera vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated in a finished product.

  • Mild contact irritation – rare stinging or redness can occur in individuals sensitive to natural fragrance molecules present in the wax
  • Allergic contact dermatitis – very uncommon rash or itching in those with a specific allergy to citrus flower components
  • Congested pores – if applied in thick layers on very oily or acne prone skin the occlusive film might contribute to clogged pores
  • Fragrance related headaches – the soft orange blossom scent could bother users who are highly scent sensitive

If any discomfort, rash or other negative reaction develops, stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 2 out of 5

Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Flower Cera is a lightweight plant wax that forms a breathable film rather than a heavy, greasy layer. Its ester profile is similar to beeswax, which also scores around 2, meaning it has a low but present chance of clogging pores, especially if applied in thick or occlusive formulas.

Suitable for acne-prone skin? Generally yes, though very oily or congestion-prone users may prefer lighter textures or use it sparingly.

Formulation style matters: when blended into well-balanced lotions or serums the wax is less likely to build up, whereas dense balms or layered applications can raise the risk of pore blockage.

Summary

Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Flower Cera conditions skin by melting at body temperature to form a thin, moisture-trapping veil that leaves the surface smooth and soft. It also boosts product feel by adding slip and helps stabilize emulsions so creams keep a uniform texture on your shelf.

While not yet a mainstream staple, this orange blossom wax is gaining attention as a botanical stand-in for beeswax in vegan and clean beauty lines, showing up in lip balms, solid perfumes and luxe face creams.

The ingredient is considered safe for most users with a very low irritation record and minimal comedogenic risk. As with any new skincare component it is wise to patch test a product before full use to rule out individual sensitivities.

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