Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Powder: 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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All information on this page is verified using The Personal Care Products Council's (PCPC) INCI database. Our ingredient analyses are based exclusively on PCPC's technical data to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Powder?

Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Powder is simply finely ground orange peel. After oranges are juiced the remaining peels are washed, dried then milled into a light, aromatic powder. The peel naturally contains cellulose fibers, pectin, trace essential oils such as limonene, flavonoids like hesperidin and small amounts of vitamins. Long before modern beauty labs people used dried orange peel in homemade cleansers for its fresh scent and gentle polishing feel. As industrial milling improved formulators began adding the powder to commercial masks and powders for its ability to soak up excess oil and lend a silky slip. Today you will spot it in clay or cream masks, mattifying or setting powders, facial scrubs, dry shampoos, deodorant sticks and even some lightweight moisturizers where a shine-free finish is desired.

Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Powder’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Its main role in skin and hair care comes from its absorbent nature. The powder draws in sebum, sweat and surface impurities helping formulas control shine, extend wear time and leave a soft matte feel. In masks it boosts purification, in dry shampoos it refreshes roots without water and in scrubs its mild texture offers gentle exfoliation while it lifts away oil.

Who Can Use Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Powder

The powder is generally well suited to normal, combination and oily skin thanks to its oil absorbing ability. People with very dry or easily irritated skin may find it too mattifying if used in high amounts because it can pull away needed surface lipids, so they should look for formulas where it is paired with nourishing ingredients.

Because it comes from nothing more than ground orange peel and involves no animal derivatives or processing aids, the ingredient is fully compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

No studies show that topical use poses a risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The particles stay on the surface of skin and are not expected to reach the bloodstream, yet this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm product choices with a healthcare professional to be safe.

Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Powder itself is not known to cause photosensitivity. It contains only trace volatile oils, far below levels that can trigger sun reactions in leave-on products.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Powder differ from person to person. The points below list potential but uncommon effects; most users will not notice any problems when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild irritation some individuals may experience stinging or redness, especially if skin is already compromised
  • Excess dryness overuse can strip natural oils leading to a tight or flaky feel
  • Allergic contact dermatitis rare sensitivity to citrus proteins or limonene can cause itching or rash
  • Sensitization over time oxidized limonene in poorly stored products may gradually provoke reactivity in very sensitive users
  • Eye discomfort loose powder that drifts into the eyes can cause watering or a gritty sensation

If any undesirable reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 / 5

Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Powder is made of fibrous plant material with virtually no occlusive oils so it sits lightly on the surface and allows pores to breathe. The particles are too large to sink into follicular openings yet they can absorb oil that would otherwise mix with dead skin and form plugs. For these reasons it earns a very low score of 1.

Suitable for acne-prone skin, especially in rinse-off masks or dry shampoos where contact time is short.

As with any powder, pressing or rubbing it aggressively against skin could contribute to mechanical blockage so use a gentle touch.

Summary

Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Powder serves mainly as an absorbent that soaks up excess sebum, sweat and odor while adding a soft matte feel. Its mild grit also offers a touch of exfoliation and it helps improve the flow and feel of loose or pressed powders.

Although it is not a headline ingredient like vitamin C or retinol, formulators appreciate it for its clean label appeal and fresh citrus aroma so you will find it in a steady stream of clay masks, dry shampoos, mineral setting powders and natural deodorants.

Overall safety is high. It is plant derived, non toxic and rarely irritating. Still, everyone’s skin is different so perform a quick patch test when trying any new product that contains it to ensure personal compatibility.

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