Defatted Citrus Unshiu Fruit: 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 27, 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 Defatted Citrus Unshiu Fruit?

Defatted Citrus Unshiu Fruit comes from the satsuma mandarin, a small seedless orange widely grown in Japan, Korea and parts of China. After the ripe fruit is harvested the juice and oil are removed, leaving behind the dry pulp. This pulp is then gently dried and pressed to take out almost all remaining oils, a step called defatting. The result is a fine powder rich in natural sugars, mild acids, vitamin C and plant compounds like flavonoids that give the fruit its antioxidant touch. Traditional East Asian medicine has long valued Citrus unshiu peels for soothing skin, so formulators began exploring the defatted version in the early 2000s as a cleaner, less oily way to capture those benefits. Today you can spot Defatted Citrus Unshiu Fruit in sheet masks, brightening creams, lightweight moisturizers, anti aging serums and after sun gels where it adds a silky feel and gentle protective boost.

Defatted Citrus Unshiu Fruit’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient steps into a formula to pamper skin and build a light shield against everyday stress.

  • Skin Conditioning: The natural sugars and acids help the surface of the skin hold water so it feels softer and looks smoother. Its fine texture also gives products a pleasant slip which makes application easier
  • Skin Protecting: The flavonoids and vitamin C offer mild antioxidant support, helping to fend off damage from pollution and sun exposure that can lead to dullness or early signs of aging

Who Can Use Defatted Citrus Unshiu Fruit

Thanks to its gentle nature Defatted Citrus Unshiu Fruit can slot into routines for dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Its light, oil reduced profile means it hydrates without heaviness so those prone to shine usually tolerate it well. Sensitive skin generally gets along with it too, though people with known citrus allergies or extremely reactive complexions should proceed cautiously because trace botanical residues could still trigger redness or itching.

The ingredient is 100% plant sourced with no animal derived additives so it suits both vegans and vegetarians.

No specific warnings exist for pregnancy or breastfeeding, and the powder is not absorbed in meaningful amounts through intact skin. Still, this is not medical advice. Anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a qualified healthcare professional before adding new skincare products just to be safe.

Because the fruit has been defatted most of the phototoxic compounds normally found in citrus oils are removed, making photosensitivity highly unlikely. Standard daytime sun protection practices are still recommended with any routine.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Defatted Citrus Unshiu Fruit differ from person to person. The points below outline potential but uncommon issues. When the ingredient is formulated and used correctly most people experience no problems.

  • Mild transient stinging or tingling, especially on freshly exfoliated skin
  • Redness or irritation in individuals with citrus fruit allergies
  • Dry patches if used in a formula that lacks adequate emollients
  • Very rare photosensitive reaction in people extremely reactive to citrus compounds
  • Contact dermatitis when paired with high concentrations of other actives like strong acids or retinoids

If any discomfort or unusual reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5

With virtually all oils removed this fruit powder is made up of water soluble sugars vitamins and flavonoids that do not block pores. Its lightweight particles rinse cleanly giving it a non comedogenic score.

That means Defatted Citrus Unshiu Fruit is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.

The overall formula still matters so if the powder is blended with heavy waxes or rich butters the finished product may behave differently on the skin.

Summary

Defatted Citrus Unshiu Fruit conditions by drawing and holding moisture at the surface and protects with mild antioxidant flavonoids and vitamin C. Because the oils are stripped away it delivers these perks without adding grease making it friendly to almost every skin type.

The ingredient is not a household name yet but its clean lightweight profile is winning it spots in more masks creams and after sun gels each year.

Most users enjoy a smooth trouble free experience still it is smart to patch test any new product that contains it just to be safe.

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