With the rising popularity of clean beauty and natural skincare, using food-based ingredients directly on our skin has become a major trend. One citrusy contender gaining attention is lemon peel oil, prized by beauty gurus and natural skincare fans for its bright, zesty aroma, and skin-loving benefits.
But how exactly should you apply this tart oil for optimal results? Let’s peel back the layers and review the steps.
The Science Behind Lemon Peel Oil’s Potency
Lemon peel oil derives its potent properties from specific compounds naturally present within lemon peels.
These include:
- Vitamin C: Lemon peels happen to be one of the most concentrated natural sources of skin-brightening vitamin C. When applied topically, this vitamin C powerhouse supports skin by helping it neutralize free radicals, even out skin tone, and potentially increase collagen production.
- Antibacterial compounds: Lemon peel oil contains antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that have the potential to combat acne-causing bacteria that may be lingering on the skin’s surface.
- Astringent qualities: The oil exhibits an astringent effect, which is believed to help shrink the appearance of enlarged pores for a more toned, tightened complexion.
And of course, the potent antioxidant properties of lemon peel oil come from compounds like vitamin C, limonene, and flavonoids. These antioxidants help combat free radical damage, increase collagen production, brighten skin tone, and shrink the appearance of enlarged pores through their astringent effect. Lemon peel oil is one of the most concentrated natural sources of antioxidant vitamin C, making it a powerful addition to skincare routines.
Boosting Skin with Antioxidant-Rich Vitamin C
While most know vitamin C is integral for immune health, this potent nutrient also provides some powerful skin benefits.
As an antioxidant, vitamin C helps neutralize free radicals that arise on the skin from UV exposure and pollution to combat visible signs of premature aging. It also supports collagen production within the skin, which is key for combatting common aging signs like fine lines, wrinkles, sagginess, and loss of elasticity.
When applied topically, vitamin C also helps fade the appearance of hyperpigmentation and discoloration for a brighter, more even-toned complexion.
It’s clear vitamin C offers many skin-loving benefits to turn back the clock on aging, but how exactly do you apply it topically?
Best Practices: How to Apply Lemon Peel Oil on Skin
Want to try harnessing lemon peel oil for your own skincare routine? Follow these tips for safe and effective application:
- For starters, you should always dilute lemon peel oil with a carrier oil before applying it directly to your skin. You can even try pairings like lemon peel oil with coconut, jojoba, or aloe vera oil to help absorption.
- Test on a small patch of skin first to check for any allergic reactions or sensitivities before wider application.
- Start with lower concentrations like 1-2% lemon peel oil in your carrier oil, and gradually increase concentration as your skin adjusts.
- Use a pre-mixed product to get the right dilution every time. Just be sure to choose ingredients that are 100% USDA Certified Organic to ensure they don’t contain toxic additives.
- Avoid sun exposure after use, as lemon oil may increase photosensitivity. If you do need to go out after application, be diligent with applying a final layer of SPF.
- Be cautious when applying lemon peel oil near eyes, open wounds, or other sensitive areas which may experience irritation.
Get Your Antioxidant-Rich Glow On with Pur-Radiance
If you’re hooked on harnessing the power of lemon for your skincare routine, Purity Woods’ Pur-Radiance Cleanser may just become your new best friend.
This gentle daily cleanser is infused with antioxidant-rich green tea and brightening lemon peel oil to help you get your vitamin C glow on. As it lifts away impurities, it also works to even skin tone, minimize pores, and boost radiance for a complexion that beams.
The Pur-Radiance Cleanser is vegan, organic, and great for all skin types. Bring on the citrus-powered glow – learn more about adding the Pur-Radance Cleanser from Purity Woods into your skincare regimen here.