Limonene
What it does
Limonene is a naturally occurring compound found in citrus peel, used in skincare mainly to add a fresh scent and, sometimes, as a solvent. It is extremely common in scented products.
What to know
Limonene is one of the fragrance components the EU requires to be named on the label when it is present above certain thresholds, precisely because it is a recognized fragrance allergen. Most people use limonene-containing products with no problem, but it is a reasonable thing to watch for if your skin is fragrance-sensitive. Like some other fragrance molecules, it can oxidize as a product ages, which can increase its potential to cause a reaction.
Commonly found in
Scented cleansers, moisturizers, masks, and body care, and many products using natural citrus extracts or essential oils.
Frequently asked questions
Why is limonene listed separately on the label?
The EU requires certain fragrance allergens, including limonene, to be named individually when they are above set thresholds, so sensitive users can spot them.
Is limonene bad for skin?
For most people it is fine. It is a recognized fragrance allergen, though, so it is worth watching if your skin reacts to scented products.
Does limonene get more irritating over time?
It can. Like some other fragrance compounds, limonene can oxidize as a product ages, which may make it more likely to cause a reaction.
Evidence
Last updated: August 5, 2026