Whether for the skin or hair, pink grapefruit extract offers numerous benefits due to its content of vitamin C and bioflavonoids (among other things). Discover our advice for using it effectively during your skincare routine.
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Pink Grapefruit Extract: How is it used?
Summary
- Let's start with a brief introduction of this natural aqueous extract
- Pink grapefruit extract, for which skin types?
- Pink grapefruit extract, how to use
- Pink Grapefruit Extract: In which skincare products can it be found?
- Pink Grapefruit Extract: What Concentration Should Be Maintained?
Published February 10, 2023,
updated on February 8, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
7 min read
Let's start with a brief introduction of this natural aqueous extract.
Pink grapefruit and pomelo are often confused. In fact, these two fruits belong to the genus Citrus, which includes the majority of citrus fruits. The grapefruit tree (Citrus maxima) produces enormous fruits, the grapefruits. However, this is not the one we consume in Europe. Indeed, it is the pomelo (Citrus paradisi) that is present in our supermarkets, whichis incorrectly referred to as grapefruit. The confusion around the name of these two fruits has been ongoing for a long time and a change in nomenclature is not being considered.
The grapefruit, the ancestor of the pomelo, is consumed in the West Indies and Tahiti. Originating from China, it is sometimes sold in France under the name of Chinese pomelo.The pomelo, commonly called grapefruit in France, is a fruit resulting from the natural crossbreeding between the grapefruit tree (Citrus maxima) and the sweet orange (Citrus sinensis). While the grapefruit comes from Southeast Asia, the pomelo is native to the Caribbean.
In dermo-cosmetics, thegrapefruit extract (which is actually pomelo extract) is a powerful purifying and sanitizing ally for the skin.Known by the I.N.C.I. name "Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract", this aqueous extract is obtained throughmicrowave extraction from whole fruits sourced from organic farming. No preservatives are added to the final product. The recommended percentage of this natural ingredient in a cosmetic formula is 3%.
Pink grapefruit extract, for which skin types?
The aqueous extract of pomelo is composed of the following molecules.
Alpha-hydroxy acids, AHA (primarily citric acid, tartric and malic): these actives are stimulators of cellular metabolism that provide regenerating, keratolytic, brightening, and hydrating benefits to the skin.
Flavonoids (primarily hesperidin): these compounds provide antioxidant protection (UVA protection) and a brightening effect (anti-tyrosinase) thus anti-spot.
Vitamins, sugars (mainly vitamins C and B, sucrose and glucose): these active ingredients provide revitalizing and hydrating benefits.
Due to its composition, grapefruit extract seamlessly integrates into formulas designed for combination to oily skin types, acting as a sebum regulator and thus preventing new acne outbreaks, pore blockages, and the formation of blackheads. This extract can also assist skins with a lot of pigmentation (sun spots, melasma, acne marks), by making them less visible and evening out the skin tone.
It is also renowned for helping skin that appears tired and dull to look more radiant, fresher, brighter, and younger. On mature skin, treatments containing grapefruit extract are appreciated for their brightening properties, their tightening effect, and their ability to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Moreover, by removing the outer layer of dead cells and promoting cell renewal, it facilitates the absorption of other skincare products into the skin.
Pink grapefruit extract, how to use.
As previously discussed, this extract is never applied directly to the skin, but rather diluted in a cosmetic formula at a maximum concentration of 3%.
There are several types of skincare products that contain pink grapefruit extract in their composition (cream, serum, mask, shampoo, hair serum...). However, their use should be reasonable and limited.
It is advisable to use this botanical active during the evening daily routine to limit any risk of photosensitivity due to its high AHA content. Indeed, AHAs increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun, thus the risk of sunburn. We also recommend consistently applying a SPF cream every morning and also to limit or even avoid prolonged sun exposure, as long as you are using a product containing pink grapefruit extract and up to a week after its last application.
For pink grapefruit extract to function properly on the skin, it is often combined with other acids such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, citric acid, or mandelic acid. Therefore, it is not uncommon for several of these ingredients to be found in the same formulation. However, this can be too intense for sensitive skin. Always perform a patch test before using a new skincare product containing a high concentration of AHAs..
Pink Grapefruit Extract: In which skincare products can it be found?
The extract of pink grapefruit plays a crucial role in skin health by aiding in exfoliation. It removes dead cells and smooths the skin's surface. It is used to tone the skin, get rid of acne, control oily skin, as well as combat dandruff and stimulate hair growth.
Pink grapefruit extract can be incorporated into numerous skincare products: facial and body exfoliants, creams with regenerative and brightening properties, shower gels, cleansing lotions, toning treatments to combat fatigue, purifying and refreshing masks, shampoos for oily and/or dull hair, and anti-dandruff shampoos and hair treatments.
Pink Grapefruit Extract: What Concentration Should Be Maintained?
Our exfoliating night cream contains the following active ingredients:
5% ofglycolic acid;
5% mandelic acid;
Lavender Extract (INCI name: Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil) ;
Pink grapefruit extract.
This treatment is suitable for individuals with uneven skin tone and/or enlarged pores. It helps to tighten the pores, reduces the presence of blackheads , and restores skin radiance. Composed of 94% naturally derived ingredients, this cream does come with certain contraindications. It is not recommended for pregnant and/or breastfeeding women, as well as those with sensitive skin. It is best to avoid sun exposure during the period of using this treatment.
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