Lime
Lime is a fresh, zesty citrus ingredient used in UK skincare and haircare for its brightening and cleansing properties. Rich in natural acids and antioxidants, it helps to refresh the skin and scalp while delivering a clean, invigorating scent. It is commonly found in cleansers, toners, masks and hair products.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, lime extract and lime essential oil work as natural astringents and mild exfoliants thanks to their citric acid content. The ingredient helps to remove excess oil, refine the appearance of pores and impart a healthy glow, while its antioxidant compounds protect against environmental stressors. Lime also adds a distinctive fresh fragrance to formulations and is valued for its ability to clarify both skin and hair without stripping natural moisture when used at appropriate levels.
Key benefits
- Brightens and refreshes dull-looking skin
- Helps balance oiliness and refine pores
- Provides a mild exfoliating effect for smoother texture
- Delivers a clean, invigorating citrus scent
- Antioxidant properties help shield against environmental damage
- Clarifies the scalp and adds shine to hair
Best for
oily skin, combination skin, dull skin, acne-prone skin
Where it comes from
Lime is the fruit of the Citrus aurantiifolia tree, a small evergreen plant native to Southeast Asia and widely cultivated in tropical regions. The juice, peel and essential oil used in cosmetics are all derived from the fresh fruit.