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PhytoEx Lemon

Natural Botanical Extract for Skin Brightening and Conditioning

INCI Name: Water, 1,2-Hexanediol, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract

PhytoEx Lemon is a standardized botanical extract derived from the fruit of Citrus Limon. Rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C, and natural alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), this active ingredient provides skin conditioning, brightening, and clarifying benefits. It helps to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, refine pores, and impart a healthy, radiant glow, making it a versatile addition to a wide range of cosmetic and skincare products.

Solubility Notes:

Water-soluble; add to the water phase of formulations.

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Perfect For These Applications

Other cosmetic uses possible—contact us for formulation guidance.

  • Brightening Serums
    Helps to reduce the appearance of dark spots and promotes a more even, radiant skin tone in targeted facial treatments.
  • Clarifying Toners
    Provides mild astringent and exfoliating properties to help tighten pores and refresh the skin in daily toning lotions.
  • Face Creams & Moisturizers
    Adds antioxidant benefits and improves skin radiance in daily-use hydrating and anti-aging creams.
  • Exfoliating Treatments
    Contains natural citric acid to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin in masks and peels.
  • Body Lotions
    Conditions and brightens the skin, helping to even out skin tone on the body for a luminous finish.
  • Hair & Scalp Care
    Use in hair rinses and scalp treatments to enhance shine, clarify the scalp, and help remove product buildup.

Performance & Formulation Insights for PhytoEx Lemon

How PhytoEx Lemon Works

PhytoEx Lemon harnesses bioactive compounds from Citrus Limon (Lemon) fruit to deliver multi-functional skincare benefits. Its performance is driven by Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and citric acid. Vitamin C provides antioxidant protection against environmental stressors and supports a brighter, more even complexion by helping to inhibit tyrosinase activity in the melanogenesis pathway. Citric acid, a natural AHA, gently exfoliates by loosening corneocyte cohesion, promoting smoother skin texture, clarified pores, and enhanced radiance—making it suitable for anti-aging and blemish-prone formulations alike.

Formulation Guidelines

PhytoEx Lemon is water-soluble and integrates easily into the aqueous phase of emulsions, gels, serums, and other water-based systems. For best results, add during the cool-down phase at temperatures below 40°C (104°F) to preserve its natural actives. It is stable within a skin-friendly pH range of 4.0–7.0, with recommended usage levels of 1–5%. The extract is compatible with common cosmetic actives including hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and other botanical extracts, enabling synergistic brightening and conditioning formulas.

Key Formulation Benefits

  • Natural Brightening: Improves the appearance of uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation for a more radiant complexion.
  • Gentle Exfoliation: Citric acid (AHA) helps smooth texture and refine the look of pores without harsh irritation.
  • Antioxidant Protection: Rich in Vitamin C and flavonoids to help defend against free radical damage.
  • Skin Conditioning: Leaves skin feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed.
  • Versatile Application: Ideal for serums, toners, cleansers, masks, body care, and more.
  • Easy to Formulate: Water-soluble liquid for straightforward incorporation into diverse cosmetic bases.
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Benefits
AHA/BHA/PHA Acids, Antioxidants, Brightening & Skin Lightening, Even Skin Tone, Exfoliants
INCI Name
Water, 1,2-Hexanediol, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract
Usage Rate
1%-5%
Active Type
Botanical Extracts & Phytoactives, Other Botanical Extracts
Solubility
Water-Soluble
Application Area
Body, Face, Hair, Scalp
Physical Form
Liquid/Solution
Certifications
Cruelty-Free, Non-GMO, Vegan

Frequently Asked Questions About PhytoEx Lemon

The typical recommended usage rate is 1% to 5% of the total formulation weight, depending on the desired benefit and product type.
PhytoEx Lemon is naturally rich in Vitamin C, which helps to inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase involved in melanin production. This action helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and promotes a more even skin tone.
While generally well-tolerated, lemon extract contains natural acids. Patch-test final formulations and consider using 1–2% in products intended for sensitive skin.
Yes. It can be combined with other AHAs or BHAs. Monitor total acid concentration and final pH to minimize the risk of irritation.
For stability and efficacy, formulate within pH 4.0 to 7.0.
The INCI (Water, 1,2-Hexanediol, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract) indicates 1,2-Hexanediol is part of the solvent system and provides self-preserving properties that support extract stability.

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PhytoEx Lemon

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