D-Limonene

D-Limonene

• INCI Name: Limonene
• Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₁₆
• CAS Number: 5989-27-5 (D-Limonene)
• Alternate Names:
  • d-Limonene
  • Citrus Terpene
  • Orange Peel Oil Component
  • Orange Terpene
  • Lemonene (common trade misuse)
• Benefits & Uses (Short):
  • Fresh citrus orange/lemon peel aroma
  • Natural solvent for oils, resins, and grease
  • Used in perfumes, cleaners, degreasers, cosmetics, air fresheners
  • Enhances top note freshness in fragrances
  • Acts as eco-friendly solvent alternative in formulations
• How It Works (Short):
  • Works as a highly volatile monoterpene that evaporates quickly, releasing strong citrus aroma
  • Dissolves oily and resinous materials due to its non-polar hydrocarbon structure
  • Improves fragrance top-note brightness and initial impact
  • Helps clean and cut heavy grease in industrial and cosmetic cleaning systems
  • Rapid evaporation contributes to strong but short-lived freshness burst
  • Oxidizes easily in air, which can slightly modify scent profile over time

• What does it smell like? Citrus, orange, fresh, sweet, peely.

  Is it natural? Yes — derived from citrus peel byproducts of juice manufacturing. Biodegradable.

  Does it oxidize? Yes — oxidized limonene is a stronger allergen than fresh. Store sealed, away from light and air.

  Can it be used as a solvent? Yes — dissolves fragrance compounds, oils, and resins. Common in rinse-off and cleaning formulations.

  Is it the same as orange terpene? Essentially yes — D-Limonene is the dominant component of orange peel oil.

  Is L-Limonene the same thing? No — L-Limonene is the mirror isomer, found in pine and mint oils. Smells more turpentine-like.

  Can it cause skin irritation? At high concentrations or when oxidized, yes. Use within recommended limits and with antioxidant stabilizers like BHT or tocopherol.

  What's the typical use level in fragrance? Usually 0.5–5% in finished product. Higher in citrus-forward or cleaning formulations.

  Is it COSMOS authorized? Yes — naturally derived and biodegradable, fully compatible with organic certification.