Desert lime

Antioxidant0.5–3%

A tiny, tangy outback lime rich in vitamin C, used in fresh-scented face and body products for a brighter look.

What it is

Desert lime is a small, hardy citrus native to semi-arid inland Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia. Its extract brings a fresh citrus character to serums, mists and body washes.

Good for

Dull skinRadianceAntioxidant care

How it works

Desert lime contains vitamin C (University of Queensland work reported more than six times the level in Tahitian lime) plus flavonoids such as rutin and naringin. These antioxidants and mild fruit acids could support a fresher, brighter-looking complexion. No published study has tested the extract on skin.

Ratings

Evidence

1/5

Composition and lab antioxidant data only, with no skin studies.

Gentleness

4/5

Generally well tolerated, though acidic extracts may tingle.

Formulation difficulty

2/5

Glycerin–water extract whose vitamin C fades with heat and air.

Cost

3/5

Mid-priced, as supply is small.

Popularity

2/5

Niche, used by Australian natural brands and a mass-market wash.

Pairs and cautions

Pairs well with

In a routine. Pairing in one formula depends on matching pH windows.

Take care with

High-pH basesSpeed vitamin C loss

Formulations it suits

Serum Toner, essence and face mist Body wash Lotion

Packaging

Regional considerations

Australia	The species is not on the EPBC exempt list, but extract from Plant Breeder's Rights or cultivated-only varieties is; other material needs an export permit from an approved source. Confirm AICIS status.
China	Not in China's IECIC, so it is a new ingredient there and must be notified to NMPA, with three years of annual safety reporting, before products using it can be sold in China.
European Union	Listed in CosIng as Citrus Glauca Fruit Extract, with no EU restriction or labelling requirement of its own.

In the lab

Specifications

Typical use level

0.5–3%0525%

pH window

pH 3.5–5.52 acid7 neutral10 alkaline

Solubility

Water-soluble

Sensitive to

OxygenLightHeatHigh pH

Serums, mists and toners use 0.5–3% as a fresh, vitamin C-rich fruit extract; follow the supplier's data sheet for its grade.

INCI	Citrus Glauca Fruit Extract
Also known as	Wild lime, Outback lime, Citrus glauca
Origin	plant-derived

Lab notes

Solubility and phase

Water phase, as a glycerin–water extract.

Stability

Add below 40 °C and limit air exposure in processing and pack. Supplier grades come preserved with sorbate and benzoate or unpreserved to order.

Regulatory, Australia

Cosmetic ingredient in Australia, so confirm AICIS Inventory status with the supplier, who lists CAS 1174331-62-4.

Claims to take care with

Honest claims include 'with Australian desert lime', 'fresh, zesty' and 'from a fruit naturally rich in vitamin C'. Vitamin C content claims for the product need testing, and 'reduces pigmentation' is therapeutic (TGA).