Pink grapefruit extract and hair: what are the effects?

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 called 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, therefore 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 in fact pomelo extract) is a powerful purifying and sanitising ally for the skin. Known by the I.N.C.I. name "Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract", this aqueous extract is obtained by microwave extractionfrom 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 can be incorporated into lotions and creams. Furthermore, this active ingredient can be added to numerous hair cleansing treatments such as shampoos and to serums promoting hair growth. Pink grapefruit extract is suitable for all hair types, particularly for hair prone to dandruff and requiring appropriate cleansing.

The extract of pink grapefruit possesses numerous properties.

• It is renowned for being a natural fortifier of the hair fibre. Thanks to its invigorating virtues, it brings vitality to dull hair. Indeed, the active ingredients it contains deeply strengthen the hair and prevent its fall.

• The extract of pink grapefruit aids in boosting microcirculation. Thanks to its content of vitamins A and C, it helps stimulate hair growth and the health of the follicles. These follicles feed on the nutrients and oxygen from the blood. When the blood flow is sufficient, the hair grows more, gaining thickness and volume.

• It aids your hair and scalp in maintaining their hydration due to its Vitamin E content.

• It is renowned for lightening the hair and enhancing natural highlights. Pink grapefruit extract can be used in certain treatments such as conditioners. Indeed, it makes the hair healthy and shiny without weighing it down.

• It promotes the overall health of the scalp by alleviating dryness and eliminating dandruff. Indeed, this plant extract balances or stabilises the scalp's microbiome due to an imbalance of bacteria and yeasts. Moreover, this active ingredient has moisturising and nourishing properties that keep dandruff at bay.

• Pink grapefruit extract reduces breakage: the antioxidants it contains neutralise free radicals and protect the hair from damage. Furthermore, this active ingredient helps to prevent hair loss as well as greying hair.

• Interestingly, a study has demonstrated the effectiveness of aqueous grapefruit extract in combating head lice in children aged between 2 and 9 years old.

Furthermore, pink grapefruit extract can be beneficial both internally and externally. Indeed, it reduces intestinal inflammation which impacts hair health.

• MEHLHORN H. & al., Efficacy of a grapefruit extract on head lice: A clinical trial. Parasitology Research (2010).