Pink Grapefruit Extract: How is it used?

Pink 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 referred to as 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 throughmicrowave extraction from 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%.

The aqueous extract of pomelo is composed of the following molecules.

• Alpha-hydroxy acids, AHA (primarily citric acid, tartric and malic): these actives are stimulators of cellular metabolism that provide regenerative, keratolytic, brightening and hydrating benefits to the skin.

• Flavonoids (primarily hesperidin): these compounds provide antioxidant protection (UVA protection) and a brightening effect (anti-tyrosinase), thus anti-spot.

• Vitamins, sugars (mainly vitamins C and B, sucrose and glucose): these active ingredients provide revitalising and hydrating benefits.

Due to its composition, grapefruit extract seamlessly integrates into formulas designed for combination to oily skin as a sebum regulator, thus preventing new acne outbreaks, pore blockages, and the formation of blackheads. This extract can also assist skins with a lot of pigmentation (sun spots, melasma, acne marks), by making them less visible and evening out the skin tone.

It is also renowned for assisting skin that appears tired and dull to look more radiant, fresher, brighter, and younger. On a mature skin, treatments containing grapefruit extract are appreciated for their brightening properties, their tightening effect, and their ability to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Moreover, by removing the outer layer of dead cells and promoting cell renewal, it facilitates the absorption of other skincare products into the skin.