| What is it? | d-Limonene (citrus terpenes) is a natural solvent derived from citrus peels. I mostly use it in cleaning applications. It is a terpenoid hydrocarbon found in many essential oils. It can also be found as an adulterant in low quality essential oils (especially citrus ones). |
| INCI | d-Limonene |
| Appearance | Clear liquid |
| Usage rate | Up to 100%, though that would be a very strong cleaning solvent! Recommendations for incorporation in formulas are typically 20% or less. |
| Texture | Thin, volatile liquid |
| Scent | Citrusy—orange/lemon |
| Approximate Melting Point | -74ºC to to -96.9ºC (-101.2°F to -142.6°F) |
| Solubility | Oil, alcohol |
| Why do we use it in formulations? | d-Limonene is an excellent de-greasing solvent that also adds a fresh, citrusy scent to our products. I have only used it in cleaning products. |
| Do you need it? | It’s great if you intend on making your own cleaning products, but beyond that I wouldn’t bother. |
| Refined or unrefined? | d-Limonene only exists as a refined product. |
| Strengths | Fantastic natural de-greasing solvent that also smells great. |
| Weaknesses | Can degrade/break down some plastics in high concentrations with extended exposure. |
| Alternatives & Substitutions | Citrus essential oils are typically high in d-limonene; sweet orange, grapefruit, clementine, bitter orange, tangerine, and satsuma essential oils can all contain upwards of 90% d-limonene. Those essential oils seem like a reasonable place to start, though they are all likely to be more expensive than isolated d-limonene. Out of those essential oils sweet orange, satsuma, and tangerine are not photosensitizing, so I would likely choose one of those. |
| How to Work with It | Include in the oil phase of your products or solubilize into the water phase. Avoid heating as the flash point is quite low (43–49°C/109–120°F). |
| Storage & Shelf Life | Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, d-limonene should last at least two years. |
| Tips, Tricks, and Quirks | Try solubilizing some d-limonene with vinegar for an excellent cleanser. |
| Recommended starter amount | 100mL (3.3fl oz) |
| Where to Buy it | Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier or Amazon. |
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