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Plant extracts

Grapefruit extract

Also listed as citrus paradisi fruit extract, grapefruit peel extract

A citrus extract used for scent and a 'clarifying' image in shampoos and cleansers. No evidence of a health or hair benefit.

No real evidenceTypical strength: Small amounts for scent

What it is

Grapefruit fruit or peel extract adds fragrance and supports marketing about 'clarifying' or 'volumising'. It is not the same as grapefruit seed extract, which is sold as a preservative.

How strong is the evidence?

No real evidence

No clinical studies support hair or skin benefits of grapefruit extract at cosmetic levels. It is mainly a fragrance and marketing ingredient.

What it's used for, checked

Clarifies or volumises hair

Unproven

Cleansing comes from the shampoo's surfactants.

Who should be careful

  • Citrus extracts contain fragrance allergens such as limonene; people with fragrance allergy may react.
  • Citrus peel oils can make skin more sensitive to sunlight in leave-on products; rinse-off use is not a concern.