Tangerine Oil

What Is Tangerine Oil?

Tangerine oil is a naturally derived essential oil extracted from the peel of tangerines (Citrus reticulata). It is typically obtained through cold pressing, a process that preserves its bright, sweet, and slightly floral citrus aroma. Compared to other citrus oils, tangerine oil has a softer, fruitier scent with lower acidity, making it a popular ingredient in flavors, fragrances, personal care products, and wellness applications.

Rich in d-Limonene, γ-Terpinene, and myrcene, tangerine oil is known for its calming aroma, natural antioxidant properties, and gentle cleansing effects. Its mild and uplifting fragrance makes it an excellent alternative to stronger citrus oils like lemon or grapefruit, particularly in skincare, aromatherapy, and delicate fragrance formulations.

Applications of Tangerine Oil

Flavor and Beverage Industry

Tangerine oil is widely used in the food and beverage industry for its sweet, juicy citrus flavor with mild floral undertones. It enhances:

• Beverages such as fruit juices, flavored teas, soft drinks, and cocktails with a natural tangerine essence
• Confections and desserts where it adds a bright citrus note to candies, chocolates, and baked goods
• Savory sauces and marinades that require a subtle, sweet citrus flavor
• Nutritional and wellness formulations where it contributes to natural flavoring in health supplements and functional beverages

Due to its soft citrus profile, tangerine oil provides a more delicate alternative to orange oil, making it ideal for premium, clean-label food and beverage formulations.

Fragrance and Aromatherapy

Tangerine oil is highly valued in fragrances, personal care, and aromatherapy for its sweet, uplifting aroma. It is commonly found in:

• Perfumes and colognes where it serves as a bright, citrus top note with a soft, fruity twist
• Body lotions and skincare products to provide a refreshing yet delicate scent
• Essential oil blends and aromatherapy formulations known for their calming and mood-enhancing properties
• Home air fresheners and candles that create a warm, relaxing citrus ambiance

Unlike sharper citrus oils, tangerine oil has a gentle, soothing fragrance, making it especially popular for wellness and relaxation-focused products.

Personal Care and Cosmetics

Tangerine oil’s mild astringent and antioxidant properties make it a sought-after ingredient in skincare, haircare, and personal hygiene products. It is commonly used in:

• Facial cleansers and toners to help refresh and brighten the skin
• Shampoos and hair treatments where it adds a soft citrus scent while supporting scalp health
• Body washes and soaps for a mild, refreshing citrus aroma
• Natural deodorants and personal care sprays to provide a light, fruity freshness

With its skin-friendly properties and soothing scent, tangerine oil is well-suited for sensitive skin formulations and gentle beauty products.

Cleaning and Household Products

Tangerine oil is used in natural cleaning formulations due to its pleasant fragrance and mild degreasing properties. It appears in:

• Surface sprays and all-purpose cleaners for a clean, citrus-infused scent
• Dish soaps and detergents where it provides a fresh yet non-harsh aroma
• Fabric sprays and laundry detergents to naturally refresh linens and clothing
• Aromatherapy diffusers and home fresheners to create a warm, inviting citrus environment

While not as strong as lemon or grapefruit oil in degreasing power, tangerine oil excels in fragrance-forward cleaning products that focus on a mild and pleasant user experience.

Key Benefits of Tangerine Oil

Sweet and Fruity Citrus Aroma

Unlike other citrus oils that have sharp or tart notes, tangerine oil features a naturally sweet and mildly floral fragrance, making it perfect for fragrances, personal care, and aromatherapy.

Gentle and Skin-Friendly

Tangerine oil has mild astringent properties but is gentler on the skin than lemon or grapefruit oils, making it suitable for sensitive skin care and baby care formulations.

Naturally Derived and Clean-Label

Extracted from cold-pressed tangerine peels, tangerine oil is a 100% natural, minimally processed ingredient, ideal for clean-label beauty and wellness products.

Mood-Boosting and Relaxing

Due to its soft citrus scent with calming effects, tangerine oil is widely used in aromatherapy to reduce stress, uplift mood, and promote relaxation.

Versatile Across Industries

Tangerine oil is used in food, fragrance, personal care, cleaning, and aromatherapy applications, making it one of the most versatile and sought-after citrus oils for gentle yet effective formulations.