Even as we’re approaching Halloween, there is nothing scary about blood oranges – despite the name! 

At UpCircle, we love upcycling ingredients that would otherwise go to waste, giving them a new lease of life. That’s exactly what we’ve done with blood orange – using it as an ingredient in our Peptide Serum. But we also think it’s important to give you an insight into why we’ve chosen this particular ingredient, and what benefits it can have for your skin. 

All about blood oranges

Blood oranges are a unique variety of sweet oranges (Citrus sinensis) that stand out due to their distinctive reddish flesh, which ranges from deep red to purple, depending on the variety. This colour can be attributed to anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant pigment that is uncommon in other citrus fruits but commonly found in berries. 

Pigmented or blood oranges were once thought to have originated in the Mediterranean area, but it has recently been suggested that they, like navel oranges, are indigenous to China. Blood oranges are hailed not only for their striking appearance but also for their flavour and nutritional benefits.

Mostly cultivated in Italy, there are three main types of blood oranges: 

• Moro: The darkest variety, with deep red flesh and a more intense flavour profile, often described as having a berry-like or raspberry taste.
• Tarocco: Known for its sweet, mild flavour and slightly lighter pigmentation. It is often considered the sweetest of the blood oranges.
• Sanguinello: A Spanish variety that is similar to Moro but slightly less intense in colour and flavour.

Blood orange benefits for skin

1. A great antioxidant 

Free radicals are unstable molecules that are produced naturally in the body, but are highly reactive as a result of one or more unpaired electrons. While they are produced naturally, they can  be introduced as a result of external sources like pollution, UV radiation, and tobacco smoke. The unpaired electrons ‘steal’ an electron from other healthy molecules in a process known as oxidation. 

Excessive free radical activity can lead to oxidative stress and cell damage. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals by donating electrons, which helps to prevent or minimise cell damage. Blood oranges contain anthocyanins, which are potent antioxidants. These compounds help neutralise free radicals and protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage, such as UV rays and pollution.

2. Rich in vitamin C

Similar to many other citrus fruits, blood oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that boosts collagen production. 

Collagen works to help your skin retain its structure and improve skin elasticity. Preserving skin elasticity is what helps to minimise the appearance of loose or sagging skin, helping to keep your skin supple and firm. It also plays a huge role in keeping your skin hydrated, preventing sore, flaky skin. 

Vitamin C can also help to brighten your complexion and reduce dark spots and pigmentation caused by sun exposure.

3. Anti-inflammatory properties

The antioxidants and bioactive compounds in blood oranges have anti-inflammatory effects. This can help soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and assist with conditions like acne and rosacea. These anti-inflammatory properties also make blood oranges beneficial for calming sensitive or reactive skin, which is one of the reasons why we included it in our Water-Based Serum.

4. Hydrating your skin

Blood oranges have a high water content, which helps to keep your skin hydrated with a healthy glow. The vitamin A in blood oranges helps regulate sebum production, which prevents excessive oiliness while still keeping the skin moisturised.

5. UV protection

Some research has suggested that the antioxidants in blood oranges may offer a degree of protection against UV-induced skin damage. It’s important to note that this is never a substitute for a high-quality sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays.

6. Helps to repair your skin

Blood oranges are rich in folic acid (vitamin B9), which is wonderful for supporting skin cell regeneration and repair. This aids in healing wounds, reducing scars, and improving overall skin texture.

Our blood-orange water infused peptide serum

Highly anticipated, our water-based peptide serum is already a big hit! Packed with skin-loving niacinamide and vitamin C, as well as upcycled custard apple, this serum is not only great at hydrating the skin, but it also contains antioxidants to help protect the skin from free radical damage.

Rich in upcycled blood orange water, this serum helps to brighten skin and has regenerative properties that can help heal scars. Our Peptide Serum is recommended for all skin types, even the most sensitive skin, due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. 

How to use: Apply a few drops to your fingertips and massage into the skin. Apply before moisturiser to allow the hydrating properties to fully skin into your skin.