Watermelon Fruit Extract—An Abundant Source for L-Citrulline

L-Citrulline, an amino acid naturally produced in our bodies, promotes healthy blood flow by acting as a precursor to arginine and nitric oxide. It also improves moisture retention and the creation of a healthy oil-to-moisture balance in the skin.

What is L-Citrulline and Citrullus Lantanus?

Citrullus Lantanus is the form of L-Citrulline derived from Watermelon Fruit Extract formulated into eKo’s 24-hour hydrating gel. In fact, Watermelon Fruit Extract is the best food source for L-Citrulline. This amino acid helps create L-Arginine, another amino acid, that in turn creates nitric oxide which promotes healthy blood flow. In general, studies show that L-Citrulline helps promote healthy blood pressure and possibly gives people a more effective workout. In skincare, L-Citrulline has been shown to increase a healthy moisture barrier for the skin and to increase moisture retention

What are the Benefits of Citrulline derived from Watermelon Fruit Extract?

Hydration—Our bodies naturally produce sebum (natural oil) that forms a protective barrier on our skin. As we age, this sebum production decreases, and we are prone to develop dry skin, itchiness, or even inflammation due to external causes like UV damage, chemical substances, and microorganisms. Citrulline has been shown to promote healthy sebum production, supporting the skin’s protective barrier. What’s more, studies have shown that Citrulline aids the cells to take up and retain up to twice the water compared to cells not exposed to Citrulline. Some studies have shown that Citrulline with its long-lasting molecular structure can help moisturize and maintain the skin’s healthy barrier up to 20 hours. 

Collagen catalyst—Collagen, the most abundant protein in our body, provides strength, elasticity, and structure for our skin, bones, muscles, connective tissues, and blood vessels. As our natural production of collagen declines with age, we can experience wrinkles and joint pain. As it is used in skincare, Citrulline doesn’t form collagen directly, but because it increases blood flow to the area, your skin receives the nutrients it needs to boost collagen production. This will lead to more supple and elastic skin, fighting against wrinkles. 

Removal of Impurities within the skin cells—Citrulline is part of the body’s natural waste cycle, removing impurities from the cells and surrounding fluids. As such, products containing Citrullus Lantanus can promote healthy skin cells by removing impurities, making room for nutrients to be processed. This action aids the skin’s healthy barrier and general condition. 

Anti-inflammatory—Studies are showing that Citrulline is an effective anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative ingredient. It provides soothing to relieve discomfort as well as help repair inflammation due to sun exposure. 

When is the best time to use a skincare that contains L-Citruline?

Because Citrulline is so effective at hydration, people should use a moisturizer like eKo’s 24-hour hydrating gel daily after cleansing the skin and applying serums but before using sunscreen and makeup. Remember that Citrulline supports the formation of the skin’s natural healthy barrier to outside environmental factors, so using it in the morning is a good idea. Apply sunscreen on top of the moisturizer if prolonged sun exposure is expected.

For people who experience dry skin, a moisturizer containing Citrulline is safe to use both morning and evening. 

Conclusion

Watermelon Fruit Extract is the best plant source for L-Citrulline, an amino acid that boosts skin hydration, pliability, and comfort. Citrulline promotes healthy cell functions and boosts blood flow, which in turn helps cells receive the nutrients they need for growth and collagen production. Using a moisturizer like eKo’s 24-hour hydrating gel daily will increase moisture levels and create glowing, healthy skin without greasiness.