Sweet, Sweet Citrus 

Oh the humble orange; sweet sunshine citrus packed with skin loving benefits, just waiting for you to discover them. At Wild Sage, we're all about using every single part of our food wherever possible, whether it be fruit, veggies, coffee grounds or egg shells, and orange peel is no different.

So before you chuck your skins into the compost take a moment to remember that this piece of fruit has the power to do far more than just give your body a boost of vitamin C. With a little herbal know-how and a lot of love, it can brighten, smooth + nourish your skin too ...

A Quick Dive Into Oranges 

Orange peel or extract is the perfect powerhouse for oily or acneic skin. Its anti-bacterial and microbial properties cleanse while the natural texture of Orange Peel Powder works as a gentle exfoliator. Its astringent properties help to tighten pores without stripping the skin of it’s natural oils and the addition of Vitamin C boost helps to stimulate collagen production, fade hyperpigmentation + protect against free radicals. All of these make orange peel natures first line of defence to balance, protect + rejuvenate tired or aging skin, so keep scrolling to learn how you can use it in your daily skincare routine


Why You want Orange Peel in your Skincare Routine

1. Orange Peel works as a Natural Exfoliant (Nature’s Microdermabrasion)

Dried and finely ground, orange peel becomes a gentle exfoliant that sloughs off dead skin cells, clears clogged pores, and brings a healthy glow to your cheeks. 

Mix ground orange peel with honey and a splash of warm water for a quick, sweet-smelling exfoliating mask.

 

2. Orange Peel to Brighten Skin

Rich in vitamin C and natural citric acids, orange peel is a dream for uneven skin tone. It gently fades dark spots and boosts collagen production—think plumper, fresher skin lit-from-within.

We love infusing orange peel into oils to create a skin-brightening potion that works beautifully in serums and facial oils. Think argan, sunflower or almond oil for a light, readily absorbed oil that will leave your skin moisturised, supple and shining

 

3. To Balance Oily Skin Without Drying it Out

Orange peel has natural astringent properties that help to regulate sebum production without drying things out. This makes it the perfect addition to a home made toner, or you can even dab some of the juice (diluted) onto your face, leaving it to dry before rinsing off (do this before your daily moisturiser)

 

4. Your Anti-Acne Ally 

Packed with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory goodness, orange peel is a quiet warrior in the fight against blemishes. It helps reduce swelling, redness, and breakouts in the gentlest, kindest way possible.

For our acne-prone friends, we recommend a calming mask with orange peel, green clay, and a whisper of lavender. Let it sit, breathe, and rinse it all away 

 

5. For The Aromatherapeutic Joy Using Orange Peel In The Wild Sage Kitchen

Last but never least, the scent of orange peel is pure mood magic. Uplifting, fresh, and warm—it’s like bottled laughter. You could try our Winter Blend of Sweet Orange, Lavender + Patchouli either in an essential oil burner or a few drops added to your evening bath.

After all, true skincare is soul care, too.

Using Orange Peel in the Wild Sage Kitchen

Lotion and potions are just one of the many ways you can re-use your citrus peels, which is why drying and grinding is the perfect first step in preserving these curls of sunshine - it keeps it versatile enough to add a pinch to your face mask or to your cooking (just remember to keep those fingers clean to prevent cross contamination). And when the winter months are around the corner, having a stash of this in the larder is the perfect way to keep a pinch of vitamin C (and summer sun) to hand whenever the colder nights seem a little too long

But before you can turn your orange peel into golden dust for masks, scrubs and infusions, it must first be dried with care. Drying is a quiet ritual—a way to preserve the sun’s energy and the fruit’s fragrant oils. And the best part? You don’t need any fancy kit. Whether you’re drying by the warmth of the Aga, in the summer sun, or the hum of a dehumidifier—we’ve got you covered.

How to Make Your Own Orange Peel Powder for Skincare

 

🍊 On the Aga – Or in the Oven

If you’ve got an Aga, Rayburn, or a gently humming oven, you’re already halfway there. That slow, steady heat is perfect for drawing out moisture without burning away the good stuff.

How to:

          Slice your orange peel into thin strips or little squares—roughly 1–2 inches. Lay them out on baking parchment or a clean tray—no stacking!

          Pop them into the warming oven, or onto the back plate of your Aga if you’re lucky enough to have one.

           Let them dry for 2–3 hours, checking every so often. They should be crisp, curled,    and fragrant.

Avoid high temperatures. We want slow and low—not scorched and sad. The lower the temp, the more essential oils are preserved.

 

🌞 In the Summer Sun – The Slow, Sacred Way

This is our favourite. There’s something beautifully old-world about drying peel in the window—watching it curl and crisp while the bees buzz outside. If the sun’s shining, let nature do the work.

How to:

          Spread your orange peels on a clean tea towel, muslin cloth or baking paper.

          Choose a sunny, well-ventilated windowsill or table (bonus points if there’s a soft                breeze).

          Flip them once a day and let them sunbathe for 2–4 days, depending on humidity.

          When they snap cleanly between your fingers, they’re done.
 

Plus Your kitchen will smell incredible

 

💨 Using a Dehydrator – For the Rainy Days

Not every day is sun-soaked here in the UK. And that’s where your trusty dehydrator comes in. It’s gentle, quiet, and effective—perfect for drying peels when the weather’s feeling a bit, well, British.

How to:

          Place your peels on a drying rack, mesh tray, or paper towel before popping them in

          Make sure they’re in a single layer with good airflow.

          Leave them for 24–48 hours, depending on your room's humidity level.

          When crisp and curlable, store them away.

This method works brilliantly if you’re drying big batches to fill your pantry.

 

🌿 Storing Your Dried Orange Peel

Once dried, your orange peels are ready to be powdered, infused, or added whole to your blends.

           Store in an airtight jar (glass is best).

           Label it with the date—because you’re basically a botanical apothecary now.

           Keep it in a cool, dark cupboard, far from sunlight and steam.

They’ll keep for up to 6 months, though if you’re like us… they’ll be gone far sooner ..

And that’s it! A simple, beautiful ritual to bring citrus joy into your home and onto your skin.

Let us know how you dry yours—or tag us when you make your own orange peel magic. We love seeing your handmade creations

With zest and love,
The Wild Sage + Co Family 🌞🍊🌿