Skincare Ingredient
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Citronellol
In Skincare: Is Citronellol Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
Citronellol is a volatile fragrance chemical commonly used in perfumes and cosmetic formulations.
- 02
This ingredient, citronellol, is extracted from sources including geranium, rose, and other plants.
- 03
Exposure to air may cause skin aggravation with citronellol.
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Data & Research
Scientific Facts
Common Uses
Formulation in Citronellol
Role of Citronellol
Active Cosmetic Mechanisms
PERFUMING
Fragrance ProviderProvides fragrance to enhance product appeal
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Perfuming ingredients add pleasant scents through complex mixtures of natural essential oils, aroma chemicals, and synthetic compounds. These volatile molecules evaporate and interact with olfactory receptors. Perfume construction uses top notes (citrus, herbs - high volatility), middle notes (floral, spice - moderate volatility), and base notes (woods, musks - low volatility) creating evolving scent profile. Must consider stability, allergen declaration, and IFRA compliance.
Products
containing Citronellol
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References
Scientific sources
Food and Chemical Toxicology, August 2022, ePublication
Contact Dermatitis, November 2020, pages 372-379
Dermatitis, August 2019, pages 268-271
Contact Dermatitis, June 2014, pages 329-339
Similar Ingredients
Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Citronellol — common questions
What is Citronellol in skincare?
Citronellol is a colorless, oily liquid with a floral scent often described as resembling rose. It’s commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products such as aftershave lotions, bath products, bubble baths, cleansing products, hair care products, lipsticks, moisturizers, perfumes, and colognes, as well as skin care products.
What does Citronellol do? / Functions of Citronellol?
Common functions: PERFUMING.
What is the comedogenic rating of Citronellol? / Is Citronellol comedogenic?
The comedogenic rating of Citronellol has not been established in our database.
Does it clog pores?
Whether Citronellol clogs pores depends on the formulation and concentration.
Is Citronellol safe for skin?
Citronellol has a safety rating of 3 out of 5. A rating of 3 indicates moderate safety considerations. Note: Fragrance allergen (EU-listed); can cause skin irritation/sensitization especially in leave-on products or sensitive skin; generally safe at low concentrations per fragrance safety standards. The Cosm
Is Citronellol good for sensitive skin?
Citronellol has an irritancy rating of 4 out of 5. A rating of 4 means it has high irritation potential.
What are the side effects of Citronellol in skincare?
Known considerations: Fragrance allergen (EU-listed); can cause skin irritation/sensitization especially in leave-on products or sensitive skin; generally safe at low concentrations per fragrance safety standards. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluated citronellol and concluded it is safe as used in cosmetics, provided it is not a primary sensitizing agent. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) notes that it may cause allergic reactions in some individuals and recommends caution in formulations intended for frequent or prolonged skin contact. Additional risks: skin irritation (irritancy rating 4/5).