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Citronellol

Worst

Fragrance Synthetic and Natural

No known benefits

Citronellol at a glance

  • Volatile fragrance chemical
  • Extracted from geranium, rose, and other plants
  • Causes skin aggravation when exposed to air

Citronellol description

A volatile fragrance chemical extracted from geranium, rose, and other plants, citronellol has a characteristic grassy, citrus-like scent. Applied to skin, it can cause aggravation when exposed to air. This exposure causes the unstable citronellol molecule to oxidise, which is believed to trigger aggravation on skin.

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Citronellol references

  • 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

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.