Linalool

Concerns

Allergen

What is Linalool?

Linalool is an acyclic monoterpene tertiary alcohol, chemically 3,7-dimethylocta-1,6-dien-3-ol, abundant in essential oils from plants like lavender, bergamot, coriander seeds, and citrus peels. It constitutes a major component in many botanical extracts, often comprising 20-50% of lavender oil. In cosmetics and personal care items such as perfumes, lotions, shampoos, and deodorants, linalool acts as a key volatile fragrance agent. Its low boiling point allows it to evaporate readily, imparting characteristic fresh, floral, citrus, or woody notes that shape product scent profiles. Additionally, it neutralizes off-odors from base ingredients and disrupts microbial activity linked to body malodor, enhancing overall sensory appeal without altering product texture or stability.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 3 View on EWG →

PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Fragrance ingredient

Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).

Deodorant

Helps control body odor by reducing odor-causing bacteria and/or neutralizing or masking malodor, without necessarily reducing sweat production.

Masking

Reduces perception of unpleasant odors or tastes by neutralizing them or covering them with more acceptable sensory notes.

Benefits

Adds appealing natural scents like floral or citrus to enhance user experience

Masks unpleasant odors from other formula components

Supports deodorant action by limiting bacterial odor generation

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
Users enjoying scented personal care products	People with sensitive or reactive skin
Individuals seeking natural fragrance alternatives	Individuals allergic to fragrances
Those without fragrance sensitivities needing odor control	Those with history of contact dermatitis

Safety Notes

Recognized as a potential skin sensitizer requiring label disclosure in regulated regions
Patch testing advised before widespread use on skin

Frequently Asked Questions about Linalool

What is linalool used for in skincare?

Primarily as a fragrance ingredient to provide scent and mask odors, plus deodorant support.

Is linalool natural?

Yes, derived from essential oils of plants like lavender and citrus.

Why avoid linalool on sensitive skin?

It can trigger allergic reactions or irritation in fragrance-sensitive individuals.