Cinnamomum Camphora (Camphor) Bark Oil

Cinnamomum camphora (camphor) bark oil is a volatile essential oil distilled from camphor tree bark. It's used in perfumery and scented cosmetics for a sharp, camphoraceous note, with strength and allergen concerns requiring low, controlled dosing.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A camphor bark oil used for scent; strong, so use cautiously.
Category
Fragrance
Type
Essential Oil

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Delivers a crisp, penetrating smell that leaves products smelling freshly cleared. Because it’s strong, those with reactive skin should use it cautiously.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Typically included at low levels in perfumes, balms, and body washes to provide a brisk top note.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

May cause irritation or sensitization, especially on reactive skin; use in low dilution and avoid the eye area. Use levels are often restricted by industry standards (e.g., IFRA) depending on product type.

Is Cinnamomum Camphora (Camphor) Bark Oil a Good Ingredient?

It delivers a crisp, penetrating aroma but is potent and more likely to irritate or sensitize skin if not kept to low, well-diluted levels. Benefits are mainly olfactory, so the risk-to-reward favors conservative use. That combination of thin evidence and irritation potential is why it rates Fair, not Good.