Snapshot
- Overview
- A rosy fragrance ingredient with little direct skin benefit.
- Category
- Fragrance
- Type
- Fragrance
Citronellol
Citronellol is a fragrant terpene alcohol found in rose and geranium oils or made synthetically for perfumery. In cosmetics it supplies a fresh, rosy note, but it's a listed fragrance allergen subject to low-use thresholds in some regions.
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Our take
Is Citronellol a Good Ingredient?
Provides scent without meaningful skin benefits and is a known allergen that can provoke irritation or sensitization, limiting its value in skincare. Little upside and real risk keep it at Poor.
What it does
Skin Benefits
Adds a fresh, rosy scent to strengthen the sensory experience, but offers little direct skincare benefit and can trigger sensitivity in some people.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
Common in perfumes, scented creams, body lotions, and hair conditioners to provide a floral note at very low levels.
Before you use it
Safety
Recognized fragrance allergen that can cause irritation or allergic contact dermatitis, especially on sensitive skin. The EU requires allergen labeling above low thresholds, and IFRA sets category‑specific limits.
Products with Citronellol
