Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Oil

Thymus vulgaris (thyme) oil is a volatile essential oil obtained by steam distillation of the herb. It gives formulas a herbaceous aroma and a brief astringent feel, but its reactive components can raise the risk of sensitization.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
Thyme essential oil with an herbal scent; can be irritating for some.
Category
Fragrance, Skin Conditioning
Type
Essential Oil

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Delivers a brisk, herbaceous scent and a temporarily refreshed, tightened feel on skin. Sensitive users should patch test due to potential reactivity.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used at low levels in cleansers, toners, spot gels, and fragranced moisturizers to provide aroma and a brisk finish in essential-oil-styled products.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Essential oils can provoke irritation or allergic contact dermatitis; keep levels low and patch test, especially on sensitive skin. In the EU, certain constituent fragrance allergens (such as linalool or limonene, when present) require labeling, and formulators typically limit essential-oil levels in leave-on products to reduce sensitization risk.

Is Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Oil a Good Ingredient?

It rates Fair because it provides fragrance and a brief astringent feel, but volatile constituents limit consistent skin benefits and raise sensitization risk. Irritation is more likely at higher concentrations or in leave-on use.

Products with Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Oil

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