Terpene alcohol with a rose scent, a component of rose and geranium oils. Listed among the 26 mandatory EU fragrance allergens.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
European patch-test centres report 1–2% positive reactions to citronellol. Required on labels at 0.001%+ in leave-on cosmetics.
Citronellol is a natural terpene alcohol with a light rosy scent. Found in rose essential oil (15-40%), geranium (15-25%), citronella, bergamot. In cosmetics – a popular fragrance component with a floral rose-citrus note. Sourced from essential oils or synthetically. Where applied. Perfumes (floral, chypre, oriental compositions), creams, lotions, shower gels, shampoos, hygiene products, mosquito repellents (natural DEET alternative). Concentration 0.001-0.5%. In Spain – in Carolina Herrera, Loewe, Adolfo Domínguez perfumery. Allergenicity. Listed in the EU 2003 mandatory 26-fragrance allergens (Regulation 1223/2009). At leave-on >0.001% or rinse-off >0.01% – manufacturer must label "Citronellol". Evidence base. Positive patch-test reactions in 1-2% of the European general population (Diepgen 2016), lower than citral and cinnamal. In fragrance-dermatitis patients – up to 8-10%. Cross-reactivity with citral, geraniol, lemon oil. Safety. SCCS in 2012 concluded: citronellol is safe at <0.1% in leave-on and <0.5% in rinse-off products. On damaged skin systemic absorption rises. Do not use in fragrance contact allergy. Additional use. Citronellol is a natural mosquito and insect repellent. Used at 5-10% in plant-based repellents. Effect weaker than DEET (10-15% vs 90-95% for DEET), but safer in children and pregnancy. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. Topically at cosmetic concentrations safe for the fetus. Contact-sensitization risk in the pregnant patient is unchanged. As a repellent at 5-10% – safer in pregnancy than DEET (CDC and AAP still rank DEET first-line). Suitable for. Healthy adult skin without fragrance sensitivity. Atopics, eczema, fragrance-dermatitis patients – avoid. Children under 2 – do not apply to face and hands (eye- and mouth-contact risk).
Irritation potential
MediumAllergen risk
HighPregnancy
CautionFor sensitive skin
Oxidized citronellol forms are a common cause of contact dermatitis among perfume users. Sensitive skin should avoid it.
Suitable for
Use with caution
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Citronellol should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Citronellol suits: normal. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Citronellol has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Citronellol has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
Terpene alcohol with a rose scent, a component of rose and geranium oils.
The INCI name is Citronellol.
Published: · updated: