Natural aromatic compound with a fresh hay scent. Occurs in sweet clover and tonka beans, on the EU list of 26 allergens.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
EU mandates cosmetic labeling and limits food use. Rarely causes primary irritation, but sensitizes the skin.
Coumarin is a natural aromatic compound, a benzopyrone. Occurs in sweet clover, tonka beans, cinnamon, lavender. Scent – sweet fresh hay. In perfumery and cosmetics – a component of the fragrance composition. Regulatory status. The EU included coumarin in the list of 26 mandatory-declared fragrance allergens under Regulation 1223/2009. Manufacturers must list 'Coumarin' on the label if concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off. From 2026 the EU allergen list has expanded to 80+ entries; coumarin remains on it. Allergy mechanism. Coumarin and its metabolites can trigger allergic contact dermatitis in predisposed patients. According to the European Environmental and Contact Dermatitis Research Group (EECDRG), sensitization is about 0.5-2% in patients suspected of fragrance allergy. Where applied. Perfumery (base of oriental and amber compositions), scented decorative cosmetics, body creams, fragranced hair products, shaving products. In Spain – present in most mass-market perfumes, including niche compositions by Loewe, Carolina Herrera. Safety and controversies. SCCS in 2015 confirmed that coumarin is safe in cosmetics with mandatory declaration. Systemically, high oral doses are hepatotoxic (hence the US food ban), but topical application doesn't reach toxic concentrations. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. No direct ban, but with sensitive skin and a tendency to allergies, avoid. 'Fragrance-free' alternatives are available. Best suited to: healthy skin without a tendency to fragrance allergies. Not for atopy, eczema, or a history of contact dermatitis. When choosing a face cream, check the label for 'Coumarin' – especially with sensitive skin.
Irritation potential
MediumAllergen risk
HighPregnancy
CautionThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora 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.
Coumarin should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Coumarin suits: normal, dry, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
Coumarin has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Coumarin has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
Natural aromatic compound with a fresh hay scent.
Published: · updated:
Suitable for
Use with caution
The INCI name is Coumarin. It may also appear as: 2H-1-Benzopyran-2-One.