Sesquiterpene alcohol with a mild floral scent, a component of neroli and jasmine oils. Listed among the 26 EU fragrance allergens.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Appears on the mandatory label declaration at 0.001%+ in leave-on cosmetics. Positive patch-test frequency is around 0.5–1%.
Farnesol is a sesquiterpene alcohol with a mild floral scent. Found in neroli, jasmine, ylang-ylang, citronella essential oils. Where applied. Perfumery, scented cosmetics, deodorants. On its own shows mild antibacterial action against Corynebacterium and Staphylococcus aureus – appears in deodorant formulas as a "natural" agent. Contact allergy. On the EU list of 26 fragrance allergens. SCCS 2017 rated farnesol as a moderate sensitizer. Patch-test reactions in 0.5-1% of patients with suspected fragrance allergy (Hagvall 2007). Safety. IFRA Restriction: up to 1.2% in finished leave-on skin products. SCCS confirmed safety within these limits. Does not photosensitize. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. No direct teratogenicity data, but avoid in sensitive skin and atopy. Alternatives for allergic patients: fragrance-free and hypoallergenic fragrance.
Irritation potential
MediumAllergen risk
HighPregnancy
CautionFor sensitive skin
Sensitive skin and people with known perfume allergies should avoid products containing farnesol.
Suitable for
Use with caution
The 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.
Farnesol should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Farnesol suits: normal. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Farnesol has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Farnesol has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
Sesquiterpene alcohol with a mild floral scent, a component of neroli and jasmine oils.
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The INCI name is Farnesol.