Lavender Oil
Essential oil of narrow-leaved lavender with linalool and linalyl acetate. Popular fragrance with a relaxing aroma; oxidation creates a notable contact allergy risk.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Lavender oil is a frequent cause of positive patch tests for essential oils. Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory skin effects are weakly supported.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Medium
- Allergen risk
- High
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Oily, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive, Dry
About this ingredient
Lavender Oil (Lavandula Angustifolia Oil) is an essential oil from narrow-leaved lavender flowers obtained by steam distillation. Contains linalool (25–38%), linalyl acetate (25–45%), cineole, borneol and about 50 minor terpenoids. Mechanism. The scent acts via the limbic system to produce an anxiolytic effect proven in RCTs for anxiety (Kasper 2010). On skin linalool in vitro suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines, but in the whole oil the allergenic properties outweigh. Where applied. Perfumery, balms, aromatherapy candles, spa products. In dermatology cosmetics serious brands (La Roche-Posay, Avène, Bioderma) avoid lavender oil. Evidence base. Orally (Silexan) RCTs show effect in anxiety. Topically dermatology guidelines (AAD 2024, NICE 2024) do not recommend as a therapeutic ingredient. EU SCCS included linalool and linalyl acetate in the list of 26 mandatory fragrance allergens. Safety. Oxidized forms (open bottle, air contact) carry high risk of allergic contact dermatitis: 5–10% positive patch tests in European dermatology clinics (Sköld 2008). Contraindicated in patients with atopy, rosacea, perioral dermatitis. Controversial point. Cases of prepubertal gynecomastia in boys reported with lavender oil (Henley 2007 NEJM) sparked debate about weak endocrine action with long contact. EU SCCS did not confirm, but FDA recommends restrictions in children. Pregnancy and lactation – avoid. Oral – contraindicated. Topical – limit (do not apply on breast or abdomen). Anxiety alternative – aromatherapy via diffuser, not on skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lavender Oil safe during pregnancy?
Lavender Oil should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Lavender Oil for?
Lavender Oil suits: normal, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Can Lavender Oil irritate the skin?
Lavender Oil has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Can Lavender Oil cause an allergic reaction?
Lavender Oil has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
What is Lavender Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
Essential oil of narrow-leaved lavender with linalool and linalyl acetate.
What's the INCI name for Lavender Oil?
The INCI name is Lavandula Angustifolia Oil. It may also appear as: Lavender Oil.
See Lavender Oil in a product composition right on the store page
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