Natural terpene alcohol with a floral scent, a component of lavender, basil and bergamot oils. Listed among the 26 EU fragrance allergens.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
European patch-test centres report up to 7% positive reactions to linalool hydroperoxides. Listed separately on labels at 0.001%+ in leave-on products.
Linalool is a monoterpene alcohol with a floral scent. Natural component of essential oils from lavender (25–45%), coriander (60–70%), basil, bergamot, and rosewood. In cosmetics used as part of fragrance composition or as a standalone aromatic. Mechanism. The compound itself is inactive on skin – it is a scent profile component. Like limonene, it oxidizes in air to form hydroperoxides (linalool-7-hydroperoxide), which become the actual contact allergens. Oxidation accelerates with oxygen and light contact, so the product 'ages' 6–12 months after opening. Where applied. Creams, lotions, shampoos, shower gels, soaps, perfumery. The EU lists linalool among 26 mandatory fragrance allergens: above 0.001% in leave-on and 0.01% in rinse-off, the manufacturer must declare it. Allergenicity evidence base. Patch testing with oxidized linalool gives positive reactions in 5–7% of patients with suspected contact allergy (Audrain 2014, Christensson 2010). In eczema patients – up to 10–12%. Fresh linalool yields almost no positive reactions. 'Lavender cosmetics' controversy. Natural brands position lavender products as 'calming' and 'hypoallergenic', but lavender is one of the main sources of linalool in cosmetics. Paradoxically, the 'hypoallergenic' product becomes a frequent cause of contact dermatitis. Who should avoid it. Atopic dermatitis, rosacea, fragrance contact dermatitis, sensitive facial skin. Suitable fragrance-free lines: La Roche-Posay Toleriane, Avène Tolerance Control, CeraVe, Eucerin UltraSensitive. In pregnancy and lactation, use topically with caution; oral use (lavender oil supplements) is not recommended because effects on the fetus are unstudied.
Irritation potential
MediumAllergen risk
HighPregnancy
CautionFor sensitive skin
Oxidized linalool forms frequently cause contact dermatitis. Sensitive skin and eczema patients should avoid it.
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.
Linalool should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Linalool suits: normal. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Linalool has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Linalool has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
Natural terpene alcohol with a floral scent, a component of lavender, basil and bergamot oils.
Published: · updated:
Suitable for
Use with caution
The INCI name is Linalool.