Linalool
Natural terpene alcohol with a floral scent, a component of lavender, basil and bergamot oils. Listed among the 26 EU fragrance allergens.
Evidence by route
Topical application
European patch-test centres report up to 7% positive reactions to linalool hydroperoxides. Listed separately on labels at 0.001%+ in leave-on products.
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
- Use with caution
- Sensitive, Dry
For sensitive skin
Oxidized linalool forms frequently cause contact dermatitis. Sensitive skin and eczema patients should avoid it.
About this ingredient
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.
Frequently asked questions
Is Linalool safe during pregnancy?
Linalool should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Linalool for?
Linalool suits: normal. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Can Linalool irritate the skin?
Linalool has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Can Linalool cause an allergic reaction?
Linalool has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
What is Linalool and what does it do in cosmetics?
Natural terpene alcohol with a floral scent, a component of lavender, basil and bergamot oils.
What's the INCI name for Linalool?
The INCI name is Linalool.
See Linalool in a product composition right on the store page
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.
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