Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil
Clary sage essential oil. Contains linalool and linalyl acetate – on the EU 26-allergen list (IFRA). Used for fragrance in body and hair care. Avoid during pregnancy (phytoestrogen potential of sclareol). Not suitable for sensitive skin or rosacea.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Essential oil for fragrance. Linalool – one of the top 5 EU contact allergens (Yazar 2011). Sclareol has a phytoestrogen effect, avoid during pregnancy.
- Yazar K et al. Fragrance contact allergens in 5588 cosmetic products. Contact Dermatitis 2011;64(5):265-272. PMID 21138445
How to read tiers A–F
- DNo data, or very weak or conflicting data
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Medium
- Allergen risk
- High
- Pregnancy
- Avoid
- Suitable for
- Normal
- Use with caution
- Sensitive, Dry
About this ingredient
Clary sage essential oil (Salvia Sclarea Oil) is a volatile fraction obtained by steam distillation of clary sage flowering tops and leaves. A concentrated product – linalyl acetate up to 75% of composition, linalool 20-30%, sclareol in trace amounts. Not to be confused with clary sage extract – the essential oil has substantially higher activity and allergenicity. Where applied. In aromatherapy and perfumery. In skincare – in niche body and hair products with aromatherapy positioning, in relaxation massage oils, in aroma diffuser products (0.1-1%). In Spanish mass brands rarely seen due to the allergen profile. Evidence base. Aromatherapy studies (Seol 2013, n=22, inhalation) showed a weak sedative effect and blood pressure reduction. For topical cosmetic use evidence is absent – all skin effects reduce to scent and irritation risk. Safety. Linalool and linalyl acetate – both on the EU 26-allergen mandatory disclosure list (Regulation EC 1223/2009). Clary sage essential oils are known contact sensitizers. Oxidation in air increases allergenicity (linalool hydroperoxides are strong sensitizers). Not suitable for sensitive skin, rosacea, atopics. Estrogenic activity controversy. Unlike cosmetic extract, concentrated essential oil contains more sclareol and on systemic absorption (through inhalation, through skin during massage) may exert weak estrogen-like effect. Patients with hormone-dependent tumors should avoid. Pregnancy – avoid. By consensus of international aromatherapy associations (NAHA, IFPA) clary sage essential oil is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential uterine tone stimulation. In lactation also avoid. Safer alternatives for relaxation – lavender oil (in small concentrations), frankincense oil.
Frequently asked questions
Is Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil safe during pregnancy?
Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil is not recommended during pregnancy. Consider an alternative from the same category.
What skin types is Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil for?
Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil suits: normal. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Can Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil irritate the skin?
Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Can Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil cause an allergic reaction?
Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
What is Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
Clary sage essential oil.
What's the INCI name for Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil?
The INCI name is Salvia Sclarea Oil. It may also appear as: Clary Sage Oil.
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