A component of sandalwood essential oil. It adds a woody scent; some people may develop contact allergy.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
An essential-oil fragrance component. Possible allergy in sensitive users.
Santalol (INCI Santalol) is the main fragrant component of sandalwood essential oil, an alcohol compound from the sesquiterpene group. In a formula it works as an aromatic ingredient: it gives a soft warm woody scent, which is why it is used in scented cosmetics and products with a sandalwood note. On efficacy, this is an aromatic ingredient, not a skincare active. Sandalwood oil is credited with soothing properties, but in the role of a fragrance santalol's job is the scent, not skin care. There is little serious evidence for a cosmetic action, so it should be treated as a perfumery component. During pregnancy and breastfeeding its topical use in a finished product is systemically negligible, so it can be used. Sensitivity to scents during this period is individual, so go by how you feel. Tolerance needs a caveat. The irritation potential is low, but the allergy risk is medium: like any essential-oil component, santalol can cause contact allergy in predisposed people. Most people have no reaction, but on sensitive and dermatitis-prone skin aromatic sesquiterpenes are better tested in advance.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
ModeratePregnancy
SafeSuitable for
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.
Santalol is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Santalol suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
A component of sandalwood essential oil.
The INCI name is Santalol. It may also appear as: Санталол.
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