Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil
Essential oil from Indian sandalwood. Contains α- and β-santalol – the main aromatic components. In cosmetics found in premium lines for the deep woody fragrance. A contact allergen (on the EU 26-allergen list). Caution with sensitive skin.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Essential oil for fragrance. Contact allergen – santalol on the EU 26-allergen list (IFRA). No RCTs on standalone activity.
- 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
- Moderate
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal
- Use with caution
- Sensitive, Dry
About this ingredient
Sandalwood essential oil (Santalum Album Oil) is a volatile fraction obtained by steam distillation of the heartwood of old Indian sandalwood Santalum album trees. The main aromatic components are α-santalol (50-60%) and β-santalol (20-25%) – diterpene alcohols with a deep woody scent. Where applied. In premium perfumery and niche aromatic lines for face and body (0.1-1%), in shaving products (after-shave balms), in massage oils. On the Spanish market – in the premium segment, in Loewe, Carolina Herrera, in niche aromatic lines. Sourcing controversy. Indian sandalwood Santalum album is an endangered species (CITES Appendix II). Wild Indian populations are depleted, raw material export is restricted. Some products contain Australian sandalwood Santalum spicatum or West Indian Amyris balsamifera – with a similar but not identical aromatic profile. Ethical consumption of real Indian sandalwood is a problem. Evidence base. Few topical clinical studies in humans. In vitro α-santalol shows anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity (Burdock 2008). On skin the main function is olfactory. Safety. α- and β-Santalols are on the EU 26-allergen mandatory disclosure list (Regulation EC 1223/2009). A contact sensitizer; with repeated use sensitization is possible. People with known sandalwood perfume allergy – contraindicated. Sensitive skin and rosacea – not suitable. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. Aromatherapy guidelines recommend avoiding concentrated essential oil in the first trimester. At moderate cosmetic concentrations (<0.5%) in finished formulas from the second-third trimester it is acceptable. In lactation – avoid on breast skin and nipples.
Frequently asked questions
Is Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil safe during pregnancy?
Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil for?
Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil suits: normal. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Can Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil irritate the skin?
Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
What is Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
Essential oil from Indian sandalwood.
What's the INCI name for Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil?
The INCI name is Santalum Album Oil. It may also appear as: Sandalwood Oil.
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