Geraniol – Cosmetic Uses in Fragrance and Personal Care

What Is Geraniol?

Geraniol is a sweet, rose-like fragrancing agent that occurs naturally in a variety of plants and essential oils. It is found in fruits such as apples, cherries, and grapefruit, as well as in bay leaves, citronella oil, ginger, lavender, and the essential oils of geranium and lemon. It can also be produced synthetically.

Cosmetic Applications

Geraniol is primarily used as a fragrance ingredient and is incorporated into a wide range of cosmetic and personal care products, including:

• Perfumes and after-shaves
• Bath and body care products
• Depilatories
• Hair care products
• Lipsticks
• Suncare products

It is particularly useful in fragrance compositions with rose and orange blossom notes.

Fragrance Allergen and Safety

Geraniol is one of the declared fragrance allergens that may be present in essential oils and fragrance materials.

Its safety has been evaluated by the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials Expert Panel (REXPAN), and an International Fragrance Association (IFRA) Standard restricts its use in fragrances because of its potential to cause sensitisation.

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) generally defers the assessment of individual fragrance ingredients to the IFRA programme unless the ingredient has significant uses beyond fragrance.

Ingredient Information

INCI: Geraniol
Function: Fragrance

References

Dweck, Anthony. Handbook of Natural Ingredients (Dweck Books 4) . Dweck Data.