Camphor is an aromatic terpenoid used topically as a counterirritant that produces a cooling sensation and provides mild analgesic, anti-itch, and antimicrobial effects. In skincare it is commonly included in anti-acne, soothing, and cooling formulations.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Skin irritation or burning sensation | Common | Mild stinging, redness, or warmth at the application site, especially on sensitive or broken skin. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Uncommon | Sensitization can cause localized rash, itching, and inflammation. |
Dryness or peeling | Uncommon | May occur with repeated use or in higher concentrations. |
Systemic toxicity from excessive or oral exposure | Rare | Seizures and neurotoxicity reported mainly with ingestion or use on large/broken skin areas, particularly in children. |
Photosensitivity reaction | Very rare | Isolated reports of increased sensitivity to sunlight. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.