In our reference data, essential oils is a fragrance ingredient.
Essential oils are volatile, aromatic plant-derived extracts used in skincare for scent and purported antimicrobial or antioxidant properties. They are complex mixtures of terpenes, aldehydes, and other reactive compounds.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Allergic contact dermatitis | Common | A leading cause of fragrance sensitization; components like limonene and linalool oxidize into allergens. |
Skin irritation | Common | Can cause redness, stinging, or burning, especially with citrus and mint oils or in high concentrations. |
Phototoxicity | Uncommon | Furocoumarins in expressed citrus oils (e.g., bergamot) can cause burns and hyperpigmentation with sun exposure. |
Photoallergic reactions | Rare | Light-triggered allergic response distinct from phototoxicity. |
Systemic toxicity or endocrine effects | Very rare | Reported with certain oils (e.g., lavender, tea tree) in case reports, largely with ingestion or heavy topical use. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.