In our reference data, Lavender Oil can feed Malassezia (fungal acne).
Lavender oil is an essential oil derived from Lavandula species, used in skincare primarily as a fragrance and for purported soothing or antimicrobial properties. Its actual therapeutic benefit in topical formulations is limited and not strongly supported by clinical evidence.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Common | Linalool and linalyl acetate oxidize on air exposure, becoming potent sensitizers. |
| Skin irritation | Uncommon | Redness, stinging or burning, especially with undiluted or high concentrations. |
| Photosensitivity | Rare | Occasional reports; less photosensitizing than citrus oils. |
| Endocrine-related effects (prepubertal gynecomastia) | Very rare | Isolated case reports suggesting possible estrogenic/antiandrogenic activity; causality debated. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.