Is linalool safe in skincare?

For most people, yes at the levels used in finished products, but linalool oxidizes on exposure to air into hydroperoxides that patch-test studies find are clinically relevant allergens in a meaningful share of dermatitis patients. It is one of the EU's labelled fragrance allergens for that reason.

Does linalool go bad in a bottle?

It can. Older or poorly stored fragranced products let linalool oxidize, raising the allergen load in the product over time. Well-formulated products add antioxidants to slow this.

fragrance

Linalool

Watch if sensitive·Moderate evidence

A floral fragrance component and one of the EU-labelled fragrance allergens. Usually fine, worth watching if you react to scented products.

Worth knowing

EU-labelled fragrance allergen

Questions

Is linalool safe in skincare?: For most people, yes at the levels used in finished products, but linalool oxidizes on exposure to air into hydroperoxides that patch-test studies find are clinically relevant allergens in a meaningful share of dermatitis patients. It is one of the EU's labelled fragrance allergens for that reason.
Does linalool go bad in a bottle?: It can. Older or poorly stored fragranced products let linalool oxidize, raising the allergen load in the product over time. Well-formulated products add antioxidants to slow this.

Products with Linalool

In our guides

References

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.