Linalool is a naturally occurring monoterpene alcohol found in many essential oils (lavender, coriander, rose, citrus, ylang-ylang, etc.). It has a fresh, floral, sweet, and slightly citrusy scent with woody undertones. In cosmetics it is primarily used as a fragrance component and fixative, contributing to the overall scent profile of perfumes, lotions, shampoos, soaps, deodorants, and household products. It is one of the 26 EU-declared fragrance allergens, requiring mandatory labeling when present above 0.001% in leave-on or 0.01 % in rinse-off products.
Products with LINALOOL
With samples available
Woodland Themes Fragrance Oil
by New Directions Aromatics
- Sustainable option
AFI® TRES LECHES CAKE
by Aromatic Fragrances International
- Sustainable option
White Tea & Ginger Fragrance Oil
by New Directions Aromatics
- Sustainable option
What is LINALOOL used for?
- Perfuming: Provides a soft, floral-citrus note and helps blend and round fragrance compositions. Frequently used in fine fragrances, body mists, deodorants, shampoos, conditioners, creams, lotions, soaps, and candles.
- Masking: Masks or covers unpleasant odors from raw materials or base notes. Common in functional products (cleansers, shampoos, laundry detergents) to improve sensory acceptance.
- Fragrance Fixative (minor): Prolongs scent longevity by stabilizing volatile top notes.
- Skin conditioning (very minor): Contributes mild soothing and emollient effects in leave-on products (not primary function).
Origin
Linalool occurs naturally in over 200 plant species (highest in lavender, coriander, rosewood, ylang-ylang, bergamot, petitgrain, clary sage). In cosmetics it is most often synthetically produced via chemical synthesis from petrochemical precursors (e.g., β-pinene or myrcene) for cost, purity, and consistency. Natural linalool (isolated from essential oils) is also available but more expensive and less common in mass-market products. Both synthetic and natural forms are chemically identical (racemic or enantiomerically enriched).
What does LINALOOL do in a formulation?
DEODORANT|
PERFUMING|
MASKING|
SKIN CONDITIONINGSafety Profile
Linalool is considered safe for cosmetic use per the CIR Expert Panel (safe as used) and EU regulations (Annex III). It is one of the 26 mandatory fragrance allergens, labeling required when above thresholds (0.001% leave-on / 0.01% rinse-off). It has a moderate hazard rating from EWG (typically 4-5) due to potential contact allergy/sensitization (especially in oxidized form or in fragrance-sensitive individuals). It is generally well-tolerated in properly formulated products at typical concentrations (0.1-5%). Patch testing strongly recommended for sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Not classified as carcinogenic or reproductive toxicant for topical use.
LINALOOL alternatives
LINALOOL technical profile
| Property | Values |
| Boiling Point | 198-199°C |
| Melting Point | < -20°C |
| pH | Neutral |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohol, oils, and fragrance solvents |
| Viscosity | Very low (~1-5 mPa·s at 20°C) |