Key component of rose, palmarosa, and citronella oils; stronger sensitizer than linalool or limonene; restricted in leave-on categories under IFRA; EU Annex III allergen; commonly present at high levels in natural rose extracts
Function & Common Use
Fragrance / Perfuming / Aroma Chemical
Fragrance Materials
Rose, geranium, and citrus perfumes; body lotions, face creams, shampoos, soaps
Natural/Synthetic
Concentration Limits
Declaration required above 0.001% leave-on / 0.01% rinse-off
Declaration threshold: 0.001% leave-on / 0.01% rinse-off (EU Reg 2023/1545); IFRA restriction also applies
None (FEMA GRAS); IFRA-guided
None
Format restriction: EU mandatory declaration when above threshold; IFRA 49th Amendment concentration limits apply in several leave-on categories
Baby restriction: No
Pregnancy: No
IFRA: Yes - IFRA 49th Amendment; Category 4 (body leave-on): 2.6%; Category 1 (fine fragrance): no restriction; Category 5A (face leave-on): 1.5%; rinse-off categories generally higher limits
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Geraniol safe to use in skincare?
Geraniol has a Medium concern rating. Key component of rose, palmarosa, and citronella oils; stronger sensitizer than linalool or limonene; restricted in leave-on categories under IFRA; EU Annex III allergen; commonly present at high levels in natural rose extracts
Is Geraniol allowed in India?
Geraniol is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is Declaration required above 0.001% leave-on / 0.01% rinse-off.
What is Geraniol used for in cosmetics?
Geraniol functions as: Fragrance / Perfuming / Aroma Chemical. It is commonly found in: Rose, geranium, and citrus perfumes; body lotions, face creams, shampoos, soaps.
Can Geraniol cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. Geraniol has an allergen flag (Yes - EU Annex III fragrance allergen). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.
Is Geraniol safe for babies?
Geraniol has baby/child restrictions: No. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
EU Annex: Annex III (fragrance allergen - declaration required)
Identifiers
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