What it is
Amyris balsamifera bark oil is a viscous essential oil obtained from the wood and bark of the amyris tree, valued for its soft, woody, faintly sandalwood-like aroma. It is sometimes called West Indian sandalwood oil although it is botanically unrelated to true sandalwood. In sunscreens it is used in small amounts as a fragrance or to round out a scent.
Safety & warnings
As a terpene-containing essential oil, amyris oil can cause contact sensitization in fragrance-sensitive individuals, and like other essential oils it may oxidize over time. Those with reactive skin or known fragrance allergies may prefer fragrance-free products.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; produced by steam distillation of the wood and bark of Amyris balsamifera, native to Central America and the Caribbean.
Questions everyone asks
Is amyris oil the same as sandalwood?
No; it is sometimes called West Indian sandalwood for its similar woody scent, but it comes from a different, unrelated tree.
Why is it added to sunscreen?
It is used as a natural fragrance ingredient to scent the product or smooth out its overall aroma.