What it is
Cymbopogon Nardus Oil is the essential oil obtained from citronella grass and is best known for its characteristic citrusy, grassy aroma. In cosmetics it is used at low levels as a natural fragrance and masking agent. It contains aromatic terpene constituents such as citronellal, geraniol, and citronellol that contribute both its scent and its allergen profile.
Safety & warnings
Citronella oil contains constituents that are recognized fragrance allergens, including geraniol, citronellol, and linalool, which must be declared on labels in some regions when present above set thresholds. As an essential oil it can be irritating or sensitizing for fragrance-sensitive or reactive skin, so leave-on products typically use it at low concentrations.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; an essential oil produced by steam distillation of the leaves of citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus).
Questions everyone asks
What is citronella oil used for in skincare?
It is used as a natural fragrance and masking agent to give products an aromatic, citrusy-grassy scent.
Can citronella oil cause skin reactions?
It contains known fragrance allergens such as geraniol and citronellol and may irritate or sensitize fragrance-sensitive skin, so it is used at low levels in leave-on products.