What it is
Eucalyptus Citriodora Oil is the volatile essential oil obtained from the leaves of the lemon eucalyptus tree, with a fresh, lemony, citronella-like aroma driven largely by citronellal. In cosmetic and sunscreen products it is used as a fragrance and masking ingredient to provide scent. It is added at low levels and does not act as a UV filter.
Safety & warnings
As a citronellal-rich essential oil it can be a source of fragrance sensitivity and may cause irritation or allergic reactions in predisposed individuals, particularly if oxidized; the oil and its citronellal and citronellol constituents are associated with fragrance allergy. Note this is the perfumery oil and not the refined, standardized insect-repellent active sometimes derived from the same plant. It is not classed as a comedogenic oil.
Origin & sourcing
A natural essential oil produced by steam distillation of the leaves of Corymbia citriodora (formerly Eucalyptus citriodora).
Questions everyone asks
Why is lemon eucalyptus oil in sunscreen?
It is used in small amounts as a fragrance and masking ingredient to give the product a fresh, citrusy scent.
Can it cause sensitivity?
Yes. As a fragrant essential oil rich in citronellal, it may trigger irritation or allergy in fragrance-sensitive skin, so patch testing is wise.