What it is
Juniperus virginiana wood oil is the volatile oil distilled from the wood of the eastern red cedar, despite the common name it is botanically a juniper. It is rich in sesquiterpenes such as cedrol and cedrene and contributes a warm, woody, balsamic scent. In sunscreens and sprays it is used chiefly as a natural fragrance or scent-masking component.
Safety & warnings
As an aromatic essential oil, cedarwood oil is used at low levels for scent and can be a source of skin sensitization in susceptible individuals. Its terpene constituents may oxidize on air exposure, which can increase irritancy potential. People with fragrance-sensitive or reactive skin may wish to patch test products that contain it.
Origin & sourcing
Plant-derived. It is obtained by steam distillation of the wood of Juniperus virginiana, the eastern red cedar (Virginia cedarwood).
Questions everyone asks
Is Virginia cedarwood oil actually from a cedar tree?
No. Despite the common name, Juniperus virginiana is a juniper; the oil is distilled from its aromatic wood.
Why is cedarwood oil in a sunscreen?
It is used mainly as a natural fragrance or scent-masking ingredient, giving a warm, woody aroma rather than providing sun protection.