What it is
This is a volatile essential oil obtained from the herb and flowering tops of Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as true or English lavender. In cosmetics it is used chiefly for its characteristic floral aroma and as a natural fragrance and masking agent. It is added in small amounts and contributes scent rather than a primary skincare function.
Safety & warnings
Lavender oil naturally contains the fragrance allergens linalool and limonene, which can oxidize over time and become more sensitizing; it is a recognized cause of contact allergy in susceptible individuals and is subject to EU fragrance allergen labeling. People with sensitive or reactive skin and those prone to fragrance allergy should use products containing it with caution and consider patch testing.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; an essential oil typically obtained by steam distillation from the herb and flowering tops of Lavandula angustifolia, an aromatic shrub cultivated extensively in temperate regions.
History
Lavender has been used for its scent in perfumery and personal care for centuries, and true lavender remains one of the most widely used aromatic plants in cosmetics.
Questions everyone asks
Is lavender oil a known allergen?
It contains naturally occurring fragrance allergens such as linalool and limonene and can cause contact allergy in sensitive individuals, especially as the oil oxidizes.
Why is lavender oil in a sunscreen?
It is included as a natural fragrance and masking ingredient to give the product a pleasant scent, not for sun protection.