What it is
Nerolidol is a sesquiterpene alcohol with a mild, woody-floral aroma found in the essential oils of many plants, including neroli, jasmine, and ginger. In cosmetic formulations it is used chiefly as a fragrance component to contribute scent and round out aroma blends. It is one of the constituents that can appear in natural essential oils as well as being supplied in purified form.
Safety & warnings
Nerolidol is a recognized fragrance allergen and can cause contact sensitization or irritation in susceptible individuals. It is one of the fragrance constituents flagged in cosmetic labeling, so people with fragrance sensitivity or reactive skin should be aware of its presence and may wish to patch test.
Origin & sourcing
Occurs naturally in the essential oils of numerous plants such as neroli and jasmine; the cosmetic ingredient may be plant-derived or produced synthetically.
Questions everyone asks
Why is nerolidol added to products?
It is used as a fragrance ingredient, contributing a mild woody-floral scent and helping round out aroma blends.
Is nerolidol an allergen?
Yes, it is a recognized fragrance allergen that can cause sensitization in some people, so those with fragrance sensitivity should take note of it on labels.